Naoshima

Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that has been transformed into one of the world's most extraordinary open-air art destinations. Spearheaded by the Benesse Art Site project, the island blends world-class contemporary art museums with the natural beauty of terraced hillsides and quiet fishing harbours.

Yayoi Kusama's iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture on the waterfront has become a symbol of the island, but Naoshima's appeal runs far deeper. Tadao Ando-designed museums are built into the landscape, the Art House Project turns abandoned homes into immersive installations, and the entire experience feels like walking through a gallery with the Inland Sea as its backdrop.