Map of Naoshima, Japan

🎨 What to Do in Naoshima

Embrace the artistic soul of Naoshima through immersive experiences and cultural encounters that blend seamlessly with the island's stunning landscapes. From contemporary art installations to tranquil gardens, Naoshima offers a treasure trove of activities for every visitor.

• Best Budget Activity in Naoshima:

  Art House Project: Explore renovated traditional houses that now serve as art spaces, showcasing modern artworks in a unique setting.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Naoshima:

  Benesse House Museum: Discover a blend of art, architecture, and nature in this contemporary art museum and hotel complex overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.

• Best Luxury Activity in Naoshima:

  Teshima Art Museum: Immerse yourself in a minimalist architectural marvel housing a single piece of artwork that interacts with light and nature in a truly mesmerizing way.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Naoshima

In Naoshima, indulge in a culinary journey featuring a fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and contemporary dishes. Don't miss trying out fresh seafood delicacies and art-inspired meals that reflect the island's creative vibe.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Naoshima:

  Naoshima Kitchen•$-$$:

  Local seafood dishes and fusion cuisine.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Naoshima:

  Terrace Dining•$$-$$$:

  French-Japanese fusion cuisine.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Naoshima:

  Seaside Elegance•$$$-$$$$:

  Exquisite multi-course Kaiseki meals.

• Best Budget Bar in Naoshima:

  Sunset Sips•$:

  Chill with a local craft beer or sake with a stunning sunset view.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Naoshima:

  Moonlight Lounge•$$-$$$:

  Savor creative cocktails inspired by local flavors.

• Best Luxury Bar in Naoshima:

  Ocean View Terrace•$$$-$$$$:

  Indulge in rare whiskies or champagne while overlooking the sea.

🏞️ What to See in Naoshima

Prepare to be enchanted by Naoshima's harmonious blend of contemporary art installations and natural beauty, creating a unique cultural landscape that captivates visitors from around the world.

• Chichu Art Museum:

  This museum designed by Tadao Ando integrates art and architecture seamlessly, showcasing masterpieces by artists like Claude Monet and James Turrell.

• Benesse House Museum:

  A stunning fusion of contemporary art and accommodation, offering a diverse collection of artwork against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea.

• Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkin:

  An iconic red pumpkin sculpture on the pier, created by the renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, providing a whimsical and Instagram-worthy spot.

• Ando Museum:

  Explore the works and architectural philosophy of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando in a space that reflects his signature minimalist style.

• Art House Project:

  Wander through a series of art installations housed in traditional Japanese homes, blending contemporary artworks with the island's historic charm.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Naoshima

Indulge in a shopping experience like no other on the art-filled streets of Naoshima, where boutique stores and art galleries offer a unique selection of local crafts and creative souvenirs that reflect the island's artistic spirit.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Naoshima:

  Naoshima Port Market: Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods, creating a lively market atmosphere perfect for budget-friendly finds.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Naoshima:

  Naoshima Hall: Discover a variety of art-inspired gifts, ceramics, and textiles at this cultural hub that showcases the talents of local artisans and designers.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Naoshima:

  Benesse House Shop: Explore a curated selection of high-end art books, designer home decor, and exclusive art-related merchandise at this sophisticated boutique within Benesse House Museum.

🚌 Getting Around Naoshima

• Public Transport

  In Naoshima, the primary mode of public transportation is buses. The Benesse Art Site Naoshima Bus operates on the island, connecting various art sites, museums, and the ferry terminals. The bus fare is around 100-200 yen per ride, with schedules coordinated with the arrival and departure of ferries. Keep in mind that the bus service may have limited frequency, so it's advisable to plan your itinerary accordingly.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hub closest to Naoshima is the Uno Port, which serves as the gateway to the island. From Uno Port, visitors can take a ferry to Naoshima. The nearest train station to Naoshima is in Okayama, where travelers can transfer to a local train to Uno Port. Additionally, Okayama Airport is the closest airport, with connections to major cities in Japan.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: While public transportation is sufficient for exploring Naoshima, car rentals are available for those who prefer more flexibility. Companies like Times Car Rental and Nippon Rent-A-Car offer services on Naoshima. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: A popular way to get around Naoshima is by renting a bicycle. Several rental shops on the island provide bicycles for around 500-1000 yen per day. Cycling allows visitors to explore the island's unique art installations and scenic landscapes at their own pace.