Ivy Square Hotel in Kurashiki: Century-Old Buildings Given New Life

Ivy Square Hotel: A Charming Hotel in Okayama

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is one of the must-visit places in Okayama's Kurashiki.

Although most shops close around 6 PM, the romantic scenery of the small bridges and flowing water, illuminated by lights at night, can only be enjoyed during the evening—an exclusive privilege for overnight guests.

This time, MATCHA's editor stayed at the Ivy Square Hotel, which was renovated from a century-old modern building, taking everyone on a leisurely tour to learn the story of Kurashiki.

The Past and Present of Ivy Square Hotel

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

Originally, this complex was the Kurashiki Spinning Mill, built in 1889. In the past, this area was known as the fiber town, with factories producing excellent results using advanced machinery imported from overseas and skilled artisans' techniques.

Due to its significant contribution to Japan's industrial modernization, even though the continuous sound of weaving has ceased, Japan officially designated this site as a Modern Industrial Heritage. It has become a living historical building in Kurashiki.

In the early 1960s, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter lacked sufficient accommodation facilities and dining establishments.

At the request of local residents, it was decided to revitalize the factory, striving to preserve the original factory exterior and basic structure, transforming it into a complex cultural facility that includes lodging, restaurants, banquet halls, and shops—Ivy Square.

Since the location is at the heart of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, just outside the facility is a row of pristine white buildings with small shops. Walking through the alleys, you can see willow trees swaying in the breeze reflected on the tranquil river.

Even non-staying guests can freely enter and leave, making it feel like a local’s backyard garden—an impromptu place to take a walk, relax, and enjoy the changing seasons of flowers and plants.

Stay in a Historic Site: An Environment Rich in Cultural Facilities

Because the facility strives to maintain its original appearance, several areas retain a Western modern atmosphere.

For example, the skylight on the north side of the lobby, which, unlike most Japanese factories, is based on British factory designs and allows abundant natural light. The high ceiling and the geometric patterned floor in black and red reflect the vibrant and lively atmosphere of its era.

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

The spacious courtyard square hosts a seasonal beer garden buffet during summer, where travelers can chat and enjoy a drink while gazing at Kurashiki’s most luxurious night view.

After renovations in February 2019, the large public bath features a semi-circular high wall that allows sunlight to more easily pour into the courtyard, with the colors of the stained glass windows shifting accordingly.

Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy free baths, relaxing in an elegant and comfortable environment.

The Red Brick Bar continues the historic legacy of the hotel’s facilities. Its wooden lattice windows and smoothly designed wooden ceiling create a mature and stable atmosphere.

After dinner, guests can enjoy a drink here and quietly indulge in nostalgic charm.

The ambiance of Tsuta, the main restaurant, still retains the traces of the Meiji-era textile factory.

For example, the handcrafted glass windows, which, due to the manufacturing techniques of the past being less refined, have imperfections such as tilts, textures, and bubbles.

Today, these flaws have become a unique expression of the Meiji era's character.

The restaurant offers exquisite dishes made with local ingredients, including Okayama black pork, Okayama Niimi forest-roasted chicken, and dreamy afternoon tea.

Dining in such a historically rich environment is a truly rare and precious experience.

Breakfast Featuring Local Ingredients

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

The hotel's breakfast is served buffet-style, offering a wide variety of Western and Japanese dishes, many of which use ingredients from Okayama's local specialties.

The rice used is Asahi Rice, which has just the right amount of stickiness and chewiness, with a slight sweetness.

Okayama specialty anago (conger eel) is tender, fresh, and pairs well with rice.

The tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette) can be topped with the original yellow soy sauce from Kurashiki's traditional old house café, Yūrin-an, filling the air with fragrance and flavor.

Rooms that Harmonize Japanese and Western Styles

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

To better meet the needs of guests across a wide age range, the rooms have been redesigned with the warm climate of Okayama’s Sunny Kingdom as the main visual impression. The natural and simple aesthetic is immediately felt upon entering.

This time, our editor stayed in a standard double room. The sloped wooden ceiling makes the space feel more spacious, and the large desk area is perfect for organizing, packing, or writing down travel notes.

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

The economy double room, although without a bathtub, features a separate shower room with a rainfall showerhead, allowing for a full-body soak.

The washbasin is located at the entrance, ensuring that the space does not feel cramped or narrow.

Picture courtesy of Ivy Square Hotel

For those traveling as a group, the family-style room is a great choice.

It features a spacious sofa, a traditional tatami mat room that exudes a distinctive fresh aroma, and the mattress is from a globally renowned brand, ensuring quality sleep for guests.

Popular Photography Spots

Just walking around the facility, you'll notice many people taking photos, as every corner offers perfect shots.

For example, the entrance of Ivy Square has been featured in the popular Japanese drama "The Emperor's Cook" starring Takeru Satoh, as well as in the movie "Ruroni Kenshin."

The ivy-covered, lush wall turns red in autumn, adding a special charm.

The elegant long archway corridor can be a nice spot to sit on a bench for a brief rest, or to browse the nearby souvenir shops, fruit and dessert stands, and wine stalls.

Even on rainy days, you can find cozy spots inside to enjoy and savor.

Don't forget to enjoy the water lily pond beside the courtyard, inspired by the Impressionist master Monet’s former residence. After gifting a few lilies to the Ohara Museum of Art, some were transplanted here as a gesture of friendship and exchange.

Their elegant and charming appearance can only be appreciated through careful nurturing.

Enjoy Your Time at Ivy Square Hotel

Ivy Square Hotel offers more than just accommodations; it plays an important role in combining art and culture with promoting Kurashiki tourism.

Walk into this local’s backyard garden to gain a deeper understanding of the area's past and present. You may find yourself falling even more in love with Kurashiki.

Book a room at Ivy Square Hotel online