Founding and Origins of the Collection
The museum opened in 1979 with a donation of 1,947 ancient Oriental artworks and artifacts from Okayama Gakuen, an educational institution. The collection was assembled by Shinjiro Yasuhara, then chairperson of Okayama Gakuen, under the guidance of Namio Egami, professor emeritus at the University of Tokyo, and Shinji Fukai, a professor at the university’s Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia.
Because the collection was built with expert academic guidance, it contains carefully selected materials that provide a systematic introduction to the art and archaeology of the ancient Orient.
Features and Development of the Museum
Since opening, the museum has continued to expand its collection of ancient Oriental art and has developed into an important center for research on the ancient Orient in western Japan. As of March 2011, its holdings had grown to 4,942 items.
In 2004, to commemorate its 25th anniversary, the museum acquired a valuable Assyrian relief. Prince Takahito of Mikasa also became a special adviser, further strengthening the museum’s role in preserving and promoting knowledge of ancient Oriental civilizations.
What Does “Orient” Mean?
The word “Orient” derives from the Latin word oriens, meaning “the direction of the rising sun” or “the East.” The term was adopted into European languages to describe a broad geographical and cultural region.
In Japan, the Orient generally refers to the vast area between the cultural spheres of China and Europe across Eurasia. Centered on Mesopotamia, in present-day Iraq, this region extends west to Egypt, north to Anatolia in modern-day Turkey, south to the Arabian Peninsula, and east to Afghanistan.
The Museum’s Mission
The Okayama Orient Museum collects and preserves archaeological, artistic, and ethnographic materials related to the Oriental world, from ancient times to the present day. Through research and exhibitions, it introduces visitors to a wide range of topics concerning the region’s history, cultures, and artistic traditions.
By presenting these materials from multiple perspectives, the museum helps visitors discover the diversity and enduring appeal of the civilizations that developed across this extensive region.
Exhibitions and Hands-On Programs
Visitors can do more than simply view the exhibits. The museum also offers a variety of activities designed to make the cultures of the ancient Orient more accessible and engaging.
Interactive Workshops
Hands-on workshops provide opportunities to explore ancient techniques, materials, and cultural traditions through practical activities.
Gallery Talks
Gallery talks offer additional insight into selected exhibits, helping visitors understand the historical background and significance of the objects on display.
Gallery Concerts
Gallery concerts bring music into the museum environment, creating a distinctive experience that combines art, culture, and performance.
Architecture and Building Design
The museum was designed by the Shinichi Okada Architectural and Engineering Office, and construction was completed in 1979. The building has a reinforced-concrete structure with one basement level and three floors above ground.
The site covers 1,786 square meters, while the total floor area is 4,336 square meters. The building has received several architectural awards, including the BCS Award, the Grand Prize in the Cultural Facilities Division of the Public Buildings Award, and the BELCA Award in the Long-Life Building category.
Location
The Okayama Orient Museum is located at 9-37 Tenjinchō, Kita Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture. It is conveniently situated near Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, making it an excellent addition to a sightseeing itinerary in central Okayama.
Highlights from the Collection
Glass Vessels
White Double-Faced Bottle — Syria, Roman period, approximately AD 50–200.
Wide-Mouthed Jar with Rosette-Pattern Handles — Iran, early Islamic period, approximately AD 800–900.
Two-Handled Jar — Iran, late Neo-Elamite period, approximately the 8th–7th century BC.
Handled Jar — Egypt, 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom, approximately 1550–1295 BC.
Bronze Objects and Pottery
Decorative Head of a Deity from a Votive Pin — Luristan region, Iran, Iron Age, approximately 1200–700 BC.
Crescent-Shaped Axe Decorated with Lions — Luristan region, Iran, Late Bronze Age to Iron Age, approximately 1500–700 BC.
Geometrically Painted Handled Jar — Luristan region, Iran, approximately the 9th–8th century BC.
Drum-Shaped Bowl with Goat and Cypress Motifs — Pakistan, Kulli culture, approximately 2200–2000 BC.
Sculpture and Reliefs
Two Female Figures — Syria, Roman–Parthian period, approximately AD 100–300.
Relief of a Winged, Eagle-Headed Spirit — Nimrud, Iraq, Neo-Assyrian period, approximately 875–860 BC.
Fortified City Scene — Swat region, Pakistan, Kushan period, approximately AD 100–200.
Discover the World of Ancient Oriental Civilizations
The Okayama Orient Museum offers a rare opportunity to explore the history, art, and cultures of ancient civilizations across the Middle East and neighboring regions. Its diverse collection, research-based exhibitions, and interactive programs bring these distant worlds to life. Located close to Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, the museum is a rewarding stop for visitors interested in archaeology, history, and the development of human culture.