Private Full Day Tour in Naoshima Island for JR Pass Holder Only

Exploring the captivating island of Naoshima is a unique opportunity exclusively available to Japan Rail (JR) Pass holders. This private full-day tour provides a comprehensive experience, immersing visitors in the fusion of contemporary art and stunning natural landscapes. From the Benesse House Museum’s thought-provoking displays to the serene Lee Ufan Museum, the tour offers a well-curated itinerary that promises to engage and enlighten. With an English-speaking guide, convenient transportation, and the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace, this exclusive tour presents an exceptional chance to uncover the artistic wonders of Naoshima. What intrigues you most about this exclusive island experience?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Osaka.

Key Points

• This private full-day tour on Naoshima Island is exclusively available for JR Pass holders, departing from Shin-Osaka Station.
• The tour includes bottled water, ferry fare, admission fees, an English-speaking guide, and bicycle rental.
• Participants must be able to ride an electric bicycle, as the tour follows a single bus route with no option for both bicycle and bus.
• The tour includes a visit to the Benesse House Museum, a unique art and architecture experience designed by Tadao Ando.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Tour Details

The private full-day tour on Naoshima Island is exclusively available for JR Pass holders and departs from Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka, Japan.

Travelers will receive bottled water, ferry fare, admission fees, and an English guide.

The tour also includes bicycle rental, lunch, and bullet train/local train tickets, which can be used with the JR Pass.

While the Chichu Museum entrance ticket has an additional fee of 2,500 JPY, the Benesse House Museum and Lee Ufan Museum admissions are included.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Travelers must be able to ride an electric bicycle and have luggage that can fit in a backpack or bicycle basket.

Inclusions

This private full-day tour on Naoshima Island includes several key features for JR Pass holders. It provides bottled water, covers the ferry fare, and offers admission fees to various attractions. Travelers will also receive an English-speaking guide to accompany them throughout the day. Plus, the tour includes bicycle rental fees, lunch, and bullet train and local train tickets (which can be used with the JR Pass). However, there is an additional fee of 2500 JPY for entrance to the Chichu Museum.

Inclusions	Details
Bottled water	Provided
Ferry fare	Covered
Admission fees	Included
English guide	Provided
Bicycle rental	Covered
Lunch	Provided
Train tickets	Can use JR Pass
Chichu Museum	Additional 2500 JPY

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers meet at Shin-Osaka Station in Yodogawa Ward, Osaka, where the tour begins at 6:30 am.

The same location serves as the end point for the day’s activities.

This full-day private tour of Naoshima Island is only available to Japan Rail (JR) Pass holders.

The tour includes ferry fare, admission fees, an English-speaking guide, bicycle rentals, and lunch.

Participants must be able to ride an electric bicycle, as no buses are offered.

Luggage must be compact, fitting in a backpack or bicycle basket, as large suitcases aren’t permitted.

Confirmation of the tour is subject to availability and will be provided within 48 hours of booking.

Tour Restrictions

As this private full-day tour on Naoshima Island caters specifically to Japan Rail (JR) Pass holders, there are a few key restrictions participants should be aware of.

For instance, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Riders must also confirm their ability to operate an electric bicycle, as no option for a bus is available.

On top of that, luggage must fit in a backpack or bicycle basket – suitcases aren’t permitted.

It’s also important to note that there’s only one bus route, with no option to alternate between bicycles and buses.

Participants should keep these restrictions in mind when deciding if this tour is the right fit for their needs and abilities.

Additional Information

Bookings for this private full-day tour on Naoshima Island are confirmed within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Only the participant’s group will take part in the tour, which includes entrance tickets to the Benesse House Museum and Lee Ufan Museum.

Child pricing is the same as adult pricing, though ferry time is limited and can’t be extended.

This tour is ideal for JR Pass holders looking to explore the unique art and architecture of Naoshima Island.

Participants must be able to ride an electric bicycle, as luggage must fit in a backpack or bicycle basket – no suitcases are allowed.

With a single bus route and no option for both bicycle and bus, this tour provides a focused, immersive experience.

Benesse House Museum

The Benesse House Museum, located within the Benesse Art Site on Naoshima Island, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy a harmonious blend of contemporary art and architecture.

Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the museum features a stunning collection of works by renowned artists, including Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria.

Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which are seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, and experience the interplay between the built environment and the surrounding nature.

The museum’s emphasis on the intersection of art, architecture, and the natural world creates a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience for all who visit.

Lee Ufan Museum

Nestled within the serene surroundings of Naoshima Island, the Lee Ufan Museum showcases the renowned artist’s minimalist and conceptual works, inviting visitors to engage in a contemplative exploration of space, material, and the natural environment. Designed by the architect Tadao Ando, the museum’s striking architecture seamlessly blends with the island’s natural landscape, creating a harmonious setting for the art. Visitors can enjoy Lee’s signature sculptures and paintings, which often incorporate natural elements like stones and steel, reflecting his philosophy of the interconnectedness between man and nature. The museum’s collection provides a unique opportunity to explore the artist’s artistic vision and appreciate the profound simplicity of his work.

Exhibition Highlights	Materials Used	Architectural Features
"Dialogue" sculpture series	Steel, stone	Concrete, glass, natural light
"Correspondence" painting series	Mineral pigments, canvas	Harmonious integration with landscape
Lee Ufan’s site-specific installations	Rocks, sand, water	Emphasis on visitor experience
Outdoor installations	Steel, wood, earth	Connection between art and nature
Rotating temporary exhibitions	Varied media	Thoughtful curation and programming

Ferry Time

Aside from the art and architecture, the ferry ride to Naoshima Island plays a key role in the overall tour experience. Visitors can expect a limited ferry schedule, with specific departure and arrival times that must be adhered to in order to fully maximize the day’s activities.

The ferry takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the island, and its schedule is strictly enforced. Participants must ensure they board the ferry on time, as the tour won’t be able to wait for latecomers.

This tight schedule ensures the tour runs smoothly and allows visitors to see as much as possible during their time on Naoshima. Careful planning and punctuality are essential for making the most of the ferry transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Island on My Own Without a Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore Naoshima Island independently without a tour. The island offers museums, art installations, and scenic attractions that can be accessed by using the island’s public transportation or renting bicycles.

What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements for Lunch?

If you have special dietary requirements for the lunch, you should inform the tour operator ahead of time. They’ll do their best to accommodate your needs and provide a suitable lunch option during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer discounts for students or seniors. The price is the same for all participants regardless of age or student status. Travelers should check with the tour operator if they have any special requirements.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Unfortunately, the tour duration cannot be extended. The ferry schedule is fixed, and the tour is designed to fit within the allotted time. Extending the tour would not be possible without additional arrangements and costs.

Is There an Option to Visit the Island by Private Car Instead?

No, there’s no option to visit the island by private car. The tour only offers transportation via public ferry and electric bicycles. Suitcases aren’t allowed, and the ferry schedule can’t be extended.

Recap

This private full-day tour on Naoshima Island offers JR Pass holders an exclusive opportunity to explore the island’s captivating blend of contemporary art and natural landscapes.

Participants can experience the renowned Benesse House Museum and other notable attractions, with the convenience of an English-speaking guide, ferry fare, and electric bicycle rental included.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it provides a unique and visually stunning experience for those able to participate.