The small Naoshima Island is located in the Inland Sea, and it was a highlight of our time in Japan. Although we didn’t plan on visiting it at first, we decided to do it while we were in Osaka and looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The journey was quite long for a day trip, so we would recommend you stay overnight. However, even after a long and tiring day, we both agreed it was absolutely worth it.
Since the opening of the Benesse House Museum, the island has gone through a revitalization process. Nowadays, it attracts art lovers from all over the place, keen to see its fabulous museums, art installations, and outdoor artworks.
Once you arrive at the island (read our japan itinerary on how to get there), you’ll have plenty of information on how to move around and what to see. As we only had a day to explore Naoshima, we decided to use the town minibus that stops on the main sites. Renting an electric bike can also be an excellent choice, especially with sunny weather.
Sneakpeek Tip: Be aware that on Mondays the museums are closed, and on the rest of the days they are only open until 4 pm/5 pm. Start your day early!
ART house PROJECT
This project turned empty houses spread through the island into extraordinary art installations. Each of them was designed by different artists, and for a small fee, you can buy a combined ticket giving you access to all of them.
Minamidera, created by the artist James Turrell and the architect Tadao Ando, was our personal favorite. Try not to read anything about this immersive experience, or it will spoil the surprise.
CHICHU ART MUSEM
It’s hard to find the words to describe this museum. We don’t consider ourselves as big art enthusiasts, but this is something we’ll remember forever when thinking about Japan. The museum was built mostly underground, so it didn’t affect the natural surroundings – if you see some air pictures of it, you’ll see what we mean! The small art collection has works from James Turrel, Claude Monet’s, and Walter De Maria. Together with the architecture of Tadao Ando, this is truly an outstanding experience.
It’s not allowed to take pictures inside, and you should avoid searching for too much information online – it helps to create a “wow” factor every time you enter into a different room. Take your time and slowly appreciate each space and design. Make sure you don’t leave without checking the outdoor views from the museum cafe.
Sneakpeek tip: We highly recommend you book your tickets online.
naoshima benesse house Museum
We didn’t manage to visit the Benesse House due to time constraints. The complex is actually a combination of a Museum and a Hotel, both designed by Tadao Ando, and nicely integrated into the environment. Besides the three floors that offer contemporary works, you’ll find art installations in scattered and atypical places.
I love yu Bathhouse
Once again, we had to make choices in our single day visit to Naoshima, and we ended up not going to this place. Still, lots of people recommended us this quirky bathhouse as a unique spot to relax and soak up the art. An onsen experience with a funky twist!
Teshima Island
If you have the time, take the 20 minutes ferry journey to Teshima Island. It’s another place full of art, where you’ll find the Teshima Art Museum – it’s supposed to be quite amazing.
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