Cartoline da Naoshima, Giappone
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Naoshima Art House Project

4
·68 reviews·Okayama, Japan

Transforming abandoned houses into captivating art installations, Naoshima's Art House Project offers a unique blend of tradition and contemporary vis...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Cartoline da Naoshima, Giappone

Naoshima Art House Project

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Transforming abandoned houses into captivating art installations, Naoshima's Art House Project offers a unique blend of tradition and contemporary vision.

4
(68 reviews)

"Nice place. Amazing environment. Recommended for all and a must go for architecture students."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy the Art House Ticket

A single ticket grants access to most houses. Worth it for the unique experience!

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the houses.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kadoya - Sea of Time

Kadoya - Sea of Time

Honmura District

Experience time's flow with flickering LED numbers, a poignant reflection on individual lives.

Instagram
Minamidera - Light and Darkness

Minamidera - Light and Darkness

Honmura District

A quiet encounter with light and darkness, designed by Tadao Ando and James Turrell.

Instagram
Haisha - Dentist's Office Transformation

Haisha - Dentist's Office Transformation

Honmura District

See a former dentist's office reimagined by artist Shinro Ohtake into a vibrant art installation.

Instagram
Gōra - Shrine Reconstruction

Gōra - Shrine Reconstruction

Honmura District

Hiroshi Sugimoto's artistic vision for a historic shrine, blending ancient origins with contemporary art.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Unique Experiences

Many Art House Project installations require timed entry or have limited capacity. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment and ensure you can experience these unique artistic transformations. Instagram

Embrace the Island Pace

Naoshima is best explored at a relaxed pace. Allow ample time to wander between the art houses, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the blend of contemporary art with traditional island life. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Artists often present
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Book the experience for your next trip in Japan! Real sword cutting performance in Osafune, the home of Japanese Swords. #setouchicity #osafune #okayama #samurai #japanesesword
@setouchi_city
40.8K likes • 454.1K views

🎟️ Buy the Art House Ticket

A single ticket grants access to most houses. Worth it for the unique experience! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the houses. Instagram

The Art House Project is a collaborative of artists who renovated individual abandoned (and often derelict) houses in Naoshima to implement their own respective artistic visions. Each house m/project is different, and each has its own appeal and mystique. In many ways, the diversity of approaches is much of the appeal of the Project. #arthouseprojectnaoshima #arthouseproject #naoshimaartisland...
keith.bible
19 likes • 219 views
Naoshima Art House Project: Kadoya « Sea of Time ’98 » and « Naoshima’s Counter Window » Artist: Miyajima Tatsuo Kadoya is the first house of the Naoshima Ie (House) project that began in 1998. The lights of LED numbers that flicker at different speeds reflect the relative flow of time in each individual’s life. The speed of each counter was set by the residents of Honmura, Naoshima. While bein...
by_jooyoi
18 likes • 296 views

📖 Read the Artist's Intent

Understanding the artist's message enhances the experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

Focus on the mood and unique details, not just the art itself. Instagram

家プロジェクト「南寺」|安藤忠雄 × ジェームズ・タレル Art House Project “Minamidera” | Tadao Ando × James Turrell — 光と闇が語りかける、静かな体験 — — A quiet encounter with light and darkness — 香川県・直島。 Naoshima, Kagawa. 本村の街角にひっそりと佇む「南寺」。 Tucked away in the streets of Honmura stands “Minamidera.” 焼杉の外壁、木造のシンプルな建築。 A humble wooden structure with charred cedar walls. 手がけたのは建築家・安藤忠雄。 Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. そして中には、...
naoki_noguchi_architects
22 likes • 798 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy the Art House Ticket

A single ticket grants access to most houses. Worth it for the unique experience! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the houses. Instagram

📖 Read the Artist's Intent

Understanding the artist's message enhances the experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

Focus on the mood and unique details, not just the art itself. Instagram

⏳ Allow ample time

Don't rush! Savor each house and the island's charm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Naoshima Art House Project to be a unique and thought-provoking experience, appreciating the innovative transformation of traditional houses into art spaces. While some may not be 'blown away' by every piece, the overall environment and the poetic nature of the installations are highly recommended, especially for architecture students. The price is noted as being a bit steep for some.

"I have to say I wasn't "blown away" by the art, but their are some nice pieces, and the island is nice to stroll around and do something different. Before entering the museum, have a quick read in the intro pamphlet about what the artist is trying to say. It's quite pricey to get in."

Claire Tyrrell

"Nice pop off color in a sea of green trees. There's a way to get inside and see a different point of view. There's also a chair inside"

Kevin Kwok

"Be sure to stop and go inside. There is a seat where you can sit and take a few moments to admire the installation."

Peter Sheerin

What People Like

Unique artistic transformations
Poetic and immersive environments
Architectural integration

What People Dislike

Pricey admission

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access Naoshima via ferry from Uno Port (Okayama Prefecture) or Takamatsu Port (Kagawa Prefecture). From Miyanoura Port on Naoshima, you can walk or rent a bicycle to reach the Honmura district where most Art House Project sites are located. Instagram

While walking is feasible for the Honmura area, a local bus service connects the ports and major museums. Renting a bicycle is also a popular and enjoyable way to explore the island. Instagram

Yes, it's possible to visit Naoshima as a day trip, especially if you focus on the Art House Project in Honmura. However, to fully appreciate the island and its other museums, an overnight stay is recommended. Instagram

The Art House Project sites in Honmura are within walking distance of each other. For those with mobility concerns or who prefer not to walk, consider the local bus or renting a bicycle. Instagram

Ferries to Naoshima depart from Uno Port in Okayama and Takamatsu Port in Kagawa. These ports are accessible by train from major Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A combined ticket for the Art House Project typically costs around ¥1,040 (as of recent information). This ticket grants access to most of the individual art house installations. Reddit

Tickets can usually be purchased at the Honmura Port Information Center or at the entrance of the first art house you visit. It's advisable to confirm the exact purchasing points upon arrival. Reddit

The Art House Project sites generally operate from around 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but hours can vary seasonally and for individual houses. It's best to check the official Naoshima Art Site website for the most current information. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred entry times and avoid disappointment. TikTok

While the Art House Project requires a ticket, some outdoor art pieces and the general atmosphere of the island are free to enjoy. However, the main indoor installations are ticketed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules vary by installation. Some allow it, while others prohibit it to preserve the artwork or the visitor experience. Always look for signage or ask staff before taking photos. Instagram

Beyond the art houses, the island offers scenic coastal views, the iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture (though it has moved), and the unique architecture of the museums. Instagram

Generally, flash photography is prohibited inside all art installations to protect the artworks. Some artists may also request no photography at all to maintain the immersive experience. Instagram

A versatile camera that handles both bright outdoor light and dimmer indoor conditions well is ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities can also capture great shots. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in areas with public access and near cultural sites to ensure safety and respect for other visitors and the environment. Check local regulations before flying. Instagram

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The Naoshima Art House Project involves transforming abandoned traditional houses in the Honmura district into unique art installations by contemporary artists. Instagram

There are several art houses as part of the project, including Kadoya, Minamidera, Haisha, Gōra, and Ijinkan, each offering a distinct artistic experience. Instagram+2

Expect a variety of immersive art experiences, from light installations and multimedia works to site-specific sculptures and architectural interventions. Instagram+1

Some installations may be more engaging for older children or adults due to their conceptual nature. However, the unique environments can spark curiosity in younger visitors. Reddit

Naoshima offers a unique blend of contemporary art, striking architecture, and serene island life, creating a tranquil yet stimulating atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Naoshima Art House Project can be an intriguing experience for families, offering a unique way to engage with art and culture. While some installations are conceptual, the visual nature of many pieces, like the flickering lights in Kadoya or the vibrant transformation of Haisha, can capture children's imaginations. Instagram+1

Consider focusing on houses with more direct visual impact and discussing the stories behind them. Renting bicycles can add an element of adventure to exploring the island. Remember to check the suitability of specific installations for younger visitors and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking between sites. Instagram

🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts

For architecture lovers, Naoshima is a pilgrimage site. The Art House Project showcases how contemporary artists and architects like Tadao Ando have ingeniously repurposed traditional Japanese houses, preserving their essence while infusing them with modern artistic concepts. Instagram+1

Pay close attention to the architectural details of each house, the materials used, and how the artists have integrated their work with the existing structures. The interplay of light and shadow, particularly in installations like Minamidera, offers a masterclass in spatial design. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Naoshima is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking a contemplative and inspiring experience. The intimate scale of the Art House Project allows for personal reflection and a deep connection with the art. Instagram

Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, linger in installations that resonate with you, and soak in the peaceful island ambiance. The journey itself, with ferry rides and cycling, adds to the sense of adventure and discovery. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art House Project: A Visionary Transformation

The Naoshima Art House Project is a groundbreaking initiative that breathes new life into abandoned traditional houses in the Honmura district. Artists have transformed these spaces into unique, site-specific installations, offering visitors an intimate and immersive encounter with contemporary art. Each house tells a different story, reflecting the artist's vision and the history of the building itself. Instagram

This project is more than just displaying art; it's about reimagining spaces and integrating art into the fabric of the community. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the works, often in quiet contemplation, allowing the art to resonate on a personal level. The diversity of artistic approaches, from light and sound installations to sculptural interventions, makes exploring each house a distinct experience. Instagram+2

Key houses within the project include Kadoya, featuring Miyajima Tatsuo's 'Sea of Time,' which uses LED numbers to represent the flow of time; Minamidera, a collaboration between Tadao Ando and James Turrell that plays with light and darkness; and Haisha, where Shinro Ohtake has created a vibrant, eclectic environment within a former dentist's office. The Gōra Shrine reconstruction by Hiroshi Sugimoto also stands as a testament to this fusion of history and art. Instagram+2

Navigating Naoshima: Getting Around and Making the Most of Your Visit

Reaching Naoshima involves a scenic ferry ride from either Uno Port in Okayama or Takamatsu Port in Kagawa. Once on the island, the Art House Project sites are primarily concentrated in the Honmura district, making them accessible by foot. For those who prefer not to walk or wish to explore further, renting a bicycle is a popular and highly recommended option, offering a sense of freedom and allowing you to discover hidden gems. Instagram+1

While the Art House Project is a major draw, Naoshima is also home to other significant museums designed by Tadao Ando, such as the Chichu Art Museum and the Benesse House Museum. Planning your itinerary to include these can enrich your experience, but be mindful of travel times between locations. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Art House Project to save on entry fees. Instagram

To truly appreciate the art and the island's tranquil atmosphere, it's advisable to allow ample time for your visit. Rushing through the installations can detract from the contemplative experience. Reading up on the artists and their intentions beforehand can also deepen your understanding and appreciation of the works. Reddit

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