Naoshima Island
From the moment you are greeted by the oversized colourful pumpkin sculptures on the seafront, it is clear that Naoshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, is Japan’s premier destination for contemporary art. Explore the many abandoned houses, temples and workshops that have been re-energised by artists into modern art installations and you can even stay in a hotel that doubles as an art museum.
A main venue of the Setouchi Triennale art festival, Naoshima is covered in contemporary artworks, as well as more conventional galleries. Highlights include the Chichu Art Museum, a work of art in itself, the Lee Ufan Museum dedicated to the work of the Korean artist and a chance to stay at Benesse House, both an art museum and hotel.
Benesse House
Naoshima Island, Japan
Sitting opposite the Seto Inland Sea on the arty island of Naoshima, Benesse House feels more like an art gallery than a hotel and that's mostly because it is. It is a contemporary museum with rooms and is an extraordinary place to stay for art lovers.
Roka Naoshima
Naoshima Island, The Japanese Coast, Japan
Any art lover visiting Japan will want to include a trip to the art island of Naoshima on their itinerary. With artworks scattered across this small island, it takes a whole day to explore and to relax into a visit, so most people spend the night.