Naoshima

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX33
shoyanishikawa from Japan, Wikimedia Commons

Naoshima is an 'art island' in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, offering a unique blend of contemporary art, architectural marvels, and serene natural landscapes.

While not a traditional party destination, Naoshima offers several areas for visitors to socialize. The Naoshima Bath "I♥Yu" is a public bathhouse that functions as an art installation and is designed to foster interaction between tourists and locals. Additionally, Miyanoura town, particularly around the port, serves as a central hub with eateries and accommodations, and the Honmura Lounge and Archive acts as a gathering point for those exploring the Art House Project. For backpackers, Shimacoya, a hostel and book café, provides a social environment.

Top 6 Things to do in Naoshima

Visiting Naoshima involves exploring world-renowned contemporary art museums, engaging with unique outdoor sculptures, and experiencing traditional Japanese art installations within local architecture.

1. Chichu Art Museum

This museum is mostly built underground, ensuring that it harmonizes with the natural landscape. It showcases a select collection of works by artists such as Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. The architecture by Tadao Ando masterfully uses natural light, causing the artworks and the space itself to change in appearance throughout the day and seasons. It is advisable to book tickets online in advance to secure a timed entry slot.

Cost: Admission is ¥2,500 on weekdays when purchased online, and ¥2,800 on-site. On weekends and holidays, online tickets are ¥2,700, and on-site tickets are ¥3,000. Children aged 15 and under receive free admission, but reservations are still required.

Transport: From Miyanoura Port, take the Naoshima Town Bus to Tsutsuji-so (approximately 15 minutes, ¥100). From Tsutsuji-so, a free shuttle bus operates to Chichu Art Museum (approximately 7 minutes). Walking from Tsutsuji-so takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, a bicycle ride from Miyanoura Port takes about 10 minutes, though the route involves moderate hills.

2. Benesse House Museum

Integrated with a hotel, this museum was designed by Tadao Ando and is situated on a hill with views of the Seto Inland Sea. It features a diverse collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations, many of which are site-specific. Artworks extend beyond the galleries into the building's various spaces and along the nearby coastline. The Valley Gallery, opened in 2022, also hosts Yayoi Kusama's 'Narcissus Garden'.

Cost: Online tickets cost ¥1,300, while on-site tickets are ¥1,500. Admission is free for children aged 15 and under, and for guests staying overnight at Benesse House.

Transport: From Tsutsuji-so, a free shuttle bus takes approximately 3 minutes to Benesse House Museum. It is also about a 9-minute walk from Lee Ufan Museum. Guests staying at Benesse House have access to a courtesy bus.

3. Art House Project

Located in the Honmura district, this project transforms abandoned traditional houses and structures into unique art installations. Each house offers a distinct artistic experience, blending contemporary art with the island's historical architecture and community. Visitors typically purchase a multi-site ticket to explore all available houses.

Cost: A multi-site ticket for six art houses (excluding Kinza) costs ¥1,200 when purchased online or ¥1,400 on-site. Single-site tickets are available for ¥600 online or ¥700 on-site. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for specific houses like Kinza and Minamidera due to limited capacity.

Transport: From Miyanoura Port, take the Naoshima Town Bus to Nokyo-mae bus stop in Honmura (approximately 5 minutes, ¥100). The Art House Project sites are within walking distance of this bus stop.

4. Lee Ufan Museum

This museum is dedicated to the works of Lee Ufan, a prominent Korean contemporary artist. The building, designed by Tadao Ando, is partially underground and features large installations made of stone, concrete, and iron, alongside some of Lee Ufan's paintings. The design integrates the art with its natural surroundings, offering a contemplative experience.

Cost: Admission is ¥1,200 when purchased online or ¥1,400 on-site.

Transport: The Lee Ufan Museum is a short 5-minute walk or a 2-minute free shuttle bus ride from Benesse House Museum, and a 5-minute free shuttle bus ride from Tsutsuji-so.

5. Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkins

Naoshima is home to two iconic pumpkin sculptures by Yayoi Kusama. The 'Red Pumpkin' is located at Miyanoura Port and is interactive, allowing visitors to step inside. The 'Yellow Pumpkin', a well-known symbol of the island, is positioned on a pier near the Benesse House Museum. Both artworks are popular photo opportunities and symbolize the island's unique blend of art and nature.

Cost: Free to view.

Transport: The Red Pumpkin is located within walking distance of Miyanoura Port. The Yellow Pumpkin is near Benesse House Museum and Tsutsuji-so. It can be reached by walking from Tsutsuji-so or via the free shuttle bus to the Benesse House area. Cycling is also a popular way to reach the Yellow Pumpkin.

6. Naoshima Bath 'I♥Yu'

This is a functioning public bathhouse that also serves as an art installation, designed by artist Shinro Ohtake. Its quirky, scrapbook-like exterior and interior, featuring mosaics, murals, and even an elephant sculpture, create a unique and immersive bathing experience. It offers a chance for both locals and visitors to interact and relax within a piece of art.

Cost: Admission is ¥660.

Transport: Naoshima Bath 'I♥Yu' is located a few minutes' walk from Miyanoura Port.

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