Naoshima
直島 · Naoshima, Kagawa
An art island in the Seto Inland Sea: Tadao Andō's architecture, Monet's water lilies at the Chichu Art Museum, and light on the sea.
Know before you go
- Photography is banned in many parts of the museums
- don't enter houses that aren't open
- don't make noise or litter in residential areas
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Stories & people
Stories & people
History
An education company turned a small island into a museum
Since the late 1980s, the Okayama-based Benesse has led the creation of museums and art projects on Naoshima. Tadao Andō designed Benesse House, both museum and hotel, and the Chichu Art Museum, buried underground and lit by natural light, which holds works by only three artists: Claude Monet, James Turrell and Walter De Maria.
Source: Wikipedia: Naoshima
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Since the late 1980s, Benesse has led the building of museums and art projects on Naoshima. Tadao Andō designed Benesse House, which is both museum and hotel, and the Chichu Art Museum, buried underground, with installations by James Turrell and Walter De Maria and paintings by Monet.
Local customs
- Get around the island by bicycle or town bus
- the Chichu Art Museum and others require timed entry booking
Religion & beliefs
- The island's 'Art House Project' turns old houses, a temple and a shrine into art spaces
- respect the original religious sites when visiting.
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Don’t DON'T
- Photography is banned in many parts of the museums
- don't enter houses that aren't open
- don't make noise or litter in residential areas
Locals appreciate DO
- Islanders appreciate visitors who explore quietly and don't disturb residents
- the Art House Project works are in the village itself, so speak softly when passing homes.
Plan your visit
Practical info
| Time needed | 1 day |
|---|
Travel tips
- Take a ferry from Uno Port in Okayama or from Takamatsu
- book museums in advance online
- most facilities close on Mondays, so check before you go
Photos
Photos
663highland · CC BY 2.5
663highland · CC BY 2.5
Sources & verification notes
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