Benesse House Museum

Benesse House Museum opened in 1992 as the first contemporary art facility on Naoshima Island, developed by the Benesse Corporation and designed by architect Tadao Ando. The facility combines a museum with hotel accommodations, allowing guests to stay overnight surrounded by art installations. This project initiated Naoshima's development as an art destination.

The museum houses over 420 contemporary artworks by international artists, with pieces permanently installed in locations chosen by the artists. Notable works include Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin sculpture on a seaside pier, Bruce Nauman's neon installations, and pieces by David Hockney, Hiroshi Sugimoto, Richard Long, and César. Artworks are displayed both indoors and across the coastal landscape. Ando's terraced concrete architecture follows the hillside, with galleries connected by corridors offering sea views.

The museum comprises several sections: Museum, Oval, Park, and Beach buildings. Non-staying visitors can access the museum building and outdoor installations. Hotel guests have access to additional artworks in the accommodation areas. The museum does not require advance reservations, unlike the Chichu Art Museum, though booking ahead is recommended during peak periods.

Benesse House is located on Naoshima's southern coast. From Miyanoura Port, take the Benesse Art Site Naoshima shuttle bus, approximately 20 minutes, to the museum. From Honmura Port, use the town bus. Free shuttle buses connect ticket holders to other Benesse sites, including Chichu Art Museum and Lee Ufan Museum.

Admission costs ¥1,300 for adults and ¥500 for ages 15 and under. This covers the museum building and outdoor artworks but excludes hotel areas. Each Benesse art site requires separate admission with no combined tickets available.