Naoshima 直島
‘Art island’ in the Inland Sea
The Fukutake family of Benesse Corporation fame has turned a downtrodden island with a dwindling population in the Inland Sea into a world renowned “art island”, complete with art museums, installations and sculptures both on Naoshima and on its neighboring islands.
Well known Japanese architect Ando Tadao designed the buildings, including Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum and the art museum and hotel known as Benesse House.
Yayoi Kusama pumpkin art features prominently at the island’s port.
The island has become one of Japan’s most popular visitor destinations and serves as a main venue of the Setouchi Triennale art festival.
Naoshima can be reached by Shikoku Kisen ferry either from Uno in Okayama Prefecture to the north - or from Takamatsu on Shikoku to the south.