[2025 Naoshima ] Travel Guide for Setouchi Triennale 2025Setouchi Triennale 2025 (Updated Apr)

The much-anticipated Setouchi International Art Festival, held every three years, has officially announced its schedule and tickets are now available! I attended the planning presentation this afternoon. Next year, the festival will feature many new areas 🌊 with three sessions in spring, summer, and fall: Spring from April 18 to May 25, Summer from August 1 to August 31, and Fall from October 3 to November 9. Tickets are available in electronic and paper formats 🎫 with early purchase at 3,800 yen, advance purchase at 4,300 yen, and same-day purchase at 5,500 yen. ⭐️ New venues include: • Kishi Shido Tsuda area • Higashikagawa Hiketa area • Utazu Town area. The new Naoshima Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, will open in 2025, showcasing works by contemporary Asian and Japanese artists. ⭐️ Key areas include: • Takamatsu Port, Uno Port, Shodoshima, and several mainland venues. • Use the JR express train to connect the eastern Hiketa area and the western Kanonji area, with travel times between 40-50 minutes, not exceeding 1 hour. ⭐️ Exhibition schedules at various museums: • Kagawa Prefectural Museum: Chiyo Osawa's "Seven Wonders of Sanuki" exhibition. • Takamatsu City Museum: Takashi Ishida's painting and animation exhibition. • Marugame Genichiro Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art: Shinro Ohtake solo exhibition. • Okayama Prefectural Museum: Exhibition by Yuichi Hirako. • Ohara Museum of Art: Spring exhibition and Yasumasa Morimura solo exhibition. This time, the festival covers a larger area with more participating artists, and in addition to the Seto Inland Sea tour, there are tours based on artists, which I will detail in my next post! Get ready, everyone! I'm so excited! I really love the Setouchi International Art Festival!! #Setouchi #ArtFestival #JapanTravel

The Setouchi Triennale is scheduled to open on April 18, 2025. The festival will feature many retained works from the past, along with 46 new works and 10 events by artists from 21 countries and regions. The festival venues include 17 locations such as the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding cities and prefectures. To thoroughly enjoy the festival, it is estimated that at least three days are needed due to the inconvenient transportation in the Seto Inland Sea. Like previous years, the 2025 festival will be divided into three sessions: spring, summer, and autumn, running from April 18 to May 25, August 1 to August 31, and October 3 to November 9, totaling 107 days. It is recommended to purchase an art appreciation passport, which is more economical than the single-entry ticket priced at 500 yen. Special early bird tickets are 3,800 yen, advance tickets are 4,300 yen, and same-day tickets are 5,500 yen. Tickets for ages 16-18 are 2,500 yen, and children under 16 are free. Throughout the festival, venues include Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, and the areas around Takamatsu Port and Uno Port. The spring session includes areas around the Seto Ohashi Bridge, the summer session includes Shido, Tsuda, and Hiketa areas, and the autumn session includes Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibukijima, and Utazu areas. #SetouchiTriennale #JapanTravel

In 2025, the Setouchi Triennale Art Festival will take place, and tickets are already available. Ogijima and Megijima are must-see destinations during this event. Outside the festival period, only outdoor artworks are accessible, so it's best to plan your visit for next year. You can make a day trip from Takamatsu. Megijima, with a population of about 100, is said to be the inspiration for the demon island in the Momotaro legend. Notable artworks include: 1. "20th Century Recall" - A triangular piano with four sails, creating a romantic blend of waves and melodies. 2. "Seagull Parking Lot" - Seagull signboards on the breakwater that change direction with the wind. 3. "Terraced Wind" - 400 ceramic pieces integrated into the landscape of former terraced fields. 4. "Onigashima Cave" - Features demon tiles made by local students; it's a bit far and not very interesting, but reportedly cool inside. During the art festival, additional works are open: 5. "Mekon" - A former school turned into an art space showcasing colorful works by Shinro Ohtake. 6. "Megijima Shopping Street" - A themed park with cafes, a barber shop, a ping-pong hall, and a glass fishing gear store. 7. "ISLAND THEATRE MEGI" - A retro theater in a renovated warehouse with a Manhattan vibe. 8. "Absent Presence" - An intriguing piece to experience firsthand. Ogijima, also known as Cat Island, has fewer cats now due to neutering. The island offers a calming sea view and is a hidden gem. Highlights include: 1. "Walking Ark" - Inspired by Noah's Ark, featuring four white and blue mountains. 2. "Soul of Ogijima" - White letters on rooftops. 3. "Wallalley Project" - Colorful murals made from recycled wood and boats. 4. "Ogijima Library" - Check the website for open days, usually weekends. 5. "Toyotama-hime Shrine" - Offers stunning sea views from the top. 6. "Sunset and Cat House" - A cafe where the owner cares for all the island's cats, each with a name. During the festival, additional works are open: 7. "Room within a Room" - Another piece to explore. 8. "Generative Drawing" - A mural room depicting the coexistence of plants, shells, humans, and the ocean. Transportation: - 8:00-8:20 Takamatsu to Megijima (370 yen) - 12:20-12:40 Megijima to Ogijima (240 yen) - 17:00-17:40 Ogijima to Takamatsu (510 yen) Tips: 1. Both islands are walkable, but there are many slopes, so renting a bike is not recommended. 2. It's best to have lunch on Ogijima, as there are limited dining options on Megijima.

The Setouchi Triennale in Japan, centered around culture and art, combined with island tourism, conveys the universal value of a 'beautiful life.' 📅 Schedule 🌲 Spring: April 18 - May 25 ☀️ Summer: August 1 - August 31 🍂 Autumn: October 3 - November 9 Total 107 days 🧍‍♂️ Venues: Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Shamijima (Spring), Honjima (Autumn), Takamijima (Autumn), Awashima (Autumn), Ibukijima (Autumn), Takamatsu Port and Uno Port areas, Kagawa Prefecture coastal areas (Nio Town in Summer, Higashi Kagawa City in Summer, Utazu Town in Autumn). #SetoInlandSea #SetouchiTriennale #SetouchiArtFestival #JapanTravel

The Setouchi Triennale is a renowned art festival held every three years in Japan, taking place among several islands in the Seto Inland Sea in the Shikoku region. It's a must-visit for fans of Japanese architecture masters, with famous museums located here. Fans of Tadao Ando should not miss it, making it highly recommended for architecture enthusiasts and professionals. Event Timing: Check the annual posters for details. Ticket Purchase: Buy and print tickets at 711/Family convenience stores, then exchange them for a passport ticket at the island ports or visitor centers. Transportation: It's recommended to arrive at Takamatsu Airport, as the airport bus can conveniently reach hotels and ports. Recommended Islands: Naoshima, Shodoshima, Teshima 1. Naoshima - Chichu Art Museum: The only museum on Naoshima that requires advance reservations, with 70% of its area underground. The experience differs greatly between a bird's eye view and walking through the museum. Key highlights include De Maria's granite sphere installation and Monet's Water Lilies display space. Enjoy the restaurant and terrace with a view. - Benesse House Oval: A museum hotel with only six rooms, known as one of the hardest to book globally. It consists of a museum, a Michelin restaurant, and hilltop rooms accessible by a self-driven cable car, offering an amazing experience. - Lee Ufan Museum: Located in a quiet valley facing the sea, another work by Tadao Ando, featuring a semi-underground structure displaying works by Korean-Japanese Mono-ha artist Lee Ufan. - Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkin: The iconic pumpkin at the world's end needs no introduction. Travel: Takamatsu to Naoshima, with a recommendation to book at Benesse House for exclusive bus access. Hotel Recommendations: Benesse House Oval/Beach Park 2. Shodoshima As the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, visit the Olive Park to experience the "Kiki's Delivery Service" vibe and walk the mysterious Angel Road that appears only at low tide, believed to bless couples who walk it together. Don't miss the small noodle shop at the port visitor center with only six menu items, each incredibly delicious. Travel: Takamatsu to Shodoshima, with island buses available. Hotel: Shodoshima Bay Resort Hotel, featuring sea-facing lobby sofas, complimentary coffee and tea, free yukata, indoor hot spring baths, and a rich buffet for dinner and breakfast. 3. Teshima - Teshima Art Museum: A single museum with an empty space that has a magical allure of water, nature, air, and echoes, making it the favorite space of this trip. Designed by Ryue Nishizawa with water drop art by Rei Naito. Travel: Takamatsu to Teshima by fast boat, with island buses available. #TravelInspiration #SetoInlandSea

Every three years, art enthusiasts from around the world flock to the Seto Inland Sea region to admire the works of artists like Yayoi Kusama, Tadao Ando, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Cai Guo-Qiang. The festival not only showcases various outdoor and indoor art pieces but also includes craft markets, food festivals, and performances. As the 2025 Setouchi Triennale approaches, one of the most anticipated highlights is Tadao Ando's 10th architectural work on Naoshima. Another notable landmark is the artwork "Pumpkin" by Japan's avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama, known as the "Queen of Polka Dots." The most popular spot on the island is the large yellow pumpkin by the sea, often referred to as the "Pumpkin at the End of the World" due to its location by the vast ocean. The yellow pumpkin has had its share of challenges; it was damaged by a typhoon in 2021, but Kusama's team has since recreated and reinforced it to withstand future storms. On Teshima, the "Heart Archive" allows visitors to listen to heartbeats from around the world and record their own, preserving evidence of existence in the most romantic way. This year, as in previous years, "Art Appreciation Passports" and "Cruise Tickets" are expected to be available. Filling an entire passport with stamps brings a sense of pride, while cruise tickets make island hopping convenient. Alternatively, visitors can opt for the Seto Inland Sea JR PASS, which offers unlimited reserved seat exchanges, providing great value. #Art #SetoInlandSea #SetouchiTriennale #Japan #Travel #ArtInspiration #ArtFestival

Previously, I had trouble purchasing tickets through the app due to payment failures, and each email could only be used to buy one ticket. However, I found out from the official website that tickets can be purchased offline. During my trip to Japan, I had the perfect timing to buy them. Just find a machine, select セブンチケット, and search for the Setouchi keyword. You can buy them at any 7-11 store! #SetouchiTriennale2025

I just bought early bird tickets for 2025 and reminisced about 2019, the last trip before the pandemic. In November, there weren't many tourists, but I met a group of charming architects from Shanghai while island hopping. We explored several spots together. My friends and I leisurely strolled between islands, enjoying the seaside without rushing or obsessing over check-ins, fully immersing ourselves in the fusion of art and nature. Each island in the Seto Inland Sea has its own charm, from olive-producing Shodoshima, cat-filled Cat Island, ghost-themed Oni Island, to Naoshima and Teshima with their famous museums, and many other islands we couldn't visit due to time constraints. The locals were very friendly, and we occasionally saw elderly people gardening. ✨ Some scattered tips ✨ ① Flights: Shanghai to Takamatsu via Spring Airlines ② Accommodation: Consider staying a night on Teshima or Naoshima, or like us, stay in Takamatsu ③ Tickets: You can buy tickets (passport) for the art festival at local convenience stores or download the 'Setouchi' app to purchase them now; early bird tickets are 3800 yen ④ Island hopping: Plan to visit 1-2 islands per day; consider staying overnight on larger islands for comfort ⑤ Other tips ⚡️ Takamatsu is famous for udon, eat to your heart's content! ⚡️ Check ferry schedules in advance to avoid missing them! ⚡️ Check bus schedules on the islands as they are infrequent and easy to miss! ⚡️ We stayed for 5 days, but 7 days would be more comfortable! #Setouchi #SetouchiTriennale #JapanTravel #SetoInlandSeaIslandHopping #Naoshima #Shodoshima #ArtandNature

Naoshima is divided into three areas with frequent bus services, so renting an electric bicycle is unnecessary—save your energy for Teshima. If visiting on a Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, try to catch the 9:07 ferry from Takamatsu to Naoshima Honmura Port to start your visit with the Art House Project. Tickets for the Art House Project are purchased on-site, and it's best to book your visit to Minamidera at the same time. Make full use of the ticket office's restroom and air conditioning. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance for the Chichu Art Museum and Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridors. Listen to the staff's instructions before entering any exhibitions or galleries. Naoshima offers little in terms of Chinese services, with brochures and exhibition guides available only in Japanese and English, which might be challenging if you're not proficient in either language. On Teshima, the main mode of transportation is electric bicycles. Although there are buses, they run infrequently and are primarily for the 800 island residents, with no schedules available on Google Maps. Be sure to reserve your electric bicycle in advance. The island is very sunny, so take precautions against sun exposure. Riding an electric bicycle requires no special skills—if you can ride a regular bike, you'll be fine. There are many hills, so wear the helmet provided by the bike rental shop, although no one checks. Expect to cycle at least 10 kilometers round trip, which requires some physical stamina. Use both hands to brake when going downhill, and consider using a single earphone for navigation to avoid accidents. Both Naoshima and Teshima are avant-garde art parks, ideal for young people and architecture or art students. If you're not particularly interested in installation art or innovative art forms, these islands might not be worth visiting just for the sake of it. One unique tip: all art experiences on Naoshima and Teshima require you to remove your shoes, so wear shoes that are easy to take off and socks without holes. Feel free to reach out with any questions. #Naoshima #Teshima #DayTrip #SetoInlandSea #Takamatsu

The biggest lesson learned is to wear comfortable shoes and sun-protective clothing to avoid getting sunburned. For Naoshima, take the bus directly to the Chichu Art Museum after disembarking. After visiting, you can have a snack at the museum's cafe, then take the free shuttle bus to Lee Ufan Museum, Benesse House, and the Corridor of Time. The latter closes at 2:00 PM and might disrupt your schedule, so it may not be worth the visit. Finally, take the bus to the Art House Project and Ando Museum. The "Water" project is a must-visit where you can relax. The iconic Red Pumpkin is near the pier, and you can decide whether to visit it upon arrival or before leaving in the evening. For Teshima, despite the heat and exhaustion, it's highly recommended to rent an electric bike. Riding along the coastal road is a rare and enjoyable experience, and the bus service is quite inconvenient. After biking to the Teshima Art Museum, you can take a nap listening to the sounds of nature to recharge. Then, bike to the Heartbeat Archive to sit by the sea and listen to the heartbeats and messages of strangers, which was a touching moment for me on Teshima. For Ogijima and Megijima, if you're short on time, you might skip Megijima, which I found less interesting. Ogijima can be explored in half a day, but remember to wear comfortable shoes as it's all mountainous terrain. There aren't as many cats as expected, with about ten seen, but most are friendly, especially the orange cats at the shrine. #Setouchi #SetouchiTriennale #Naoshima #Teshima

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

The Setouchi Triennale is a renowned art festival held every three years, themed around 'Restoring the Sea.' It aims to rejuvenate the Seto Inland Sea islands by blending beautiful nature with human creativity, turning the sea into a 'Sea of Hope' for the world. This year's poster is designed by the famous designer Kenya Hara. Naoshima, one of the Setouchi islands, has developed into an island with a smelting plant while preserving its valuable cultural assets. As a contemporary art sanctuary, it is well-known for Yayoi Kusama's giant pumpkin sculptures. Although one was swept away by a typhoon last year, the smaller pumpkin remains. Additionally, Naoshima hosts Tadao Ando's Chichu Art Museum (remember to book in advance), Hiroshi Sugimoto's famous installation 'Time Corridor,' and Sou Fujimoto's iconic Naoshima installations, all worth visiting. This year marks another Setouchi Triennale, so if you're in Japan, be sure to purchase your festival and ferry tickets in advance from the official website. Don't forget your sunscreen to enjoy the fusion of sea and art! #Naoshima #SetoInlandSea #SetouchiTriennale

The triennial Setouchi Triennale is back! As one of Japan's largest art events, it spans across Kagawa and Okayama Prefectures, attracting over a million visitors from around the world. The 2025 edition, the sixth of its kind, will feature works from 13 artists and groups, including renowned architect Tadao Ando, Sou Fujimoto, and artist Yayoi Kusama. Event Schedule: 1. Spring: April 18 - May 25 (38 days) 2. Summer: August 1 - August 31 (31 days) 3. Autumn: October 3 - November 9 (38 days) Total: 107 days. Venue Arrangements: - All-period venues: Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Takamatsu Port, Uno Port - Spring-only: Seto Ohashi area - Summer-only: Shido-Tsuda area, Hiketa area - Autumn-only: Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibukijima, Utazu area The Setouchi Triennale is spread across various cities and islands in the Seto Inland Sea, making it difficult to see everything in a single day. Visitors are advised to plan a 2-3 day trip to fully enjoy the art and island hopping experience. #SetouchiTriennale #ArtExhibition #IslandHopping #TadaoAndo #YayoiKusama #Naoshima

The much-anticipated Setouchi Triennale is back for its sixth edition, celebrating the unique charm of the Seto Inland Sea islands. This festival aims to bring joy to visitors and restore the ocean's natural beauty. A total of 638 artists and 725 artworks have been submitted, with confirmed exhibits from renowned figures like architect Tadao Ando, Sou Fujimoto, and artist Yayoi Kusama, among 13 artists/groups. The festival is divided into three seasonal sessions: Spring (April 18-May 25), Summer (August 1-31), and Autumn (October 3-November 9), totaling 107 days. The venues include Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, and the Takamatsu and Uno Port areas. Spring features the Seto Ohashi area, Summer includes Shido-Tsuda and Hiketa areas, and Autumn highlights Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibukijima, and Utazu areas. Transportation routes are centered around Uno Port in Okayama and Takamatsu Port in Kagawa. Visitors from the east can enter through these ports, while those from the west can use various ports in western Kagawa or Kojima Tourist Port in Okayama. Naoshima has two ports: Miyanoura on the west and Honmura on the east. For a comprehensive experience, including island hopping, plan a trip of 4 to 6 days or more. A new art museum will open in Spring 2025 on a hill near Honmura, Naoshima, designed by Tadao Ando. This three-story museum will feature significant works from Asian artists, including commissioned pieces. Special Offer: Shanghai to Takamatsu 5-day flight tickets are available for 799 per person on October 20/22, October 27/29, and November 3/5/10/12. Six-day tickets are also available for the same price on October 22/24/26, October 29/31, November 2/5/9/12, and November 28/30. Each ticket includes a Ritsurin Garden ticket and a Shodoshima ferry ticket, mailed to you. Flight Information: Spring Airlines 9C8889 departs Shanghai at 08:45 and arrives in Takamatsu at 12:00. Return flight 9C8890 departs Takamatsu at 13:00 and arrives in Shanghai at 14:30. Includes 10KG checked baggage and 7KG carry-on. #SetouchiTriennale #Takamatsu #AffordableFlights #ArtFestival #Japan #Art

Japan's Niigata Earth Art Festival and Setouchi Triennale are two major outdoor art festivals curated by the same person, Fram Kitagawa. The term 'Earth Art Festival' has become a proprietary term. Both festivals share the concept of 'problem-solving art festivals,' focusing on local life and drawing out local resources through artistic creation. In October 2022, I traveled from Tokyo to the southern part of Japan, Setouchi, taking a flight of over an hour and spent about four days exploring the artworks of the Setouchi Triennale. Many famous artists' works have become popular spots, such as Yayoi Kusama's pumpkins. There are two pumpkins, a red one placed at Naoshima Port and a yellow one on the Naoshima seawall, titled 'Pumpkin at the End of the World.' We stayed in Takamatsu and took a ferry every morning to Naoshima, Teshima, Ogijima, and Megijima to check out the artworks. The festival is well-situated, creating large visual effects, even making buses and ferries artistic. Architecture enthusiasts would know that Setouchi has several works by Tadao Ando, such as the Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum, and the Naoshima Ferry Terminal by Kazuyo Sejima. In short, visiting once and staying for a few days is not enough to see all the festival's exhibits. After finishing the exhibitions, I chose a bold return journey by purchasing a JR train ticket and planned to ride back to Tokyo. Every time the train stopped, sometimes for half an hour or an hour, I would get off and explore the surrounding areas, discovering different cities in Japan. It was tiring but full of surprises. We should always maintain a mindset of continuously exploring new things. In Osaka, I saw the logo 'Cell' for the 2025 Expo.

The renowned Setouchi Triennale, on par with the Venice Biennale, Edinburgh International Festival, and Japan's Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, is returning in 2025. It will open on April 18, 2025, featuring the works of the famous architect Tadao Ando at the "Naoshima New Art Museum." Back in 2019, the Seto Inland Sea region was ranked 7th in the New York Times' 52 Places to Go. Unlike other festivals where installations are dismantled after the event, the Setouchi Triennale leaves behind captivating architecture, transforming the area into a "utopian art island." Many missed the 2022 edition due to the pandemic, so there's a lot of excitement for this one. However, booking tickets and planning the trip can be quite challenging. 📅 The 2025 event is divided into three sessions: - Spring: April 18 to May 15 - Summer: August 1 to August 31 (not recommended due to heat) - Autumn: October 3 to November 9 Total: 107 days ✈️ It's best to fly directly to Takamatsu and use it as a base for island hopping. ⛴ Check the ferry schedules between islands on the Takamatsu tourism website. Tickets are sold at the port 30 minutes before departure, costing 500-1350 yen per person, cash only! 🚴 Electric bicycles are available for rent on the islands. You can find rental shops near the ports via Google Maps. ❌ Avoid visiting on the main museums' closed days, or you'll find many restaurants closed too: - Naoshima: Mondays - Teshima, Inujima: Tuesdays - Shodoshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Oshima: Wednesdays - Honjima, Takamijima, Kurushima, Ibukijima: Thursdays Reservations are required for the Chichu Art Museum, Time Corridor, Art House Project, Teshima Art Museum, and island bicycles. 🗺 The festival now covers 14 locations, up from 8, with 638 groups and 725 works submitted from Japan and abroad. Tadao Ando will unveil his tenth architectural work in the Seto Inland Sea region, the "Naoshima New Art Museum," during the festival, which is highly anticipated. If you don't want to worry about reservations months in advance or get overwhelmed by the schedule, join the adventure tours for a hassle-free experience! ⌚️ Adventure tour dates: - April 23-28 - May 1-6 - May 13-18 - October 1-6 - October 21-26 - November 4-9 #Kyoto #Osaka #JapanCycling #SetouchiTriennale #SetoInlandSea #JoinXiaomeiCommunity #XiaohongshuArtTour @ArtPotato

Download the Setouchi International Art Festival app from the App Store. Fill in the information and select the early bird ticket (3,800 yen). Each account can purchase only one ticket. Overview: The Setouchi International Art Festival is expected to open on April 18, 2025. The festival will feature many preserved works from the past, along with 46 new works and 10 activities by artists from 21 countries and regions. The festival venues include islands in the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding cities, totaling 17 venues. To fully appreciate the festival, it is estimated that at least three days are needed, as transportation in the Seto Inland Sea is not very convenient. The 2025 festival, like previous years, is divided into three exhibition periods: spring (April 18-May 25), summer (August 1-August 31), and autumn (October 3-November 9), lasting a total of 107 days. It is recommended to purchase an art appreciation passport, which is more economical than the single-entry ticket price of 500 yen. Special early bird ticket: 3,800 yen, pre-sale ticket: 4,300 yen, same-day ticket: 5,500 yen, tickets for ages 16-18: 2,500 yen, free for under 16. Full exhibition period: Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Takamatsu Port, Uno Port area. Spring exhibition period: Seto Ohashi area. Summer exhibition period: Shido, Tsuda area, Hiketa area. Autumn exhibition period: Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibukijima, Utazu area, etc. #ArtExplorationJourney #PhotographyExhibition #ContemporaryArtCenter #PublicArtAsCulturalLandmark #JapanTravel #SetoInlandSeaArtFestival #ContemporaryArtAndTrendyArt #JapanTravelGuide

The Setouchi Triennale, a 100-day adventure of art and sea, has been held every three years since 2010. It aims to revitalize the Seto Inland Sea area through art projects, addressing issues like depopulation and aging. Popular installations during the festival may become permanent fixtures on the islands. Over the years, islands like Naoshima, Teshima, Shodoshima, Ogijima, and Megijima have accumulated a wealth of creative and well-received works. 🎨 Setouchi Triennale 2025 Schedule 🎨 Spring Session: April 18 - May 25 Summer Session: August 1 - August 31 Autumn Session: October 3 - November 9 The official ticket prices for early bird, pre-sale, and regular tickets have been announced (see image 5). While the festival pass is tempting, consider buying tickets on-site as it only costs about 80 RMB more. 📊 Data Visualization: My Hardcore Analysis for a Fun Trip 📊 Let me help you plan your trip with data! 📈 ⚙ Number of Installations: 151 installations are expected in 2025, 53 fewer than in 2022, but this is normal, and more may be added. 👫 Visitor Characteristics: The male-to-female ratio is 2:3. Foreign visitors peaked in 2019 but dropped in 2022. If you missed the 2022 edition, now's your chance. ☀️ Popular Islands: Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima have many installations and facilities. Takamatsu Port is the starting point for island hopping (see image 11). ⏱ Time Planning: Most visitors stay for about three nights. If unsure, plan a four-day, three-night trip, which should be sufficient in most cases (see image 10). 📒 Choosing Between Spring, Summer, and Autumn Sessions: In 2025, 151 installations will be featured, with 122 in spring, 119 in summer, and 145 in autumn. The autumn session has the most installations and venues, attracting more visitors. 🌟 Themed Tours: From Permanent to Advanced, Unlock the Festival's Infinite Possibilities 🌟 I've compiled a list for first-time, repeat visitors, and artist-themed tours: ① First-time Visitors: Don't miss the permanent projects, the essence of past festivals (see image 6). ② Repeat Visitors: Focus on new installations from the last two editions (2019, 2022) (see image 7). ③ Advanced List: An artist-themed tour list (Tadao Ando, Kazuyo Sejima, etc.) from Setouchi to Tokyo (see image 8). #SetouchiTriennale #SetoInlandSeaIslandHopping #TadaoAndo #KazuyoSejima #WorldExhibitions #SetoInlandSea #Shodoshima #Naoshima #Teshima #XiaohongshuArtTour

Before the Setouchi Triennale 2025, let's explore this sacred island, a pilgrimage site for many art enthusiasts. With limited time, there's a debate on whether to visit Naoshima or Teshima, or even attempt a whirlwind tour of both in one day. However, once on Naoshima, its charm convinced us to change to the latest ferry. The art installations, road designs, and graffiti corners are endless to explore. The most famous are Yayoi Kusama's red and yellow pumpkins, located at the start and end of the journey. A red polka-dotted pumpkin bus picks you up, adding to the fun. (Thanks to the driver for waiting for us to exchange money and even coming to find us!) Biking is also a great option due to the long bus intervals. Our route was casual, planning to wander and stop. We took a bus to "Art House Project," where a fascinating installation resembling a plastic bubble is actually a bike parking lot. A few steps away, you can taste Naoshima gelato from a small window shop run by one person, offering fruit sherbet and classic flavors like milk and matcha. Without many stops, we transferred at the station to visit the Chichu Art Museum. Initially, we didn't specifically look for the yellow pumpkin, but spotted it as a glowing dot in the distance during the bus ride, planning to visit on the way back. On the uphill journey, the driver pointed out a raccoon and cat eating together, which turned out to be a local tanuki. We rushed back to see this amusing pair, more fascinated by the journey than the art itself. We enjoyed blending in with the locals and wandering around. As the sun set, we walked along the beach to our last stop of the day. The yellow pumpkin glowed against the sea, but the backlight made it hard to capture. Instead, we sat on the grass, waiting for the sunset. Over half the visitors were Westerners, with bikini-clad women on the beach, people drinking beer in the sea, and a man swimming past the yellow pumpkin. Watching them, I realized I'm not that carefree, avoiding getting my shoes wet or swimming. Quoting "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," "Sometimes, I don't 📷, I just stay, in it." Some moments can't be captured by a camera; it's better to enjoy them. #Takamatsu #SetouchiTriennale #Naoshima #YayoiKusamaPumpkin

The "Setouchi International Art Festival" has been held every three years since 2010, surrounded by the beautiful blue ocean. The sixth edition in 2025 will showcase the unique creations of hundreds of artists and art groups from around the world on the islands scattered across Kagawa Prefecture, Okayama Prefecture, and the Seto Inland Sea. The festival was born out of a desire to preserve the rich history and cultural heritage of this sea area. Once a bridge for cultural exchange, the Seto Inland Sea's islands have developed a unique charm through their interactions. However, globalization has brought challenges such as industrial changes, population decline, aging, and vacant houses. In response, art teams have collaborated to create this festival to protect the individuality and vitality of the islands. 2025 Festival Schedule (Spring, Summer, Autumn): A total of 107 days - Spring: April 18 - May 25, 38 days - Summer: August 1 - August 31, 31 days - Autumn: October 3 - November 9, 38 days Ticket Guide: - Full Season Pass Prices: - Special Early Bird: 3,800 yen (October 24, 2024 - January 17, 2025) - Pre-sale Early Bird: 4,300 yen (January 18, 2025 - April 17, 2025) - Same-day Ticket: Adults 5,500 yen (from April 18), 16-18 years old 2,500 yen, 15 years and under free - Purchase Method: Download the "Setouchi" app - Coverage: Usable during the spring, summer, and autumn seasons of the festival, allowing one-time access to each participating artwork (facility) (some works like the Chichu Art Museum and Teshima Art Museum require additional fees) Highlights of this Edition: In addition to regular exhibitions, new areas will be introduced, including the Hiketa area in Higashikagawa City and the Utazu area near the Seto Ohashi Bridge. Naoshima will also have a new museum, "Naoshima New Museum," located in the Honmura area of Naoshima, designed by Tadao Ando. Exhibition Areas and Limited Periods: - Full Period: Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Takamatsu Port area, Uno Port area - Spring Period Limited: Seto Ohashi area - Summer Period Limited: Shido-Tsuda area, Hiketa area - Autumn Period Limited: Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibukijima, Utazu area Accommodation & Island Hopping Tips: 1. Port Accommodation: Return to Takamatsu or Okayama each night, a common choice for travelers since the island museums close at 5 PM and nightlife is limited. 2. Island Accommodation: Directly shuttle between islands, such as the Naoshima-Teshima-Shodoshima route, which is a classic! Be mindful of museum closure days: Naoshima on Mondays, Teshima on Tuesdays, Megijima and Ogijima on weekends, so plan ahead. #Japan #JapanTravel #JapanTourism #JapanTravelGuide #JapanTourismGuide #SetoInlandSea #YayoiKusama #JapaneseMuseums

Setouchi, with its 525 islands, is an inland sea located between Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It boasts rich island resources and serves as a major transportation route. The unique cultures of these islands have been preserved to this day. The Setouchi Triennale is a must-visit event, featuring several notable islands: 1. Naoshima - Landmark: The Pumpkin at the End of the World 2. Teshima - Landmark: No One Wins Basketball Hoop 3. Megijima - Landmark: Seagull Parking Lot 4. Ogijima - Landmark: Soul of Ogijima 5. Shodoshima - Scenic Spot: Angel Road 6. Inujima - Refinery Art Museum. Main ports and routes include: 1. Takamatsu Port to Shodoshima (Tonosho Port, Fukuda Port), Naoshima (Miyanoura Port, Honmura Port), Ogijima, Megijima, Oshima, Teshima (Karato Port, Ieura Port) 2. Takamatsu East Port to Shodoshima (Sakate Port), Kobe Sannomiya Port 3. Naoshima Miyanoura Port to Takamatsu Port, Uno Port, Teshima (Ieura Port), Inujima 4. Shodoshima Tonosho Port to Takamatsu Port, Uno Port, Shin Okayama Port, Teshima (Ieura Port, Karato Port) 5. Teshima Ieura Port to Takamatsu Port, Uno Port, Shodoshima (Tonosho Port), Naoshima (Honmura Port), Inujima 6. Marugame Port to Honjima 7. Tadotsu Port to Takamijima (Motoura Port, Nagasaki Port) 8. Mitoyo Suda Port, Miyano Shita Port to Awashima (Awashima Port, Kamishinden Port) 9. Kanonji Port to Ibukijima (Maura Port). Island hopping itinerary: Stay in Takamatsu near the port and visit one island each day. Day 1: Naoshima, Day 2: Teshima, Day 3: Shodoshima. If you have more time: Day 4: Ogijima, Megijima, Day 5: Inujima. If you still have time, it's highly recommended to experience island life. Naoshima and Teshima are great for spending 1-3 days, enjoying local udon and the sunrise and sunset. Staying with island residents will be an unforgettable experience. #SetouchiTriennale #SetouchiTriennale2025 #SetouchiJourney

Follow the steps to search and then enter your name and phone number. It seems you don't need to use your real name, but if you're concerned, you can Google the katakana version of your name. Finally, take the receipt to the counter for payment! #SetouchiTriennale2025 #2024MyInterestPoint #SetouchiTriennale #NFC #SetouchiIslandHopping #Naoshima #Teshima #ArtFestival #711ConvenienceStore #ArtTravelRecommendation

ART SETOUCHI, the Setouchi Triennale, is held every three years with the aim of revitalization through art. Naoshima is the most densely packed island with museums and art installations, attracting art enthusiasts from around the world. My itinerary focused on the Benesse Art Site, spending half a day leisurely walking around the island. Highlights include the Yellow Pumpkin, animal sculptures, and the sea lawn. Visit the Hiroshi Sugimoto Time Corridors (online reservation required, souvenir shop available), Benesse House Museum (with restaurant and souvenir shop), Valley Gallery (ticket shared with Benesse House Museum), Lee Ufan Museum (outdoor installations), and Chichu Art Museum (online reservation required, with café and souvenir shop). At Miyanoura Port, take the ferry from Takamatsu Port at 10:14 AM, with a round-trip ticket costing 990 yen per person. The island bus costs 100 yen per person to Tsutsujiso, and there is a free shuttle bus in the Benesse area. Return on the last ferry at 5:00 PM from Miyanoura Port to Takamatsu. It is recommended to walk from the Chichu Art Museum to the port, taking about 30 minutes, to enjoy the beautiful sunset along the way. #SetouchiTriennale #JapanTravel #TakamatsuIslandHopping #Naoshima #ChichuArtMuseum #TadaoAndo #HiroshiSugimoto #BenesseHouse #YayoiKusama #JapaneseArt

Shikoku is an ideal destination for solo travelers. I first learned about it during my junior and senior years in college when my mentor recommended it to me. In 2019, I embarked on a solo trip there, enjoying a relaxing island-hopping adventure. Next year, 2025, marks another edition of the triennial Setouchi International Art Festival, so it's a great opportunity to visit again. #UniqueTravel #CulturalAttractions #TravelDiary #Travel #JapanTravel #SetouchiTriennale #Naoshima #JapanNaoshima #Shikoku #Art #YayoiKusama #TadaoAndo #CaiGuoQiang #SoloTravel #WorldTour #RicohGR2 #GR2 #Ricoh #RicohImaging #RicohPhotography

📍Naoshima Day 2: Benesse House Museum - Yellow Pumpkin - Lee Ufan Museum 🏨 Stay in Takamatsu and take a ferry to Naoshima. Details on ferry and bike rental are in the previous post. 🚌 Island Transportation Rent a bike to the Lee Ufan Museum bike parking, or ride to the Chichu Art Museum parking. From there, take the free shuttle bus to Benesse House. Detailed routes and schedules are on. Our route: park the bike at Lee Ufan Museum - shuttle bus to Benesse House Museum - shuttle bus to Yellow Pumpkin - shuttle bus back to Lee Ufan Museum - bike back to the port. 2) Alternatively, take the 100 yen (cash only) town bus to the final stop at Tsutsujiso (Yellow Pumpkin location), and transfer to the Benesse House shuttle bus. 🏠Benesse House Museum The building itself is designed by Tadao Ando, facing the Seto Inland Sea. Besides the three indoor floors, don't miss the outdoor section! Photography and video recording are prohibited for some exhibits indoors (⚠️note). The cafe on the 2nd floor is highly recommended, offering views of the Seto Inland Sea while enjoying food. The cafe's drink cups are printed with Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin, very cute! Opening hours: 8:00～21:00, open year-round. Tickets: on-site purchase. 🎃 Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin Take the shuttle bus from Benesse House to Tsutsujiso, and you'll see a beach and the Yellow Pumpkin in the distance. There's also a small stone torii on the beach, very cute. Queue for the Yellow Pumpkin, and remember to check the bus schedule in advance. Lee Ufan Museum The venue is also designed by Tadao Ando, a treat for fans. It has indoor and outdoor sections; photography and video recording are prohibited indoors (⚠️note), but there are no restrictions outdoors. The outdoor works are visually striking, with a surreal feel. Opening hours: March 1 - September 30, 10:00~18:00 (last entry 17:30), October 1 - end of February, 10:00~17:00 (last entry 16:30). Closed on Mondays (※ if Monday is a holiday, open that day and closed the next day). #Naoshima #NaoshimaPumpkin #TravelPhotography #JapanTravel #SetoInlandSea #OffTheBeatenPath #TadaoAndo #SummerTravel #YayoiKusamaPumpkin #MustSeeExhibitions

The Setouchi Triennale is an exciting cultural event that attracts art enthusiasts from around the world. Naoshima, as one of the key venues, is renowned for its unique art installations and beautiful natural scenery. Here, visitors can not only admire top-notch contemporary art but also purchase various art-related souvenirs. To enjoy a perfect travel experience, it is recommended that visitors plan their trip in advance and avoid peak times to better appreciate the artworks. Additionally, many travel agencies offer discounted packages that include accommodation and transportation, helping visitors save on costs. Finally, don't forget to enjoy local cuisine at the island's cafes and restaurants to experience the unique cultural atmosphere. #SetouchiTriennale #NaoshimaJapan #TravelPlanning

Naoshima is one of the main stages of the Setouchi Triennale, featuring numerous architectural and installation artworks. Highlights include Yayoi Kusama's polka-dot pumpkin, museums designed by Tadao Ando, and Hiroshi Sugimoto's Time Corridor. These art pieces, utilizing the island's natural environment, have revitalized the small island and its community, making it Japan's most successful local art festival. To fully explore Naoshima, it's best to stay for a day or plan a two-day visit. 1️⃣ You can reach Naoshima from Takamatsu Port by high-speed boat or ferry, with the high-speed boat taking 30 minutes and the ferry taking 1 hour. Upon arrival, renting an electric bicycle is recommended, and it's best to book in advance as they tend to run out after the second ferry. The island has many hills, so an electric bicycle is essential. 2️⃣ There are no convenience stores on the island, and most eateries only accept cash. 3️⃣ After this year's National Day, museum prices have increased, and previously non-reservation museums now require advance booking. 4️⃣ If you wish to book Benesse House, it's best to do so six months in advance. Regarding museum reservations: There is a unified website for various bookings. If you need to cancel a reservation, do so at least one hour in advance. If you encounter issues with cancellation, it might be due to website delays; try again later or the next day. Refunds will be processed to the original account within a week. #JapanTravel #SetoInlandSea #Naoshima #ChichuArtMuseum

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