Naoshima, often referred to as Japan's "Art Island," is renowned for its contemporary art museums, installations, and architecture. The island features several notable museums designed by architect Tadao Ando, including the Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum, and Lee Ufan Museum. These institutions house works by artists such as Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria.
In addition to the museums, the Art House Project in the Honmura district transforms vacant houses into works of art, blending traditional architecture with contemporary creativity.
Outdoor installations, including Yayoi Kusama's iconic polka-dotted pumpkins, are scattered across the island, integrating art with the natural landscape.
Fun fact: this is where I took my long last profile photo! Highly recommend renting a bicycle while you're on the island and take an onsen at the retro hot spring if you have the time.
Getting there: Most tourists enter Naoshima through Miyanoura Port on the island's west coast. Miyanoura is served by ferries to/from Takamatsu, Uno and Inujima. The ferry terminal at Miyanoura Port serves as the information center and transportation hub of the island. It also provides coin lockers and bicycle rentals. Honmura Port on the island's east coast is conveniently located near the Art House Project, but has only infrequent ferry connections to/from Uno.