Naoshima Island

The quietest town I’ve visited in Japan—so peaceful you can count the number of locals you see on the street with your fingers. Ironically, it’s the tourists that bring the noise and life to this otherwise calm and sleepy island. I’m really glad I made the trip. If you love art, this place—often dubbed the Art Island—should be on your list. It’s not your usual Japan itinerary, and that’s exactly what makes it special. Be sure to plan your day well though, as the museums have specific opening times and require tickets. I recommend staying the night and renting a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace. It’s quiet, inspiring, and truly one of a kind.

We went to Japan with our 12 and 9 year old, it was one of our most memorable family trips and Naoshima island was definitely the most unforgettable! We stayed one night in the museum, the accommodation was luxurious and classy with amazing unobstructed view out of the balcony, had plenty of choices for dinner and the museum it self and the tour of the island was great fun for the adults and kids! To be honest when I booked it, I was worried that the family will hate me for the long journey here…it took one entire day from Tokyo, with train, bus, ferry, then some more bus! …they did moan abit about the long journey as kids do…but really loved every moment once they got here (perhaps the long journey even made them appreciate it more), it’s an awesome mix and balance of luxury accomodation, great food, art, architecture, nature and Japanese quirkiness that makes this country so unique, totally worth the long trek out. We absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it for families with 8+ and teenagers, it’s a must do!!

I will come back! Such a beautiful peaceful island! Went here for the work of yayoi kusama and will be back when Benesse Art Museum is open. 🤍

Just a heads up that all museums and Art houses are closed this week - 10-16 June 2024, for annual maintenance. Still a great day out visiting the island, but lots you can’t do this week.

Beautiful island with many museums and galleries. Rent an e-bike an explore it. Come early because there is a lot to see. You need to reserve online a slot at certain venues as chichu art museum for example.

Bucket list art island. Travelled from Kobe via Shinkansen to Okayama, then bus to Uno port, quick (20 mins) ferry to Naoshima. Shuttle buses on the island. It was much easier than expected as all transport options aligned and have intelligent/digital signage in english. Naoshima is lovely, lots of outdoor pieces and indoor galleries/museums, set on a beautiful island.

A pure joy! Skip Chi Chi and visit the other galleries. Walk or e-bike to see lots of art surprises. If you go in Winter like we did not all restaurants and bars are open.

Naoshima, what can I say. It’s a really fun island, even if you’re not particularly interested in art of museums (like myself). It’s just a really great atmosphere, with lots of things to do. You can ride around on a bike (book in advance!!!) or ride the bus. Staff are friendly no matter where you go. I did a day trip but I’d come back again or even stay on the island for a few days. You simply can’t finish this in a day. Be weary that some museums or exhibits require advance booking online.

Naoshima is considered the island art and even this pit stop is no difference. Umi no Eki is a one stop place to get you ferry ticket to Okayama. You can also get local items for gifts and grab some snack while waiting for the ferry to leave. You can also take the bus from here to your hotel or local bus to take you around the island. And of course , just a few minutes walk you can see the red polka dot pumpkin. It's a one stop shop for almost everything.