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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Naoshima Art House Project
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

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

🎟️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kadoya - Sea of Time
Honmura District
Experience time's flow with flickering LED numbers, a poignant reflection on individual lives.

Minamidera - Light and Darkness
Honmura District
A quiet encounter with light and darkness, designed by Tadao Ando and James Turrell.

Haisha - Dentist's Office Transformation
Honmura District
See a former dentist's office reimagined by artist Shinro Ohtake into a vibrant art installation.

Gōra - Shrine Reconstruction
Honmura District
Hiroshi Sugimoto's artistic vision for a historic shrine, blending ancient origins with contemporary art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Unique Experiences
Embrace the Island Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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.
📖 Read the Artist's Intent
Understanding the artist's message enhances the experience.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Focus on the mood and unique details, not just the art itself.
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!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between the houses.
📖 Read the Artist's Intent
Understanding the artist's message enhances the experience.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Focus on the mood and unique details, not just the art itself.
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Savor each house and the island's charm.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred entry times and avoid disappointment.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The Naoshima Art House Project involves transforming abandoned traditional houses in the Honmura district into unique art installations by contemporary artists.
There are several art houses as part of the project, including Kadoya, Minamidera, Haisha, Gōra, and Ijinkan, each offering a distinct artistic experience.
Expect a variety of immersive art experiences, from light installations and multimedia works to site-specific sculptures and architectural interventions.
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.
Naoshima offers a unique blend of contemporary art, striking architecture, and serene island life, creating a tranquil yet stimulating atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art House Project: A Visionary Transformation
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.
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.
Navigating Naoshima: Getting Around and Making the Most of Your Visit
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit