[2025 Naoshima Attraction] Travel Guide for Red Pumpkin (Updated May)

Having been to so many places in Japan, this island impressed me the most It makes me remember it so much that I really want to go back. Look at the artwork, enjoy the sea breeze, and enjoy the slow-paced way to play Very laid back and comfortable As soon as you arrive at Naoshima Pier, everyone has to look to the right to see the red pumpkin. It is an art work by Yayoi Kusama and it is very iconic. There are chairs for everyone to sit and enjoy. You can also go inside the Red Pumpkin to check in. We take a boat from Takamatsu Port to and from Naoshima There are ordinary ferries (about 50 minutes) and high-speed passenger boats (about 30 minutes) 📍Naoshima Pier #globaltravel

Naoshima Town is a town in Kagawa County, Kagawa Prefecture. It covers an area of ​​only 8 square kilometers. It takes about 50 minutes by ferry from Takamatsu Port, and about 30 minutes by high-speed ferry. Naoshima used to be a nearly deserted island until the "Naoshima Project" promoted by the Benesse Group and the Fukutake Foundation in 1991 officially started the road to Naoshima's artistic rebirth. Naoshima is now widely known as an island of art. Art is integrated into every corner of the island. It is known as a modern art mecca and is dotted with many art galleries and museums with artistic taste. Your friends will know you are in Naoshima as soon as they see you exchanging cards with Yayoi Kusama’s red and yellow pumpkins. #Island #100 Ways to Travel

Access: About 20 minutes by ferry from Uno Port! You can enjoy the view from the deck while on board, and you will arrive at Naoshima in no time♪ Tourist attractions: Naoshima, an island of art, has many tourist attractions, and the recommended one is Chichu Art Museum. Among the many tourist attractions, this is a must-visit spot when you go to Naoshima! You can feel the powerful art to your heart's content. There are also stylish cafes and restaurants inside the building, so it is also recommended to use it for lunch! #gourmettrip #breathtakingview #naoshima #chichuartmuseum #trip2022

2 days 1 night trip in Okayama - Naoshima Island How to get there - We used the JR Pass Kansai wide area, took the Shinkansen from Shin Osaka Station to Okayama Station, it took only 1 hour. Tourist attractions - #naoshima Naoshima Island, enjoy the artwork of Professor Ando and Professor Yayoi's polka dot pumpkins. Hotel - Daiwa roynet hotel okayama, good location, right next to JR Okayama Station, convenient, new and clean. #okayama

#Spring0yenTrip Naoshima is a small island in Kagawa Prefecture, known as a treasure trove of contemporary art. When you arrive on the island by ferry, the first thing that catches your eye is Yayoi Kusama's "Red Pumpkin." The striking, vibrant yellow and black polka dots make you want to take a photo. There are art museums dotted around the island, run by Benesse Art Site Naoshima. At the Chichu Art Museum in particular, you can view Monet's Water Lilies masterpiece up close, and I was overwhelmed by its power. Not only the art, but the island's scenery is also attractive, with idyllic fishing villages and beautiful coastlines. At the local cafes, you can enjoy dishes made with fresh seafood, and the "Naoshima Burger" was particularly delicious. Naoshima, where art and nature come together, is a place where you will want to visit again and again, as there are new discoveries every time you visit.

📍Trip overview Naoshima sightseeing 🚩Route Red pumpkin - Naoshima Pavilion - Naoshima Art Museum - Benesse Museum 🏖️Photogenic spots Red pumpkin 🚇Transportation 1 hour by boat from Takamatsu Port to Miyanoura Port Transfer by island shuttle bus 📷Recommended photo locations Sculptures including red pumpkins 🍜Exquisite food I recommend the udon restaurant near Naoshima Pavilion. It was delicious 🏠Recommended accommodation I didn't stay there on this trip, but next time I go I'd like to stay at the Benesse Museum 💡Notes Photography was prohibited at the Chichu Art Museum

Naoshima is the first stop on our island-hopping journey from Takamatsu, known for its famous Yayoi Kusama pumpkin and numerous art museums. Here's a detailed itinerary: 1️⃣ 8:12-9:02 Takamatsu to Naoshima (990 yen round trip, purchase tickets in advance at the automatic ticket machine next to the slow ferry ticket window, queue up after buying, and enjoy breakfast at the observation seats on the second floor). 2️⃣ 9:10 [Red Pumpkin] You can see Yayoi Kusama's Red Pumpkin as soon as you disembark at the pier. 3️⃣ 9:20 Rent an electric bicycle (we pre-booked at a nearby bicycle shop on Google Maps, and got the bike quickly). 4️⃣ 10:15 [Chichu Art Museum] (book your time on the official website in advance, arrive five minutes early, ticket price 2100 yen). No photography is allowed inside, but you can take photos outside, perfect for an immersive experience. 5️⃣ 12:00 [Time Corridor] (book in advance on the official website, ticket price 1500 yen). Hiroshi Sugimoto's Time Corridor is not only an art exhibition hall but also has a restaurant next door where you can rest, have tea, and enjoy snacks included in the ticket. 6️⃣ 13:00 [Yellow Pumpkin] Located by the sea at the entrance of the Time Corridor. 7️⃣ 13:15 [Seaside Shrine] There is a beautiful seaside shrine near the entrance of the Time Corridor and Yellow Pumpkin! 8️⃣ 13:30 [Chuo Cafe] After leaving the Time Corridor, head north to Chuo Cafe for a meal. The rural Japanese setting instantly transports you into an anime! We ordered curry omelet rice and a small cake, which were delicious! (Open 11:30-15:00, 17:30-21:00, closed on Tuesdays). 9️⃣ 14:30 Ride back to the port. It's particularly sunny at this time, so consider staying indoors at another cafe or visiting a museum. 🔟 17:00 Slow ferry back to Takamatsu. *Naoshima has many museums; due to the intense sun, we chose a few to visit, but there are others worth seeing: Ando Museum (520 yen), Lee Ufan Museum (1050 yen, many outdoor installations), Benesse House (1300 yen, hotel and museum). #TakamatsuJapan #SetoInlandSea #Naoshima #NaoshimaPumpkin #NaoshimaDayTrip #TakamatsuIslandHopping #ChichuArtMuseum #HiroshiSugimotoTimeCorridor #YayoiKusamaPumpkin #TakamatsuGuide #JapanTakamatsuGuide #JapanSummer #JapanSeaView #JapanTravelGuide

Starting from Takamatsu, I spent a day as a local tourist on Naoshima. Originally, I planned to visit during the 2025 Art Festival, but having explored the surrounding areas, I decided to take a break and visit the island. The Seto Inland Sea and the sea around Shikoku are endlessly captivating with their unique blue hues. I was fortunate to rent a yellow pumpkin car without a reservation. The island is small enough that you won't get lost even without a GPS. You often see the same cars and many cyclists on the road. The weather was relatively cool today, with some wind and a brief rain shower, but it cleared up quickly. I took the earliest ferry and arrived by 9 AM, thinking I could return by noon. However, the visit was rushed, and there are still many places I haven't seen, which I'll save for next time. #Japan #TakamatsuTravel #Shikoku #SetoInlandSea #Naoshima

In late April, I visited the Setouchi Triennale during its spring session, and the most impressive and highly recommended island is Naoshima! However, I didn't do much research beforehand and ended up taking some detours. So, I'm sharing my experience to help everyone have a joyful journey! First, if you're going to the Setouchi Triennale, I recommend downloading the official app and purchasing a passport, which costs 4,200 yen for the spring session. With the passport, you can freely view the artworks. Transportation: You can take a ferry from Takamatsu Port to Naoshima. There are high-speed ferries and regular ferries. The most cost-effective option is to buy an unlimited 3-day ferry pass. The earliest ferry from Takamatsu departs at 8:12 AM, and the latest return is at 5:00 PM. You can check the specific schedule at the ferry boarding area. Island Transportation: On the island, you can take a bus or rent a bicycle at the port. Buses are infrequent and not very convenient for getting around. Although the island is small, there is a hilly area, so I recommend renting an "electric bicycle"! Riding a bike on the island is really enjoyable. Route: Miyanoura Port 👉 Honmura Area 👉 Museum Area 👉 Return to Miyanoura Reservations Needed: Chichu Art Museum (additional ticket: 2,100 yen) and Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridor (additional ticket: 1,500 yen, includes wagashi and tea) I-House Project Minamidera (requires a ticket from the Honmura service center) Shopping: The port at Naoshima has the most comprehensive selection of souvenirs and goods. If you find something you like, don't assume you can buy it on another island because other islands really don't have it! Art Appreciation: Around Miyanoura Port: One of Naoshima's most famous artworks is Yayoi Kusama's pumpkin. The red pumpkin at Miyanoura Port is still there, but the yellow pumpkin, which was blown away by a typhoon, hasn't been repaired yet, so it's absent this time. Nearby is a three-dimensional work by Sou Fujimoto, perfect for photos. There's also a bathhouse renovated by Shinro Ohtake, where you can enjoy the feeling of bathing in an art museum if you have time! In Honmura: The Honmura area is scattered with various I-House Projects! Each one is worth visiting! Museum Area: The museum area feels like Tadao Ando's exclusive domain! Chichu Art Museum, Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridor, Lee Ufan Museum, Sakura Labyrinth, Benesse House Museum, and Valley Gallery are all must-sees! #SetoInlandSea #Naoshima #SetouchiTriennale #Japan #LifeInJapan #StudyInJapan #JapanTravel #Art

Naoshima, located in Kagawa Prefecture, is a beautiful island where art and nature coexist in harmony. Particularly known as the "Benesse Art Site Naoshima," the island is popular with tourists from all over the world as a mecca for contemporary art. Various artworks, such as the "Chichu Art Museum" designed by Tadao Ando and Yayoi Kusama's "Pumpkin," are scattered throughout the island, and the island is recognized for its unique space where art and nature come together. However, Naoshima's appeal is not limited to art. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, and the "Naoshima Tofu" named after the island is particularly popular. The entire island is like an art gallery, and I think it is the only island in Japan where you can enjoy the world of art while spending a comfortable time. #NaoshimaArt #0YenTravelAutumn

1. Naoshima, Kagawa Prefecture - A fusion of art and nature Naoshima, located in the Seto Inland Sea, is a paradise for art lovers. The island is dotted with works by famous artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Tadao Ando, ​​especially Yayoi Kusama's pumpkin sculptures, which have become a must-see spot. Recommended art galleries: Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House. Rent a bicycle and ride around the island to enjoy the harmony between art and nature. Location: In the Seto Inland Sea, near the waters of Kagawa Prefecture. Transportation: Take a ferry from Takamatsu Port or Okayama Uno Port to Naoshima, which takes about 30-60 minutes. Takamatsu Port: Take a bus from Takamatsu Airport to Takamatsu Port (approximately 40 minutes). Okayama Uno Port: Take the JR Uno Line from Okayama Station to Uno Station (approximately 50 minutes) and walk to Uno Port. 2. Tottori Sand Dunes - Japan's "Desert" The sand dunes in Tottori Prefecture are the largest desert landscape in Japan, and camel riding and sandboarding are popular activities. There are also places to soak in hot springs around, where you can experience the pleasure of relaxing in the natural landscape. Location: Tottori Prefecture, near the Sea of ​​Japan. Transportation: Take the Tottori Sand Dunes bus from Tottori Station, which takes about 20 minutes. Airport: The bus from Tottori Airport to Tottori Station takes about 20 minutes. 3. Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture - Close contact with foxes Zao Fox Village is a must-visit place for fox lovers. There are more than 100 foxes raised in the village, and you can observe them up close and even feed them. In winter, the combination of snow and foxes is very dreamy. Transportation: From Shiroishi Zao Station (Shinkansen stops) Bus: From Shiroishi Station, you can take a local bus which takes about 40 minutes. 4. Shirakawa-go, Gifu - the tranquility of Gassho-style village Shirakawa-go is a famous world heritage site, and its unique Gassho-style houses are its iconic landscape. Shirakawa-go is covered with snow in winter, like a fairy tale world. It is recommended to overlook the entire village from the observation deck in the evening, the scenery is particularly charming. Location: Northern Gifu Prefecture, World Heritage Site. Transportation: Take a direct bus from Takayama Station or Kanazawa Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. Take the JR line from Nagoya to Takayama Station, then take a bus. 5. Aomori Oirase Gorge - Tranquility in a Secret Place The Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture has clear water and dense forests. Autumn is the best time to visit. The red and yellow maple leaves decorate the entire gorge like a poem, which is suitable for travelers who like hiking and photography. Location: Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, connected to Lake Towada. Transportation: Take a bus from Aomori Station to Lake Towada (about 2 hours), and get off at Oirase Gorge. Airport: Take the airport bus from Aomori Airport to Aomori Station, then transfer to the bus. 6. Nara Yoshinoyama - a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot with few people Although it is not as popular as the cherry blossom viewing season in Kyoto and Tokyo, the cherry blossom landscape of Yoshinoyama is unique. In spring, tens of thousands of cherry trees are in full bloom on the mountain, there are relatively few tourists, and the environment is quieter. Location: Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, Kansai region. Transportation: Take the Kintetsu train from Osaka Abenobashi Station to Yoshino Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. You can also take the Kintetsu Line from Nara Station or Kyoto Station to Yoshino Station. Tips: Transportation: Plan ahead, as some attractions are remote and require taking a local bus or renting a car. Accommodation: Choose a local B&B to experience traditional Japanese culture. Food: Don’t miss the local delicacies, such as udon noodles in Kagawa Prefecture and crab dishes in Tottori.

I went to Naoshima! I took a ferry operated by Shikoku Kisen from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture to Naoshima. Of course, you can also get there from Shikoku. You can bring your car on the ferry, but I thought I could do some sightseeing in Naoshima without a car, so I parked my car in a large parking lot near the ferry terminal. The ferry runs once an hour, and there are no ferries at certain times, so I recommend checking the time in advance. I guessed I would have to wait until the ferry time to return, and took the ferry I could get on. The second photo was taken from the ferry when I arrived at Naoshima. A red pumpkin sculpture greeted me ^ ^ After arriving, I immediately ate udon. Since it was Kagawa Prefecture, the udon was delicious. #domestictrip

Naoshima is a small island in Shikoku, Japan, with a population of less than 4,000. It is located north of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, near Tamano City. It is a main venue of the Setouchi Triennale, with multiple museums and home projects, as well as famous artworks such as Yayoi Kusama's Red Pumpkin and Soichiro Fujimoto's Naoshima Violin. The Benesse Corporation on Naoshima hosts the 'Benesse Art Site Naoshima' art event. It is often said that Naoshima is the island of architect Tadao Ando, and this area is full of his buildings that carry the diverse characters of artists.

I went to Naoshima in Kagawa Prefecture in mid-March this year 🥺 50 minutes by boat from Takamatsu Port 🛳 I saw on the news that a pumpkin had been swept out to sea... 2 years ago! It's back!! (October 2022) Since January 2023, the collaboration between Kusama (the pumpkin maker) and VUITTON has been popular 🥹 There was a second round in March ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)💕 Actually, there are other Kusama works in Naoshima besides pumpkins 🫣 You can also buy Naoshima-exclusive goods 🥰 There are many other artists' works in Naoshima besides Kusama ☺️ (Naoshima is said to be an island of art) The weather was unfortunate on the day I went, but I rented an electric bicycle and went around the island, experiencing a lot of art and nature 🚴‍♀️ ⭐️1 day🚴Rental 1,200 yen There are several places right in front of the port, so I was able to rent one without it being crowded ☺️ #KagawaTourism #777 #Naoshima #NaoshimaArt