Setouchi Triennale: The Art Islands (9 days, 8 nights)

Who is this for?
Designed for art enthusiasts, travelers seeking an unconventional experience, and those with an appreciation for both modern art and island culture. With a visit to 4 other art islands (Inujima, Shodoshima, Megijima and Ogijima) on top of the famous Naoshima and Teshima, this trip satisfies individuals or groups who are interested in exploring unique, off-the-beaten-path locations within Japan.

- This is a private tour. Only you and your group will participate. 
- This trip can be tailored according to your preferences. Please feel free to inquire about any specific requests ahead of time. 

Physical Activity: Medium
Length of Trip:  9 days, 8 nights
Capacity:  2-6 people 

Visualize yourself:
- Stepping into a world where islands become works of art
- Discovering modern masterpieces by legendary artists
- Wandering through traditional Japanese houses reimagined as creative spaces
- Ferrying across the serene Seto Inland Sea, uncovering island after island of inspiration
- Experiencing the quiet beauty of rural life, transformed by the touch of art

OSAKA    |    1 night
Day 1: Travel Day
Arrive in Kansai International Airport. Then into a private vehicle for a transfer to a hotel recommended by us in the city. Use this day to rest up or take some time to explore Osaka. 

OKAYAMA    |    1 night
Day 2: Garden Paths and Canal Streets in Okayama
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend a day exploring Okayama, beginning with a ride on the iconic Shinkansen. In Okayama, marvel at the beauty of Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, known for its carefully curated landscapes and seasonal blooms. Then, stroll through the Bikan Historical Quarter, to see Edo-period merchant houses and canals that hold a deep history with folk craft and business. A visit here reveals the creativity and craftsmanship that continue to shape Japan's identity. Spend the night at Uno Port. 

TESHIMA    |    1 night
Day 3: Inujima 
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Board a ferry to Inujima, a small island home to a population of 30 people. Inujima is known for its innovative art installations that merge contemporary creativity with the remains of a historic copper refinery. Throughout the day,  explore the island’s Art House Project, where abandoned buildings have been transformed into captivating art spaces. From Inujima, take a ferry to Teshima and enjoy an overnight stay on the island. 

TAKAMATSU    |    4 nights
Day 4:Teshima
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the day on Teshima. Visit the Teshima Art Museum, where the interplay of light, water, and space creates a dynamic sensory experience. Other installations scattered across the island, each revealing a unique perspective on the relationship between art and daily life. In the evening, transfer to Takamatsu for an overnight stay. 

Day 5: Naoshima 
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Take the ferry from Takamatsu to Naoshima, the most renowned of Japan’s art islands, celebrated for its art museums, outdoor installations, and minimal architecture by Tadao Ando. Wander through the Art House Project, where traditional homes have been transformed into unique artistic expressions. Admire the famous pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama before returning to Takamatsu, having spent the day experiencing works by some of the world’s most renowned artists.

Day 6: Megijima and Ogijima
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Two islands in one day. Begin the day by taking a ferry to Ogijima, a small island known for its charming village of narrow alleys overlooking the sea. See art such as colorful murals and sculptures, while discovering the island's unique character. Later, head to Megijima, often associated with the legend of Momotaro, and visit its mysterious caves and see outdoor art exhibits against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea. This day provides a chance to see how art breathes new life into these small island communities. End the day back at Takamatsu. 

Day 7: Exploring the City of Takamatsu 
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Take a break from island hopping and spend the day in Takamatsu, where the art experience continues with a visit to Ritsurin Garden, a renowned historical landscape garden that showcases Japanese design with natural beauty. Visit Shikoku Village, an open-air museum that showcases traditional rural architecture from across the region. Then wander through the Isamu Noguchi Garden, a space where the renowned artist’s sculptural works are harmoniously integrated with nature. 

OSAKA    |    1 night
Day 8: Shodoshima to Osaka
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take a ferry from Takamatsu to Shodoshima, the largest of the Triennale venues, and explore its vast landscapes, including terraced rice fields, a majestic gorge, and beautiful sunset spots. See how the island is famous for its olives, somen noodles, and soy sauce aged in wooden vats. Afterward, transfer to Kobe and then continue to Osaka, where the day ends. 

Day 9: Osaka
Included meals: Breakfast
Your next destination? Home sweet home. But remember, it's not sayonara yet, it's "See you soon!" The question is, where to from here?

OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP!
Add another trip of ours on top of this journey and we will be happy to send you off.