A Journey Through Naoshima and Inujima—Where Art and History Intertwine in the Seto Inland Sea
The Seto Inland Sea is home to several islands that have gained international recognition for their contemporary art.
Among them, Naoshima and Inujima each have distinct yet complementary identities, where modern art and history beautifully merge.
This itinerary takes you from Naoshima to Inujima via Teshima, exploring the unique art and culture of these two fascinating islands.
Day 1: Naoshima—Exploring the Sanctuary of Contemporary Art
Morning: Experience the Fusion of Art and Island Life at the “Art House Project”
Start your journey in Honmura, where the Art House Project transforms traditional houses into immersive art installations.
Walking through the quiet streets, you’ll discover artworks seamlessly integrated into the landscape, blurring the boundaries between daily life and artistic expression.
Lunch: Savor a Meal Made from Local Ingredients
Around noon, take a break to enjoy a meal made from locally sourced ingredients.
The areas around Miyanoura Port and Honmura offer various cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables, allowing you to taste the essence of the island.
Afternoon: Discover the Artistic Wonders of Benesse House Museum
In the afternoon, head to the Benesse House Museum, where architecture, art, and nature harmoniously coexist.
This museum, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, showcases world.
Every artwork interacts with the surrounding environment, creating a unique viewing experience that changes with time and light.
Evening: Stay Overnight Surrounded by Art
Naoshima offers various accommodations where you can stay immersed in art.
Guests at Benesse House can explore the museum at night, while those opting for guesthouses or inns can experience the island’s quiet charm.
Day 2: Travel via Teshima to Inujima—Where Industrial Heritage Meets Contemporary Art
Morning: Take a Direct High-Speed Boat from Naoshima to Inujima (via Teshima)
The next morning, board a high-speed boat from Miyanoura Port (Naoshima) to Inujima, with a stop at Teshima.
• The journey takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes.
• No transfer is required—just stay onboard until you reach Inujima.
• Enjoy the scenic cruise through the Seto Inland Sea, where the calm waters and small islands create a breathtaking view.
Inujima Seirensho Art Museum—Reviving Industrial Ruins through Art
Your first stop on Inujima is the Seirensho Art Museum, a former copper refinery turned into an eco-conscious art space.
• Designed by architect Hiroshi Sambuichi, this museum integrates natural elements such as wind, water, and sunlight into its structure.
• Artist Yukinori Yanagi’s installations, using the ruins as part of the artwork, create a dialogue between past and present.
• The remaining stone structures from the refinery preserve the memory of Japan’s industrial history while being redefined through contemporary art.
Injima “Art House Project”—A Village Transformed by Art
Next, wander through Inujima’s quiet village, where the Art House Project turns traditional houses into art spaces.
• Works such as F-House, S-House, and I-House invite you into immersive environments where history and art coexist.
• Some installations extend into outdoor spaces, making the entire island feel like a vast, living artwork.
Inujima Life Garden—A Sanctuary of Nature and Art
Before leaving, visit the Inujima Life Garden, a tranquil spot where art and nature blend seamlessly.
• The garden features plants suited to Inujima’s climate, showcasing the harmony between the natural environment and human creativity.
• It offers a peaceful retreat, providing a moment of reflection before concluding your journey.
An Extraordinary Journey Through Art and History
Naoshima and Inujima each offer unique perspectives on contemporary art
• Naoshima immerses visitors in cutting-edge global art, blending it with architectural marvels and serene landscapes.
• Inujima revives its industrial past through art, creating a thought-provoking contrast between history and modern expression.
By exploring these two islands together, you’ll witness the transformative power of art in shaping space, history, and experience.
This journey through the Seto Inland Sea invites you to step beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in a world where art, nature, and history converge. Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure?