Must-Visit Places at Setouchi Triennale 2025

Held once every three years, the Setouchi Triennale transforms the Seto Inland Sea into a vast stage for contemporary art.

In 2025, numerous islands will host unique art projects, blending natural beauty with artistic expression. Here are the must-visit locations for this year’s festival.

1.Naoshima – The Heart of Setouchi Art

the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, offers an unparalleled art experience where architecture and nature harmonize.

The Benesse House Museum and Chichu Art Museum are must-sees, and a new museum is scheduled to open in spring 2025, introducing fresh perspectives to Naoshima’s art scene.

Highlights:

✔ Benesse House Museum

✔ Chichu Art Museum

✔ Art House Project

2.Teshima, Megijima, and Inujima – Diverse Art Experiences Across Islands

Teshima – A Fusion of Art and Nature

Teshima is known for its tranquil landscapes and site-specific installations. The Teshima Art Museum, designed by Ryue Nishizawa, is a breathtaking space where art interacts seamlessly with nature.

✔ Teshima Art Museum

✔ Art installations in Ieura and Karato areas

Megijima – Myth and Contemporary Art Collide

Megijima, famously known as the island of demons (Oni), blends traditional folklore with modern art. The coastal installations and cave-based artworks create an enchanting atmosphere.

✔ Ogre’s Cave (Onigashima Cave)

✔ Seaside art installations

Inujima – Industrial Heritage Meets Contemporary Art

Inujima is a small island where art is deeply intertwined with history.

The Inujima Seirensho Art Museum, built within a former copper refinery, preserves the industrial heritage while offering a striking contrast with contemporary art.

Additionally, collaborative art projects between locals and artists provide an ever-evolving experience.

✔ Inujima Seirensho Art Museum

✔ Inujima “Art House Project”

3.Seto Ohashi Area – Spring-Only Art Events

For the 2025 Triennale, the Seto Ohashi Area will feature special art exhibitions during the spring session only. Visitors can enjoy large-scale installations with breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

✔ Art installations set against the backdrop of the Seto Ohashi Bridge

✔ Limited-time exhibitions at port areas

4.Shodoshima – Where Art Meets Tradition

Shodoshima offers a mix of traditional culture and contemporary art. The island, famous for its olive groves and historic soy sauce breweries, is also home to unique outdoor installations.

✔ Artworks in soy sauce brewery districts

✔ Land art integrated into terraced rice fields

5.Takamatsu and Uno Ports – Art at the Gateway

Even before reaching the islands, visitors can enjoy art at Takamatsu Port and Uno Port, which serve as key gateways to the Setouchi Triennale.

These areas feature accessible public art installations, perfect for exploring while waiting for a ferry.

✔ Public art around Takamatsu Port

✔ Outdoor sculptures at Uno Port

Conclusion

The Setouchi Triennale 2025 promises a diverse and immersive art experience across multiple islands.

Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima are must-visit destinations for contemporary art lovers, while the Seto Ohashi Area’s new spring exhibitions add an exciting new dimension to this year’s event.

▶ Check the official website for the latest updates and start planning your trip!