Immerse Yourself in Art in Naoshima Island

Naoshima Island (直島) is known as art island and once you step your foot onto Naoshima island,you will quickly realize why.

There are many art work located around the island and is a great place to see the collaboration of natural island and modern art.

Where is Naoshima Island?

Naoshima is located north of Kagawa prefecture and south of Okayama prefecture sandwiched in 2 prefectures. It is 20 minutes ferry ride from Okayama prefecture and 50 minutes from Kagawa prefecture. 

直島

Photo by Ken Yamaguchi

Must see spots in Naoshima

<Colorful Pumpkins>

The yellow and red pumpkins are the symbols of Naoshima. It is designed by the famous Yayoi Kusama and is definitely a must visit spot during your trip.

As you alright from the ferry, you will be welcomed by the red pumpkin. Inside the pumpkin also has unique design for you to enjoy from both outside and inside.

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Photo by merec0


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Photo by merec0

<Chichu Art Museum>

Chichu Art Museum (地中美術館) was designed by Tadao Ando, the famous architecture. It was designed not to disturb the scenery, therefore, most parts of the museum is build underground. However, you will be surprised how much natural light you get even if it is underground.

One thing to note about Chichu art museum is that it can be very crowded. Thus, it is highly recommended to visit first thing in the morning when it opens at 10am.

Tadao Ando - 地中美術館 Chichu Art Museum 18.jpg

Photo by 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia

The work of Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria are permanently displaced at this museum.

One of the recommended display is the work by Claude Monet. One art work is hung up in a room surrounded by white wall, white ceiling, and white floor and the presence of his work is just outstanding. 

地中美術館

Photo by Kaba

Tadao Ando - 地中美術館 Chichu Art Museum 19.jpg

Photo by 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia


<Art House Project>

Since 1998, artists have been transforming empty houses scattered around the island into a unique art work while maintaining its history and memory of the past time. By letting the history and memory live on, the intension is the create meaningful interaction between the locals and the tourists. 

“Haisha” Ex-dental clinic 

Haisha

Photo by saitowitz

“Ishibashi” Ex-Ishibashi family house 

 

Naoshima

Photo by raneko

“Go Shine” 

 

Go'o Shrine (護王神社)

Photo by Masa Sakano

How to Get Around Naoshima

You can choose to take the public bus, rent a bike, or walk.

If you want to go around slow, taking photos on the way, walking or cycling is an option. Only here for a day? Then, bus might be the most efficient.

Come to Naoshima and experience its unique collaboration of modern art, nature, and the life of locals.

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