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This is one of Kurashiki's true hidden gems. The Saisou-tei is where local clan leader, Kumata Ataka committed seppuku, which prevented a war from breaking out in the Tamashima area. What makes it so fascinating is that the building has been preserved so that the actual blood stains from the seppuku remain visible on the ceiling; a rare sight. When you enter, you will be given a short tour in Japanese only however, after reading this, you should be able to follow along and see what they are showing you when they point towards the ceiling.
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円通寺 Entsū-ji
Entsuji Temple is famous as the site where the famous poet Priest Ryokan wrote many of his most famous poems. From the temple grounds, there is an impressive view of the factories in the Kojima area (which is quite beautiful, despite how it may sound), as well as the Seto Inland Sea. This temple is also the seventh temple along the Chugoku 33 Kannon Temple Pilgrimage route.
倉敷市屋内水泳センター
An excellent 50-m swimming pool within easy cycling or walking distance of Kurashiki's Bikan historic area, close to the City Office. There's a separate 25-m pool for splashing about in. Like many public pools in Japan, everyone is required to get out of the water for 5 minutes each hour (at this pool, between 25 and 30 minutes past the hour), so check the time before going in if you want an uninterrupted swim.
倉敷市立美術館
Exhibits of work by artists from Kurashiki, with a focus on the renowned painter Yoson Ikeda (1895-1988). The building, designed by Kenzo Tange, is an odd attempt to reinterpret warehouses of the Bikan area in concrete.
大山名人記念館
Yasuharu Oyama (1923-1992), also a Kurashiki native, was an eighteen time champion of shogi; upon his retirement, he was crowned the 15th Lifetime Meijin (Grand Master) of the game.
倉敷市立自然史博物館
Local flora, fauna, insects, and geology; the star attraction is a Naumann's Elephant, a giant prehistoric mammal from southern Japan.
大橋家住宅
If you've had it with ordinary merchants, visit the home of this family of retired samurai who went into business in Kurashiki.