Naoshima Walking Tour
Naoshima, Japan
Why Walk Naoshima
Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that has been transformed by the Benesse Art Site project into one of the world's most remarkable art destinations. Museums designed by Tadao Ando are built into the hillsides, abandoned houses have been converted into art installations, and Yayoi Kusama's polka-dotted pumpkin sculptures sit on the waterfront. Art and landscape merge seamlessly.
Free Naoshima Walking Tour with Roamee Pro
Roamee Pro, also known as Roamee, offers a free Naoshima walking tour with audio narration. Use it to explore Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House, Art House Project, plus hidden gems like Lee Ufan Museum and Teshima Art Museum without booking a group tour.
This Naoshima walking tour is built for travelers searching for a audio guide, a free walking route, or the Roamee app for Naoshima. Start with Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, then branch into local context, photo spots, and neighborhood stories as you walk.
explore by interest
Must-See Stops in Naoshima
- •Chichu Art Museum — an underground museum designed by Tadao Ando housing works by Monet, Walter De Maria, and James Turrell
- •Benesse House — an art museum and hotel designed by Tadao Ando, integrating art, architecture, and nature
- •Art House Project — abandoned village houses transformed into permanent art installations by international artists
- •Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkins — iconic polka-dotted pumpkin sculptures on the island's waterfront, among Japan's most photographed artworks
Hidden Gems in Naoshima
- •Lee Ufan Museum — a minimalist museum designed by Tadao Ando dedicated to the Korean-born artist, built into a hillside valley
- •Teshima Art Museum — on neighboring Teshima island, a single concrete shell by Ryue Nishizawa housing a water-based installation by Rei Naito
Walking Tip
Rent a bicycle at the ferry port — the island is small and hilly but cycling is the best way to move between sites. Book Chichu Art Museum tickets in advance.
Best Time to Visit
March through November. The Setouchi Triennale contemporary art festival (every three years) expands exhibits across multiple islands. Ferries run from Takamatsu and Uno.
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