What to do in Naoshima
Benesse Corporation, the organisation that oversees the museums, installations and sculptures on both Naoshima and the surrounding islands, has played a key role in the installation of much of the art that graces the island. Benesse’s museums, magnificently designed by the world-renowned Japanese architect Ando Tadao, include the renowned Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum and all the extraordinary facilities at Benesse House. In addition, modern architect Ishii Kazuhiro has put his signature on the elegant design of Naoshima’s municipal buildings and schools. Not only home to the celebrated Setouchi Triennial Art Festival, the island has become an important destination for art lovers from all over the world.
松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Chichu Art Museum, located on the island of Naoshima, Japan, is an extraordinary work of art in itself. Designed by architect Tadao Ando, the museum blends perfectly with its surroundings and is mainly located underground to preserve the natural harmony of the island. Inside, guests can admire works of art by artists such as Claude Monet, James Turrell and Walter De Maria. The combination of light, space and artwork creates a unique immersive experience, inviting visitors to reflect and connect with art in a serene and magical environment. The Chichu Art Museum is a must-see for art lovers visiting Naoshima.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| 10:00-18:00 (from 1 March to 30 September) 10:00-17:00 (from 1 October to the last day of February) Last entry 1 hour before closing time |
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| Monday (next day if Monday is a national holiday) | |
| 2800 Yen 3000 Yen (weekends and national holidays) 300 Yen discount if purchased online at the official website |
The Naoshima Art House Project is a collection of old traditional houses transformed into memorable works of art. This project was created to attract visitors to lesser-known places on the island, while offering a unique and immersive experience within these buildings. The artists involved used pre-existing spaces and structures to create contemporary art installations that blend perfectly with the traditional atmosphere of the place. Being immersed in a traditional Japanese house transformed into an art installation from around the world is a unique and unforgettable experience that can only be appreciated by visiting the Art House Project on Naoshima Island.
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松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 10:00-16:30 Last entry 15 minutes before closing time |
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| Monday (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday); Kinzan is also closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays | |
| 1400 Yen (combined ticket for all houses except the Kinza and Minamidera, 1200 Yen if purchased online) or 700 Yen per house (600 Yen if purchased online); advance booking is strongly recommended for visiting the Kinza and Minamidera, especially the Kinza. |
Benesse House is an exceptional fusion of art, architecture and design located on the island of Naoshima, Japan. This extraordinary complex houses a contemporary art museum and a luxury hotel, offering a unique combination of culture and hospitality. Designed by architect Tadao Ando, each space is conceived to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings, creating an immersive and impactful visitor experience. Guests can admire works of art by world-renowned artists, enjoy sea views and experience a sense of tranquillity and beauty that makes Benesse House a truly extraordinary place.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 8:00-21:00 (last entry at 20:00) | |
| A few days for maintenance | |
| 1500 Yen 1300 Yen if purchased on the official website |
The Lee Ufan Museum, located on the island of Naoshima, Japan, is an oasis of art and contemplation. Designed by the artist Lee Ufan, the museum houses works by the artist and other leading exponents of the minimalist art movement. The museum’s architecture is designed to blend art, environment and visitors harmoniously, creating spaces that invite reflection and contemplation. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the island and the surrounding nature, breathing in an atmosphere of tranquillity and isolation from the outside world. The Lee Ufan Museum is a unique place where art becomes a form of meditation and spiritual connection with the surrounding beauty.
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KimonBerlin, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 10:00-18:00 (from 1 March to 30 September) 10:00-17:00 (from 1 October to the last day of February) Last entry 1 hour before closing time |
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| Monday (next day if Monday is a national holiday) | |
| 1400 Yen 1200 Yen if purchased on the official website |
I Love Yu, located on Naoshima Island, is a unique experience. This art and spa space was created by artist Shinro Ohtake in collaboration with architect Yuko Nagayama. Inside, guests can immerse themselves in a luxurious, futuristic environment with walls covered in mosaics and breathtaking artwork. The thermal baths offer a feeling of well-being and relaxation, while the exhibition spaces feature a collection of unusual and fascinating objects. I Love Yu is a fusion of art and wellness, a place to fully immerse oneself in the beauty and pleasure of the senses.
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 13:00-21:00 | |
| Monday (next day if Monday is a national holiday) | |
| 660 Yen |
The Ando Museum, located on the island of Naoshima, is an architectural work of art created by the famous architect Tadao Ando. This museum is distinguished by its minimalist and geometric structure, which blends perfectly with its surroundings. Inside, the exhibition spaces are well lit, highlighting the works of art on display. The combination of concrete, glass and natural light creates an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation, making a visit to the Ando Museum a unique and immersive experience. Lovers of art and architecture will be fascinated by this extraordinary creation by Tadao Ando.
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 10:00-16:30 (last entry 30 minutes before closing time) | |
| Monday (next day if Monday is a national holiday) | |
| 700 Yen 600 Yen if purchased on the official website |