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Ishibashi Cultural Center: A Green Oasis in Kurume

Discover art, culture, and nature at the Ishibashi Cultural Center in Kurume, a vibrant hub donated by Bridgestone founder Shojiro Ishibashi.

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The Ishibashi Cultural Center in Kurume, Fukuoka, is a multifaceted cultural complex featuring art museums, a music hall, a library, and expansive gardens. Founded in 1956 by Shojiro Ishibashi, the founder of Bridgestone Corporation, it offers a blend of art, culture, and natural beauty, making it a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Ishibashi Cultural Center

Local tips

  • Check the Ishibashi Cultural Center's website for event schedules and flower blooming seasons to make the most of your visit.
  • Explore the Japanese garden to see the diverse collection of camellias, recognized as an International Camellia Garden of Excellence.
  • Visit the Kurume City Art Museum and Shojiro Ishibashi Memorial Museum to delve into the region's art and the founder's legacy.
  • Take a relaxing stroll through the rose garden and enjoy the seasonal flower displays throughout the center's grounds.
  • Utilize the free parking available, but be aware that it can get crowded during peak seasons and events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Nishitetsu Kurume Station, take Nishitetsu Bus routes 1, 9, 20, 22, or 25 and get off at the 'Bunka Center Mae' bus stop, which is right in front of the Ishibashi Cultural Center. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes. A single bus fare costs around ¥190-220.

  • Walking

    From Nishitetsu Kurume Station, it is possible to walk to the Ishibashi Cultural Center, but it is not close. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. Head east from the station and follow Route 322 (Bunka Center Dori). The center will be on your left.

  • Car

    From the Kurume Interchange (IC) on the Kyushu Expressway, it takes approximately 10 minutes to reach the Ishibashi Cultural Center by car. Exit the Kurume IC and follow the signs for the cultural center. Free parking is available with 200 spaces, including 4 disabled spaces. Parking is free for the first 30 minutes, ¥200 for up to 2 hours, and ¥100 for every 30 minutes thereafter, with a maximum of ¥1,000 after 24 hours.

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Discover more about Ishibashi Cultural Center

The Ishibashi Cultural Center, located in Kurume, Fukuoka, is a testament to the vision of Shojiro Ishibashi, the founder of Bridgestone Corporation. Donated to the city in 1956, the center has evolved into a vibrant hub for art, culture, and recreation. The center's sprawling grounds encompass a diverse array of attractions, including the Kurume City Art Museum, the Shojiro Ishibashi Memorial Museum, a music hall, and the Kurume City Central Library. The gardens are a highlight, featuring a harmonious blend of Japanese and Western-style landscapes. The Japanese garden, established in 1970, boasts a collection of around 2,000 camellias of approximately 300 cultivars and species, earning it the prestigious International Camellia Garden of Excellence title. The rose garden adds another layer of beauty, with vibrant blooms in season. Throughout the year, seasonal flower beds showcase a variety of floral displays, ensuring there's always something in bloom. The Kurume City Art Museum displays modern Western paintings by artists from Kurume and the broader Kyushu region. Adjacent to the museum, the Shojiro Ishibashi Memorial Museum chronicles the life and achievements of Bridgestone's founder. The Ishibashi Cultural Hall, completed in 1963, is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, making it a sought-after venue for musical performances. Visitors can explore the grounds, relax by the koi pond and fountain, and enjoy refreshments at the café and tea house. The center also hosts various events throughout the year, including flower festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. With its blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty, the Ishibashi Cultural Center offers a rich and rewarding experience for all who visit.

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