During the Industrial Revolution, as the world underwent rapid transformation, Japan was also modernizing swiftly, striving to catch up with Western technology. Magosaburo Ohara was born in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, as the second son of a wealthy family. His father founded what is now Kurabo Industries Ltd., a textile manufacturing company.

At the age of 16, in 1897, Magosaburo moved to Tokyo to study at what is now Waseda University. However, instead of focusing on his studies, he indulged in a reckless and extravagant lifestyle with friends. Over four years, he accumulated a debt of 15,000 yen―equivalent to approximately 100 million yen in today’s value.

Following his father’s orders, Magosaburo returned to Kurashiki to reflect on his actions. During this time, Magosaburo had a life-changing encounter that shaped his core belief. He met Juji Ishii, the founder of Japan’s first orphanage, who aimed to provide a better environment for as many children as possible. The orphanage cared for 1,200 children who had lost their parents to natural disasters or war. This encounter deeply moved Magosaburo, making him realize that his wealth was not only for his own benefit but should serve the greater good.

Five years later, Magosaburo succeeded his father as the head of the company, Kurabo. Beyond managing the business, he made significant contributions to improving the lives of his employees. Shocked to learn that many workers had no access to basic education, he established schools for them, one of which is now Kurashiki Commercial High School. He also founded a hospital, now Kurashiki Central Hospital, to ensure better healthcare for his employees and their families. While his executives opposed these initiatives, Magosaburo stood firm in his belief that “all wealth gained from society should be returned to society,” saying, “I can foresee 10 years into the future with my eyes.”

Magosaburo also established scholarships to support young talents, including Torajiro Kojima. He funded Torajiro’s art education, allowing him to study in France. Torajiro developed his own artistic style and gained recognition from European art authorities, becoming the first Japanese member of the Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts (SNBA). Magosaburo also provided funds for Torajiro to purchase Western paintings―not for personal collection but for public benefit and educational purposes. Torajiro acquired works directly from renowned European artists such as Claude Monet. Magosaburo established the Ohara Museum of Art with this collection, which has since become a cultural landmark in Kurashiki City.

2024.11

A Townscape Built on 10 Years into the Future