Naoshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea is famous for its modern art museums, architecture, and sculptures. Part of Kagawa Prefecture, the island with its Mediterranean atmosphere, sandy beaches, and sunny weather, combined with a laid-back, rural feel is a relaxing getaway from Japan’s large urban areas such as Tokyo and Osaka.
Where technology makes you speedy, up-to-the-minute, and all-over-the-place, Naoshima calms, grounds and slows you so that you feel as if you’ve stepped into a meditative shrine.
Naoshima Island may be small, but it is full of curiosities to tickle the mind. Years ago, artists & residents breathed life back into its abandoned buildings and began carving creations from their wildest imaginings. The result? Beaches speckled in sculptures, houses erupting art from every orifice, and intriguing walk-through exhibits in unexpected places.
How did Naoshima transition from a remote island to a unique art destination ?
Naoshima Island, the “Art Island” of Japan, stands as a testament to visionary transformation. This small island in the Seto Inland Sea has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, evolving from a struggling fishing community to a thriving center of art and culture. The driving force behind this change was an art-loving Japanese businessman whose vision and dedication turned Naoshima into a global art destination.
The island’s stunning natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for its world-class art installations and museums, which seamlessly blend art and architecture in a breathtakingly beautiful way. Thanks in large part to this visionary initiative, Naoshima has gradually become one of the world’s most unique destinations for art lovers and travelers seeking one-of-a-kind experiences.
From the iconic Yellow Pumpkin to the stunning Chichu Art Museum, Naoshima Island is a must-visit destination for those seeking an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Art on Naoshima Island
There is so much to see and explore that you won’t want to miss out on. First of all, let’s talk about the major art installations on the island. One of the most iconic installations is the Yellow Pumpkin, by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. This sculpture has become an emblem of Naoshima Island, and it’s easy to see why. Its bright yellow color contrasts beautifully with the blue ocean and sky.
The Benesse Art Site Naoshima
But the Yellow Pumpkin is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to art on Naoshima Island. The island is home to the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, which is a series of art installations across the island. The Benesse Art Site is a collaboration between the Benesse Corporation and the architect Tadao Ando, and it’s one of the most ambitious art projects in Japan. The Benesse Art Site features a variety of art installations and museums, including the Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum, and the Benesse House Museum.
The Chichu Art Museum is one of the highlights of the Benesse Art Site. This museum was designed by Tadao Ando, and it’s built directly into the hillside. The museum features artwork by Claude Monet, Walter De Maria, and James Turrell, among others. The Lee Ufan Museum is another must-visit destination for art lovers. This museum features the work of Lee Ufan, a Korean artist who has lived in Japan since the 1950s. The museum is located in a beautiful garden, and the artwork is displayed in a way that is meant to evoke a sense of harmony with nature.
Other notable art museums and galleries on Naoshima Island
Aside from the Benesse Art Site, there are also other notable art museums and galleries on Naoshima Island. The Ando Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Tadao Ando, and it’s a great place to learn more about the architect who helped shape the island’s art scene. There’s also the Art House Project, which features a series of traditional Japanese houses that have been converted into art galleries. Each house features a different artist, so it’s a great way to experience a variety of artwork in one place.
Discovering the Neighboring Art Islands: Teshima and Inujima
If you’re exploring Japan‘s renowned art islands, Teshima and Inujima are two captivating destinations you won’t want to miss. These islands are each rich with unique attractions and artistic marvels, enhancing any cultural itinerary.
Teshima: A Serene Artistic Escape
Located approximately 30 minutes by ferry from Naoshima, Teshima offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s made for reflection and exploration. The island’s main draw is the mesmerizing Teshima Art Museum. Designed by renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa and artist Rei Naito, this structure mimics a water droplet and is an experience in its own right.
Visitors can also discover Christian Boltanski’s poignant “Les Archives du Cœur” and the colorful Teshima Yokoo House. While transportation on the island is somewhat limited—ferries and shuttles don’t run frequently—electric bicycles or scooters offer a flexible and efficient way to explore Teshima‘s hilly terrain. It’s wise to rent in advance to ensure a hassle-free visit.
How to Travel to and Explore Teshima
Getting to Teshima:
Reaching Teshima can present a few challenges due to limited transportation options. The island is primarily accessible by ferry, with scheduled trips that vary throughout the day. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s important to check the latest ferry schedules in advance. Both public and private operators provide these ferry services, so make sure to do a little research ahead of your trip to find the option that best fits your itinerary.
Navigating the Island:
Once on the island, consider using electric bicycles or scooters for an efficient and enjoyable way to explore Teshima’s scenic and sometimes steep landscapes. These options allow for flexibility, letting you traverse the island at your own pace without relying solely on public transport, which can be infrequent.
Plan Ahead:
It’s advisable to reserve your electric bike or scooter in advance to avoid any inconvenience, especially during peak travel seasons. By securing your rental ahead of time, you can ensure a seamless experience as you navigate the island.
Utilizing Public Transport:
For those who prefer public transportation, the Teshima Shuttle Bus is available. However, the schedule is limited, requiring some planning and possibly walking to reach various attractions. Since the bus does not cover all areas extensively, combining it with other modes of transport may be necessary for a comprehensive exploration of the island.
Stay Informed:
To make the most of your visit, keep abreast of the latest travel information, including updates on any special events or temporary closures. Checking reliable sources before your trip can provide you with the most current details on what to see and the best ways to get around Teshima.
Inujima: An Intimate Art Oasis
Inujima, smaller and more secluded, is about 40 minutes by ferry from Naoshima. Alternatively, a brief 10-minute ferry ride from the mainland at Hoden will bring you here. Unlike its busier counterparts, Inujima offers a more intimate setting for art lovers.
Explore the innovative Seirensho Art Museum and participate in the island’s own “Art House Project,” which takes art beyond traditional gallery spaces. The Seaside Inujima Gallery is another must-visit spot. Once you arrive, the island is easily navigated on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the serene environment at their own pace.
Whether you choose to embrace the artistic treasures of Teshima or the quiet charm of Inujima, each island offers a unique glimpse into Japan‘s vibrant art culture. These neighboring art havens promise an enriching escape and unforgettable experiences for all who travel there.
The island of Inujima is a charming destination that offers several unique attractions for art enthusiasts. Among its highlights is the Seirensho Art Museum, which stands out with its innovative installations and intriguing history. Additionally, visitors can explore the Art House Project, a captivating series of abandoned houses transformed into art spaces. For those interested in modern exhibitions, the Seaside Inujima Gallery offers an inspiring experience.
Getting to Inujima is simple: a ferry ride from Naoshima takes about forty minutes, while a trip from the mainland port of Hoden is a quick ten minutes. Once on the island, exploring on foot is easy due to its compact size, allowing visitors to leisurely wander from one attraction to the next.
Getting to Naoshima – Where to stay on Naoshima Island?
Let’s talk about accommodations on Naoshima Island. There are some amazing places to stay that will make your trip even more memorable. One of the most popular places to stay is the Benesse House Hotel. This hotel is part of the Benesse Art Site, and it’s a work of art in its own right. The hotel was designed by Tadao Ando, and it’s built into the hillside overlooking the sea.
One of the great things about staying at the Benesse House Hotel is that you get access to the entire Benesse Art Site. This means you can explore the art installations and museums at your leisure, and you don’t have to worry about missing anything. Plus, the hotel has its own private beach, so you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Guests at Benesse House also enjoy special early-morning and late-night access to the museum, providing a unique opportunity to experience art without the usual crowds. The hotel boasts additional amenities, including a spa, two exquisite restaurants offering Japanese and French cuisine, and a convenient shuttle service to Naoshima’s other art sites.
If you’re seeking budget-friendly options, Naoshima offers traditional minshuku (Japanese guesthouses) and yurts, providing a more economical yet authentic Japanese experience. These accommodations are perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture without breaking the bank.
The Naoshima Camping Ground is a great choice if you’re looking to get back to nature. You can rent a tent or bring your own, and the camping ground is located right by the sea. There are also several guesthouses and traditional Japanese inns on the island, which offer a more authentic Japanese experience.
The island’s art scene is one of a kind, and staying at the Benesse House Hotel is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the experience. So why not plan your trip today and discover all that Naoshima Island has to offer?
When is the Best Time to Visit Naoshima, and What Should You Consider?
When planning your trip to Naoshima, timing is key to making the most of your experience. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth visit.
Choosing the Right Day
- Exhibit Closures: Most art installations on Naoshima are closed on Mondays. However, if a Monday falls during a holiday weekend, exhibits usually remain open that day and close on Tuesday instead.
- Neighboring Islands: If you plan to explore Teshima or Inujima as well, remember that their exhibits typically close on Tuesday. Align your itinerary accordingly to avoid missing out.
Duration of Stay
- Day Trip vs. Extended Stay: While a day trip to Naoshima is feasible, it may be too hurried to fully appreciate the island’s unique art offerings. For a more relaxed experience, consider spending one or two nights on the island. This allows you to explore at your own pace and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Additional Tips
- Calendar Check: Always check an art site calendar online for the most up-to-date information on exhibit schedules and special events. This can help you avoid unexpected closures.
- Seasonal Considerations: Thoughtfully plan your visit around weather conditions and seasonal events, which can enhance your experience on Naoshima.
By carefully planning your visit around these factors, you can ensure a rewarding and memorable trip to this remarkable art island. Enjoy the blend of nature and creativity that makes Naoshima truly unique.
Getting to Naoshima Island
It’s actually pretty easy to get there, and there are a few transportation options depending on where you’re coming from. If you’re coming from Tokyo or Osaka, the easiest way to get to Naoshima Island is by taking a train to Okayama Station. From there, you can take a ferry to the island. The ferry ride takes about 20-30 minutes, and it’s a scenic trip across the Seto Inland Sea.
Getting around the island
Once you’re on the island, getting around is pretty easy too. There are buses that run regularly between the major art installations and museums, so you can easily hop on and off as you please. You can also rent a bike or an electric bike if you prefer to explore the island on your own. The island is fairly small, so you can easily see everything in a day or two.
If you’re staying at the Benesse House Hotel, they also offer a shuttle service that will take you around the island. This is a great option if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything and you want to travel in comfort.
Overall, getting to and around Naoshima Island is pretty easy, and it’s definitely worth the trip. The island is a hidden gem that is still relatively unknown to tourists, so you’ll be able to enjoy the art installations and museums without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. So why not plan a trip today and discover all that Naoshima Island has to offer?
Exploring Naoshima Island
One of the best ways to explore the island is by taking a bike ride or a walk. You can rent a bike from one of the rental shops on the island.
Another popular attraction on the island is the Art House Project. This is a series of art installations that are located throughout the town of Honmura. The installations are housed in traditional Japanese houses, and they are designed to interact with the surrounding environment.
If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the island, you can also try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. There are several rental shops on the island that offer these activities. It’s a great way to see the island from a different perspective.
Finally, if you’re interested in the history and culture of the island, you can visit the Naoshima Folklore Museum. This museum is housed in a traditional Japanese house, it features exhibits on the history and culture of Naoshima Island.
View from the Benesse House
Top places to see in Naoshima:
- Chichu Art Museum – The museum building, designed by Ando Tadao and itself a work of art, is mostly located underground. It solely utilizes natural light to illuminate the artwork. This creates a viewing experience that is heavily influenced by the surrounding natural environment. The museum houses a small but impressive collection of works by artists including Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria.
- The Benesse House – The Benesse House is a modern art museum and resort hotel. The complex consists of four buildings: the Museum, Oval, Park, and Beach, all designed by Ando Tadao. Each building features its own unique artwork and guest rooms. The main attraction of the Benesse House is its modern art museum. This museum displays work created by many different artists from both Japan and abroad, including renowned figures such as Hiroshi Sugimoto, Gerhard Richter, Shinro Ohtake, Richard Long, and David Hockney. These works are inspired by the natural surroundings of Naoshima and the architecture on the island. Overnight guests staying at the Museum and Oval buildings can enjoy 24-hour access to the museum, immersing themselves in the diverse and captivating art collection that spans various styles and mediums. Whether you’re drawn to photography, abstract paintings, or site-specific installations, the Benesse House offers a rich tapestry of art that enchants and inspires.
- Art House Project – Charming little village turned into a modern art destination. The Art Houses are a collection of abandoned houses and workshops. As well as a temple and a shrine – that have been converted into venues and art installations for artists from Japan and around the world.
- Naoshima Bath “I♥YU” – kitschy and wonderful, a fitting way to end the day is with a soak here after a full day of enjoying art. Time and energy permitting, this bathhouse offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Designed by Shinro Ohtake, “I♥YU” stands out with its colorful and artistic ambiance, providing a one-of-a-kind experience that is both visually and culturally enriching. As you soak, you’ll find yourself surrounded by artistic elements that make this bathhouse more than just a place to unwind. It’s a true embodiment of Naoshima‘s artistic spirit. Remember, you might need to bring your own towel and soap, although these essentials are usually available for purchase at the front desk.
Other Activities on Naoshima Island
Naoshima Island offers much more than just art. You can rent bicycles and explore the island’s stunning landscapes. Cycling around the island is a great way to discover its beauty while enjoying a leisurely ride.
You can also enjoy the sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Among the most popular beaches are Miyanoura Beach and Inkyu Beach, which offer great swimming opportunities and a relaxed atmosphere.
Strolling through the Honmura district is another must-do activity on Naoshima Island. The district is home to the Art House Project, a collection of abandoned houses transformed into art installations. You can stroll through the narrow streets and admire the unique artworks, which include Yayoi Kusama’s “Pumpkin” and James Turrell’s “Minamidera.” In addition to the Art House Project, the Honmura district is also home to several local cafes and shops where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese food and buy souvenirs.
Lastly, watching the sunset at the Naoshima Pavilion is a breathtaking experience. It’s a serene and peaceful way to end the day on Naoshima Island.
Dive deep into Naoshima’s art and artists
Reading about Naoshima and its artists offers a unique opportunity to experience the convergence of contemporary art, architecture, and nature.
- “Naoshima: Art, Architecture, Nature” by Fram Kitagawa. This book is a comprehensive guide to the art installations and museums on Naoshima, including the Benesse Art Site, the Chichu Art Museum, and the Lee Ufan Museum.
- “Yayoi Kusama: From Here to Infinity!” by Sarah Suzuki. This book is a children’s introduction to the life and work of Yayoi Kusama, with colorful illustrations and simple explanations of her artistic concepts and techniques. It is a great way to introduce young readers to the world of contemporary art and the vibrant, playful universe of Kusama’s art.
- “Tadao Ando: Complete Works 1975-2014” by Philip Jodidio. This comprehensive book offers a complete overview of Tadao Ando’s career and features detailed photographs and drawings of his projects. It includes his iconic works on Naoshima, such as the Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House, and the Lee Ufan Museum.
- “The Chichu Art Museum: Tadao Ando Builds for Claude Monet, Walter De Maria and James Turrell” by Tadao Ando. This book focuses specifically on the Chichu Art Museum, one of the most iconic buildings on Naoshima.
- “The Art of Lee Ufan: Marking Infinity” by Lee Ufan. This book offers an in-depth exploration of the work of Lee Ufan, one of the most prominent artists featured on Naoshima.
Book your tickets now and experience the wonder of Naoshima Island!
Naoshima Island is a unique destination that offers a perfect combination of art, nature, and culture. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Naoshima Island has something to offer. So plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of this artistic haven in Japan.