Guide
Naoshima is a beautiful island floating in the Seto Inland Sea, located in Kagawa Prefecture. While it has a history of industrial development, such as copper smelting, it has now become a world-renowned destination for travelers and artists as an "Art Island." The entire island feels like a massive, open-air museum, with masterpieces of contemporary art and ingenious architecture scattered amidst lush natural scenery. The harmony of the calm Seto Inland Sea, traditional villages, and cutting-edge art offers a sublime creative experience that allows you to escape the pace of daily life.
The island's history is deep, with legends even dating back to the Heian period. During the Edo period, it flourished as a vital point for maritime transport. Even today, the traditional streetscapes of settlements like Miyanoura and Honmura are carefully preserved. While the island developed as an industrial center starting in 1917, the launch of the "Naoshima Project" by Benesse brought a wave of modern artistic renovations. This has established a unique style of island travel where traditional culture and modern sensibilities coexist beautifully.
Naoshima offers numerous sights that will leave visitors in awe. At the gateway of Miyanoura Port, Yayoi Kusama's vibrant "Red Pumpkin" stands as a beloved symbol of the island. The ferry terminal, designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architectural group "SANAA," is characterized by its light, transparent, and airy design. Additionally, the "Naoshima Pavilion" designed by Sou Fujimotoo features a dreamlike design that looks as if it is floating on the sea; its nighttime illumination is particularly enchanting. These artworks and architectural structures integrate seamlessly with the landscape to create truly special spaces.
The best times to visit Naoshima are from March to May or September to November, when the climate is mild and pleasant. Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the art and nature at a relaxed pace. The island's charm also changes depending on the time of day. For example, the Naoshima Pavilion at Miyanoura Port takes on a mystical atmosphere at night when illuminated, looking like a floating island. During the day, you can appreciate the intricate details of the outdoor sculptures and architecture, while at dusk, you can witness the beautiful moment when the art melts into the calm sea.
Exploring Naoshima is more than just sightseeing. An "Art Walk," where you search for hidden artworks while strolling through the island, is a quintessential experience. We also highly recommend renting a bicycle to visit works located along the coast or on the hills. Walking through the old streets of the Honmura district allows you to touch the history of the island through its traditional architecture. Observing the beauty of form and the sense of space in the artworks up close will provide a fresh sense of wonder with every visit.
Naoshima is one of the stages for the "Setouchi Triennale," an art festival involving many islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Neighboring islands such as Teshima and Inujima each possess their own unique artistic charms, and you can enjoy an island-hopping journey via ferry. Access is convenient, with approximately 1 hour by ferry from Takamatsu Port and 20 minutes from Uno Port. This makes it a popular route for travelers using Kagawa or Okayama as their base. Consider planning a journey that explores the many beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea starting from Naoshima.
Preparation is key to a comfortable trip. First, because the island has many slopes and unpaved paths, please wear comfortable walking shoes (such as sneakers). When viewing art, please be extremely careful not to damage the works. Regarding payments, while credit cards are accepted at some ferries and facilities, many small shops, buses, and certain facilities only accept cash (Japanese Yen). We strongly recommend carrying a certain amount of cash with you. While English signage is available, English-speaking staff may be limited, so being prepared with basic communication is helpful. Please check official websites in advance, as some museums and facilities may require advanced reservations.