Benesse House Museum

Overview

Nestled on Naoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture, Benesse House Museum is an innovative fusion of a museum and a hotel, which first opened its doors in 1992. Master architect Tadao Ando conceived the building with the guiding principle of 'the coexistence of nature, architecture, and art,' allowing it to blend seamlessly into the lush natural environment of the Seto Inland Sea. Inside, a rich collection of contemporary art from both Japan and around the world awaits, encompassing everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs and intricate installations. What truly sets this museum apart is how art transcends the gallery walls, extending to the coastline, verdant forests, and even into the very guest rooms of the hotel. As natural light bathes the space, constantly shifting throughout the day, visitors can engage all five senses to experience the unique world woven together by Ando's architecture, the diverse artworks, and the surrounding natural beauty. Take, for example, the Valley Gallery – an introspective space designed to resemble a shrine, yet it allows you to directly feel the natural energies of light and wind. Outside, a plethora of site-specific works, including Yayoi Kusama's iconic 'Pumpkin,' are thoughtfully scattered across the landscape, offering the pure joy of discovering art as you wander. For guests staying at Benesse House, an exclusive program provides the rare opportunity to explore the museum in the tranquil quiet of the night, after regular closing hours. This unparalleled experience, which beautifully embodies Benesse's philosophy of 'well-being,' allows for a profound connection with the artworks in a magical, ethereal atmosphere unlike any other during the day. We warmly invite you to immerse yourself and truly feel the profound emotion of art deeply rooted in the history and soul of the Seto Inland Sea.