Naoshima Art Island

A pilgrimage circuit visiting 88 temples scattered across Shikoku island. With approximately 1,200 years of history, it honors Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism. The full circuit spans about 1,400 kilometers. Tens of thousands of pilgrims walk the route annually, seeking spiritual enlightenment and salvation.

An international center for contemporary art located in Naoshima, Kagawa Prefecture. The Benesse Art Museum was established in 1992, followed by several art museums and facilities. Particularly renowned are the Chichu Art Museum and the House Project designed by architect Tadao Ando. Attracting approximately 500,000 art enthusiasts annually, it exemplifies 21st-century art tourism in Japan.

An art museum island in the Seto Inland Sea off Naoshima, Kagawa Prefecture. Internationally renowned contemporary art museums including Benesse House and Lee Ufan Museum. Architecturally designed by Tadao Ando. A major venue for the Setouchi International Art Festival. Attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts. Symbolizes Japan's contemporary art success and art island development.

An island in the Seto Inland Sea near Takamatsu, Kagawa. Features architecture by Tadao Ando and art by Yayoi Kusama scattered throughout. Museums, outdoor sculptures, and art installations create an experience where the entire island functions as a museum. Approximately 800,000 visitors annually, internationally recognized as a contemporary art destination.

A contemporary art mecca in the Seto Inland Sea. Centered on the Benesse Art Site, works by Yayoi Kusama and museums designed by Tadao Ando are scattered across the island. As a core venue of the Setouchi Triennale, Naoshima has become a global model for art tourism.

The Seto Inland Sea area with its gentle multi-island seascape. Tourism combining nature and art — from cycling the Shimanami Kaido to the Setouchi Triennale — has drawn increasing attention. The islands are sometimes called 'Japan's Aegean Sea' for their beautiful waters.

Japan's southernmost prefecture, with a distinct culture rooted in the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom. With its emerald seas, the World Heritage Shuri Castle ruins, unique cuisine and music, Okinawa draws visitors from home and abroad as a resort island offering charms different from mainland Japan.