Naoshima day guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day Traveling to Naoshima
Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, known for its peaceful vibe, modern art museums, seaside views, and outdoor sculptures. Traveling to Naoshima takes a little planning, but the trip is simple once you know the steps. This guide helps you spend your whole day getting to Naoshima and enjoying the island once you arrive.
Let’s dive into the perfect itinerary for your day!
Take a Train to Okayama Station
Your first step is to reach Okayama Station, a major train station in western Japan.
If You’re Coming from Tokyo:
Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Okayama Station
Travel Time: About 3.5 to 4 hours
If You’re Coming from Kyoto or Osaka:
Take the Sanyo Shinkansen from Kyoto or Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours
Tip: Try to leave between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM so you have plenty of time to reach the island and explore.
Take a Train to Uno Station
Once you arrive at Okayama Station, transfer to the local train line for the coast.
How to Get to Uno Station:
Take the JR Uno Line from Okayama Station to Uno Station
Travel Time: About 1 hour
Tip: Trains on the Uno Line don’t run often—maybe only once per hour. Check the train schedule in advance or ask at the station.
Walk to Uno Port and Take a Ferry to Naoshima
When you arrive at Uno Station, walk to Uno Port. It takes about 5 minutes on foot. The path is easy to follow and has signs.
Take a Ferry to Naoshima:
Most travelers take the ferry to Miyanoura Port, which is the main entry point on Naoshima. This port has bike rentals, local buses, cafés, and convenience stores, making it a convenient starting place for exploring the island.
Some ferries also go to Honmura Port, which is closer to the Art House Project area. This can be a good option if your hotel is in Honmura or if you want to start your visit with the art houses, but ferry options to Honmura are more limited compared to Miyanoura.
Ferry Time: About 20 minutes
Buy your ticket at the ferry terminal or a vending machine
Tip: Try to catch a ferry that gets you to Naoshima by 12:00 PM if possible.
Arrive at Miyanoura Port and Get Around the Island
Once you arrive at Miyanoura Port, you can choose how you want to travel around Naoshima.
Options for Getting Around Naoshima
Electric or regular bike rental (available near Miyanoura Port)
Local bus - Cheap, easy to use, and connects major spots like Miyanoura, Honmura, and Benesse area
Walking - Best if your hotel or a museum is close by — ideal for short distances
Tip: Ask for a free map at the port or rental shop.
Have Lunch on Naoshima
Before sightseeing, enjoy lunch on the island. Most restaurants are near Miyanoura or Honmura.
Lunch Options:
Shioya Diner – Western-style food like curry, burgers, and local beer
Café Ougiya – Set meals and traditional Japanese dishes
Benesse House Café – Light meals and a nice view (open to all, not just hotel guests)
Vegan / Vegetarian Options:
Aisunao Café (Honmura) – Vegan-friendly rice plates, miso soup, and sweets
Yuurin-an – Relaxing café with tea and vegetarian-friendly snacks
Café Konichiwa – Light meals and coffee, with some plant-based options
Visit Chichu Art Museum
This museum is one of the most famous places on Naoshima. It’s built mostly underground and blends perfectly with nature.
Time Needed: About 1–1.5 hours
Entry Fee: Around ¥2,100
What to See:
Works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria
Modern architecture by Tadao Ando
Important: You must reserve tickets online in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed.
Explore Benesse House and Outdoor Art
From the Chichu Art Museum, you can walk or bike to the Benesse House Museum and the surrounding area.
What to Do:
Visit Benesse House Museum (separate ticket)
See outdoor art installations on the beach and in the fields
Look for Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin – a popular photo spot
Visit the Art House Project in Honmura
This area has old Japanese houses that have been turned into unique art spaces.
Entry Fee: ¥1,050 (all houses)
Time Needed: About 1–1.5 hours
What to See:
Minamidera (light installation by James Turrell)
Kadoya, Gokaisho, Haisha, and more
Stop for a Coffee or Snack
After visiting museums and walking around, take a short break.
Café Options:
Café Mie – Coffee and sweets in Honmura
Minatoya Café – Ice cream, drinks, and ocean view
Café de Rose – Cakes, coffee, and a relaxing garden
Check in to Your Hotel
Hotels usually allow check-in between 3:00 and 4:00 PM. If you arrive early, most places will hold your luggage.
If your hotel is:
Near Miyanoura Port: Walk or take a short bike ride
In Honmura: Use the bus or ride a bike
Benesse House: Use their free shuttle (check times in advance)
Tip: Always confirm your check-in time before you arrive.
Have Dinner on the Island
Dinner options are limited on Naoshima, especially at night. Many places need a reservation.
Dinner Options:
Minatoya – Fresh seafood and home-style cooking
Shima Kitchen – Seasonal meals in a traditional building (often needs reservation)
Café Salon Nakaoku – Peaceful, home-style Japanese meals
