
One underrated place to visit in Japan is Naoshima one of several “art islands” in the Seto Inland Sea. After the once-thriving fishing and salt industries here fell into decline in the 1980s, a group called the Benesse Corporation alongside the renowned architect Tadao Ando set out to revive the island through art. The result? A totally unique and fun-to-explore travel destination, especially for art and nature lovers. . We visited on a 2-day, 1-night excursion from Osaka. Although the journey requires two trains and a ferry, it was very smooth and the 2.5 hour trip (one way) was totally worth it. . 🗺️ TIP: Comment “GUIDE” for a link to my complete guide + Google Map List. . QUICK GUIDE 🛏️ Stay: @benesse_artsite (Benesse House): Ever wanted to spend the night in a museum? This is your chance. Also worth looking into: @rokanaoshima, a new luxury ryokan known for its kaseki food and hot springs. . 🎨 See: Chichu Museum, Yayoi’s Pumpkins, The Art House Project (don’t miss James Turrell’s art house), Sculptures at Benesse House. . 🍱 Eat: Omelette rice at @cafesalon_nakaoku + vegan Japanese food at @aisunao_naoshima, both in Honmura . 🚲 Get around: Bikes are best, especially since this little island is best experienced by simply... wandering around 🙂 . #traveljapan #japantraveltips #naoshima #artisland #placesinjapan #uniquejapan #offthebeatenpath #beautifuldestinations #jessiebinjapan
Museum/Gallery
Art House Project: Kadoya
Museum
4.0

Benesse House Museum
Museum
4.3
Airy museum featuring contemporary paintings, sculptures, photos & installations, plus sea views.

Chichu Art Museum
Museum
4.4
Modern art in an underground building, with a garden inspired by Monet's Water Lilies. Book online.
Cafe/Dessert

Cafe Salon Nakaoku
Cafe
4.5
Restaurant

Aisunao