Naoshima Tours
Naoshima (直島) is a small island in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, renowned for its stunning collection of contemporary art, museums, and outdoor sculptures. Often referred to as "The Art Island," Naoshima is a unique destination where the natural beauty of the island harmonizes with modern art and architecture. It has become a global symbol for contemporary art lovers and travelers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and creativity.
Naoshima, part of Kagawa Prefecture, was once a quiet fishing island until it was transformed into an art paradise in the 1990s. The island's development as an art destination was spearheaded by the Benesse Corporation, with a vision to integrate art, nature, and architecture. Over the years, Naoshima has grown into a cultural hub, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The island features a variety of museums, installations, and outdoor art pieces, many of which were designed by world-famous architects like Tadao Ando. Naoshima's art museums are known for their unique architecture, blending seamlessly with the island's natural landscape.
Benesse House Museum:
Benesse House is a combination of a museum, hotel, and art gallery, designed by Tadao Ando. The museum showcases contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists, with pieces by famous names like Yayoi Kusama, David Hockney, and Richard Long. The surrounding area is dotted with outdoor sculptures, allowing visitors to experience art while enjoying breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Staying at Benesse House Hotel offers an exclusive experience, as you can wander the museum after hours and enjoy the artwork in a quiet, intimate setting.
Chichu Art Museum:
Also designed by Tadao Ando, the Chichu Art Museum (meaning "art museum in the ground") is a unique underground museum that uses natural light to illuminate the artwork. Despite being underground, the museum feels open and bright, thanks to Ando's masterful use of light and space. The museum houses a small but impressive collection of works by Claude Monet, including his famous Water Lilies series, as well as large installations by James Turrell and Walter De Maria. Because of its limited space, advanced reservations are required to visit the museum.
Art House Project:
The Art House Project is a collection of traditional Japanese houses that have been transformed into art installations by various artists. Scattered throughout the Honmura district of Naoshima, each house offers a unique experience, combining contemporary art with traditional architecture.
Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkins:
One of the most recognizable symbols of Naoshima is Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin, located at the edge of a pier near Benesse House. The vivid yellow sculpture, covered with black polka dots, has become an iconic image of the island and a must-see for visitors. It is another famous installation located near Miyanoura Port, welcoming visitors as they arrive on the island. It's large enough to walk inside, making it a fun and interactive piece.
Lee Ufan Museum:
The Lee Ufan Museum is another Tadao Ando-designed building that showcases the work of Korean artist Lee Ufan. The museum offers a quiet and contemplative space where Ufan's minimalist sculptures and paintings are displayed in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Admission Fees:
Benesse House Museum: 1,050 yen
Chichu Art Museum: 2,100 yen (advance reservation required)
Art House Project: 420 yen per house, or a 1,050 yen pass for all houses
Lee Ufan Museum: 1,050 yen
Naoshima Bath: I ♥︎ Yu: 660 yen
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit. The island is especially beautiful with cherry blossoms in bloom.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, and while it can get hot, the sea breeze helps keep temperatures comfortable. Don't miss the Setouchi Triennale, a contemporary art festival held every three years in the summer.
Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time to visit, with cooler weather and stunning fall foliage. It's also less crowded than summer.
Winter (December to February): Winters are mild, but some outdoor installations may be less enjoyable due to colder weather. However, fewer tourists make it a peaceful time to experience the art.
Check Ferry Schedules:
Ferry schedules can vary, especially in the off-season. Be sure to check the ferry timetables in advance, especially if you're planning a day trip.
Naoshima is more than just an island—it's an immersive art experience where contemporary art, nature, and architecture come together in perfect harmony. Whether you're visiting to see the famous Yayoi Kusama pumpkins, explore the underground Chichu Art Museum, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima offers a unique and enriching experience for all types of travelers.
Access: From Okayama: Take the JR Uno Line from Okayama Station to Uno Station (about 1 hour), then take a 20-minute ferry from Uno Port to Miyanoura Port on Naoshima.
From Takamatsu: Take a ferry from Takamatsu Port to Miyanoura Port or Honmura Port on Naoshima (about 50 minutes).
As a tour and limo company, we not only provide transfer service to Naoshima from Osaka, but also provide full-day charter car service. If you need our Osaka Chauffeur Service, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Naoshima (直島) is a small island in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, renowned for its stunning collection of contemporary art, museums, and outdoor sculptures. Often referred to as "The Art Island," Naoshima is a unique destination where the natural beauty of the island harmonizes with modern art and architecture. It has become a global symbol for contemporary art lovers and travelers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and creativity.
Naoshima, part of Kagawa Prefecture, was once a quiet fishing island until it was transformed into an art paradise in the 1990s. The island's development as an art destination was spearheaded by the Benesse Corporation, with a vision to integrate art, nature, and architecture. Over the years, Naoshima has grown into a cultural hub, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The island features a variety of museums, installations, and outdoor art pieces, many of which were designed by world-famous architects like Tadao Ando. Naoshima's art museums are known for their unique architecture, blending seamlessly with the island's natural landscape.
Benesse House Museum:
Benesse House is a combination of a museum, hotel, and art gallery, designed by Tadao Ando. The museum showcases contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists, with pieces by famous names like Yayoi Kusama, David Hockney, and Richard Long. The surrounding area is dotted with outdoor sculptures, allowing visitors to experience art while enjoying breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Staying at Benesse House Hotel offers an exclusive experience, as you can wander the museum after hours and enjoy the artwork in a quiet, intimate setting.
Chichu Art Museum:
Also designed by Tadao Ando, the Chichu Art Museum (meaning "art museum in the ground") is a unique underground museum that uses natural light to illuminate the artwork. Despite being underground, the museum feels open and bright, thanks to Ando's masterful use of light and space. The museum houses a small but impressive collection of works by Claude Monet, including his famous Water Lilies series, as well as large installations by James Turrell and Walter De Maria. Because of its limited space, advanced reservations are required to visit the museum.
Art House Project:
The Art House Project is a collection of traditional Japanese houses that have been transformed into art installations by various artists. Scattered throughout the Honmura district of Naoshima, each house offers a unique experience, combining contemporary art with traditional architecture.
Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkins:
One of the most recognizable symbols of Naoshima is Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin, located at the edge of a pier near Benesse House. The vivid yellow sculpture, covered with black polka dots, has become an iconic image of the island and a must-see for visitors. It is another famous installation located near Miyanoura Port, welcoming visitors as they arrive on the island. It's large enough to walk inside, making it a fun and interactive piece.
Lee Ufan Museum:
The Lee Ufan Museum is another Tadao Ando-designed building that showcases the work of Korean artist Lee Ufan. The museum offers a quiet and contemplative space where Ufan's minimalist sculptures and paintings are displayed in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Admission Fees:
Benesse House Museum: 1,050 yen
Chichu Art Museum: 2,100 yen (advance reservation required)
Art House Project: 420 yen per house, or a 1,050 yen pass for all houses
Lee Ufan Museum: 1,050 yen
Naoshima Bath: I ♥︎ Yu: 660 yen
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit. The island is especially beautiful with cherry blossoms in bloom.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, and while it can get hot, the sea breeze helps keep temperatures comfortable. Don't miss the Setouchi Triennale, a contemporary art festival held every three years in the summer.
Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time to visit, with cooler weather and stunning fall foliage. It's also less crowded than summer.
Winter (December to February): Winters are mild, but some outdoor installations may be less enjoyable due to colder weather. However, fewer tourists make it a peaceful time to experience the art.
Check Ferry Schedules:
Ferry schedules can vary, especially in the off-season. Be sure to check the ferry timetables in advance, especially if you're planning a day trip.
Naoshima is more than just an island—it's an immersive art experience where contemporary art, nature, and architecture come together in perfect harmony. Whether you're visiting to see the famous Yayoi Kusama pumpkins, explore the underground Chichu Art Museum, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima offers a unique and enriching experience for all types of travelers.
Private Chauffeur and Car Services
Location: Naoshima, Kagawa Prefecture, JapanAccess: From Okayama: Take the JR Uno Line from Okayama Station to Uno Station (about 1 hour), then take a 20-minute ferry from Uno Port to Miyanoura Port on Naoshima.
From Takamatsu: Take a ferry from Takamatsu Port to Miyanoura Port or Honmura Port on Naoshima (about 50 minutes).
As a tour and limo company, we not only provide transfer service to Naoshima from Osaka, but also provide full-day charter car service. If you need our Osaka Chauffeur Service, please feel free to contact us at any time.
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