Benesse House

Created by the incredibly well respected architect, Tadao Ando, Benesse House is the place to stay on the arty Japanese island of Naoshima. It brilliantly complements the natural surroundings and the blues of the Seto Inland Sea with its simple lines of concrete, glass and wood. The hotel isn't luxurious but it is stylish, functional and comfortable and most of the small complex has been designed to take in the sea views. Four buildings make up the property including Oval, Museum, Beach and Park. Availability is always very tight at Benesse House, and whilst we do everything to secure the best rooms, its just worth going with what you get as all the rooms are more than good enough.

Naoshima together with nearby Teshima and Inujima Island have become some of worlds most remarkable destinations for contemporary art and architecture, with humble beginnings that started 1987. Benesse House is at the forefront, showcasing some of the regions major art works, many of which wouldn't look out of place in the Tate Modern. Spend a couple of nights here and explore the dozens of galleries and exhibitions across these remarkable islands.