Gigative · Experiences
Guided Tour to Naoshima Art Island with Private Car
About this experience
Discover Japan's celebrated art island, Naoshima, with an expert guide who brings rich insights from a museum background. Witness Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Red Pumpkin and explore world-class contemporary art in stunning spaces designed by Tadao Ando. Travel in comfort via private car and ferry to three cultural landmarks: the subterranean Chichu Art Museum, the tranquil Lee Ufan Museum, and the hillside Benesse House Museum. These architectural masterpieces showcase works from Claude Monet to light-sensitive installations that shift with the seasons. Your guide’s deep knowledge enhances each visit, offering valuable context on the art, architecture, and cultural impact of this unique island. Enjoy seamless transport from Uno Port and a full day immersed in Japan’s most inspiring fusion of art and nature, concluding at Miyanoura Port.
What to expect
Stop 1 · 2h
The local guide will take you around the Island and museums and art-featured spots and sites giving you a more in depth knowledge that the other tourist cannot experience. Also, stop at a local restaurant and enjoy lunch with fresh produces.
Stop 2 · 1h 30min
The Chichu Art Museum is a museum that focuses on the rethinking of relationship between nature and people. To avoid meshing with the scenery of the island the museum is mostly built underground. The museums holds artworks by the famous Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. What makes this museum interesting is how the appearance of art changes by the natural light that shines inside, which gives the museum a different aspect depending on the season.
Stop 3 · 2h
As a collaboration project between artist Lee Ufan and architect Tadao Ando, Lee Ufan Art Museum is nestled in a serene valley, showcasing Lee's works from the 1970s to present. Ando's semi-underground design beautifully complements Lee's art, offering visitors a tranquil space for contemplation amidst nature's embrace, a serene retreat from the bustle of modern life.
Stop 4 · 2h 30min
Nestled along the picturesque coast of Naoshima Island stands Benesse House, a harmonious blend of modern art museum and resort hotel. As the centerpiece of the Benesse Corporation's art facilities on the island, this architectural masterpiece was crafted by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Each building within the complex boasts its own distinctive artwork and guest rooms, yet what truly sets Benesse House apart is its elevated perch atop a hill, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea—an unparalleled setting for an unforgettable experience.
What’s included
- Pickup from Uno Port by your English-speaking guide
- Private car
- Admission tickets to Benesse, Chichu, and Lee Ufan Museum
- Ferry ride from Uno port to Miyanoura Port
- Transportation in Naoshima
Not included
- Drop-off (Tour ends at Miyanoura port)
- Ferry ride from Miyanoura port to Uno port
- Food and beverages (at your own expense)
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Naoshima tour
Meeting & pickup
- 9:10AM : Meet with your guide at Uno port
End point
- 5:35 PM Guide will take you to Miyaura port and please take a ferry to Uno port by your own.
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- In this tour, admission fee to the museum is not included.
- Guide will suggest you several museums to visit and please discuss with him.
- If you late over 10 min to the starting time, your booking will be treated as no show.
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.