Yumiko Igarashi Museum

The Yumiko Igarashi Museum is located in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, within the historic Bikan Historical Quarter. The museum celebrates the work of Yumiko Igarashi, a prominent Japanese manga artist born in Asahikawa, Hokkaido in 1950. The museum opened in Kurashiki specifically because the atmosphere of the Bikan district reminded Igarashi of her hometown in Hokkaido, creating a meaningful connection between the artist and this preserved Edo-period merchant town.

Igarashi is best known for illustrating Candy Candy, the beloved manga series that debuted in April 1975 in collaboration with writer Kyoko Mizuki. The series became a cultural phenomenon in Japan and internationally, winning the 1st Kodansha Manga Award for shōjo manga in 1977. Candy Candy tells the story of an orphan girl navigating life's challenges with optimism, and the series was adapted into an anime by Toei Animation from 1976 to 1979. The museum showcases Igarashi's artistic journey and influence on the manga industry, displaying original artworks, sketches, and various exhibits that highlight her detailed illustration style and contribution to shōjo manga.

Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits on the second floor after purchasing admission tickets. The first floor features a souvenir shop selling exclusive merchandise related to Igarashi's work. A unique attraction is the adjacent Cafe Princess, where guests can wear princess dresses and immerse themselves in the romantic world of Igarashi's manga while enjoying refreshments. Photography opportunities abound, with life-size character cutouts allowing visitors to pose alongside their favorite characters.

To reach the museum, take a local Sanyo Line train to JR Kurashiki Station from Okayama Station (approximately 17 minutes). From Kurashiki Station's south exit, the Bikan Historical Quarter is a 10 to 15-minute walk. The museum is accessible from major cities: from Osaka, the journey takes approximately 75 minutes via shinkansen to Okayama then local train to Kurashiki; from Kyoto, around 125 minutes; and from Hiroshima, about 75 minutes.