Naoshima and Teshima, two of Japan’s most captivating islands, offer a unique fusion of contemporary art and traditional aesthetics. Visitors can enjoy world-renowned installations, acclaimed museums, and captivating art experiences. With a rental car, they’ll discover scenic trails, iconic sculptures, and local cuisine at their own pace. This 3-day package promises a remarkable journey, blending the islands’ artistic wonders with the flexibility to explore them as they please. Whether it’s the tranquil Teshima Art Museum or the iconic Benesse House, the path ahead promises to enchant and inspire.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Kagawa Prefecture.
Key Points
- Explore the unique blend of contemporary art and traditional Japanese aesthetics across Naoshima Island, including renowned art installations and museums.
- Discover the architectural masterpiece of Benesse House Museum and its impressive art collection for a transformative art experience.
- Venture to Teshima Island to immerse in the captivating Teshima Art Museum and the thought-provoking Teshima Yokoo House installation.
- Enjoy the flexibility of a 3-day car rental package to self-guide your exploration of Naoshima and Teshima at your own pace.
- Savor local cuisine and unwind with the inclusion of meals, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling three-day cultural getaway.
Exploring Naoshima Island
With its unique blend of contemporary art and traditional Japanese aesthetics, Naoshima Island captivates visitors who embark on a journey to explore its remarkable landscape.
Home to world-renowned art installations, the island boasts several acclaimed museums, including the iconic Benesse House and the Chichu Art Museum, both designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando.
Visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty by hiking along its scenic trails, encountering striking art pieces at every turn.
From the iconic red Pumpkin sculpture to the serene Naoshima Bath ‘I Love Yu‘, the island offers a multisensory experience that seamlessly integrates art, architecture, and the breathtaking surroundings.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kagawa Prefecture.
Visiting Benesse House Museum
One of the must-see attractions on Naoshima Island is the Benesse House Museum, a remarkable architectural masterpiece designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando.
This stunning museum is seamlessly integrated into the island’s natural landscape, creating a harmonious dialogue between art, architecture, and the surrounding environment.
Visitors can explore the museum’s impressive collection, which includes works by renowned contemporary artists such as:
- Claude Monet
- Andy Warhol
- Yayoi Kusama
- Lee Ufan
The Benesse House Museum offers a truly immersive and transformative experience, inviting visitors to engage with art in a unique and thought-provoking way.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply appreciate exceptional design, a visit to this museum is a must-do on your Naoshima adventure.
Discovering Teshima Island
After exploring the renowned Benesse House Museum on Naoshima, visitors can take a short ferry ride to discover the captivating island of Teshima.
Teshima, known for its unique art installations and natural beauty, offers a complementary experience to the art-centric Naoshima.
Once on the island, travelers can rent a car to easily navigate the winding roads and visit the Teshima Art Museum, a striking architectural masterpiece that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Other highlights include the intimate Les Archives du Coeur, a collection of recorded heartbeats, and the Teshima Yokoo House, a thought-provoking installation by artist Tadanori Yokoo.
With its serene atmosphere and innovative art, Teshima provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling energy of Naoshima.
Renting a Car on Naoshima
Travelers can rent a car on Naoshima to easily explore the island’s diverse art installations and scenic landscapes at their own pace. This allows them to visit remote sites, such as the renowned Benesse House Museum, and venture beyond the main port area.
The rental process is straightforward, with pickup and drop-off conveniently located at the Miyanoura Port.
The package includes:
- 3-day car rental on Naoshima
- Pickup and drop-off at Miyanoura Port
- A handy paper guide with ideas and practical information
- Flexibility to discover the island at your own leisure
This self-guided exploration by car offers visitors the freedom to create their own unique Naoshima experience.
Meals and Dining Options
With car rental taken care of, visitors can now focus on the culinary delights Naoshima and Teshima have to offer.
The package includes meals, allowing travelers to savor the local cuisine and enjoy the unique flavors of the region.
On Naoshima, visitors can dine at the island’s numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries, which offer fresh seafood, traditional Japanese fare, and fusion dishes.
On Teshima, the culinary options are equally impressive, with local specialties like the renowned Teshima udon noodles.
Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or a multi-course dinner, the meals included in the package ensure that visitors can fully experience the gastronomic riches of these captivating islands.
Transport and Accessibility
The package includes convenient transportation options, as visitors can pick up and drop off their rental car at the Miyanoura Port on Naoshima. This allows for easy exploration of the island at your own pace.
The package also includes:
- A rental car for 3 days on Naoshima.
- A rental car for 3 days on Teshima for an excursion.
- Pickup and drop-off at the same location, the Miyanoura Port.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the package does offer infant seats for families.
The transportation setup makes it simple to discover the art and nature of these two beautiful islands in the Seto Inland Sea. With the flexibility of a rental car, visitors can fully enjoy the unique experience Naoshima and Teshima have to offer.
Practical Information and Tips
A convenient paper guide accompanies the package, providing visitors with practical information and ideas for their visits to Naoshima and Teshima. The guide includes maps, opening hours, and recommendations for the various museums and art installations across the islands. Travelers can plan their days efficiently, thanks to the guide’s suggestions.
Renting a car is a great way to explore both Naoshima and Teshima, with the option to collect the vehicle at the Miyanoura Port. The package also includes meals, ensuring visitors can refuel between their cultural experiences.
With confirmation within 48 hours and a flexible schedule, this three-day getaway offers a seamless way to take in the art and natural beauty of these captivating Japanese islands.
Flexibility and Cancellation Policy
This package’s flexibility allows for last-minute booking confirmations, subject to availability. Cancellations due to poor weather conditions don’t result in lost funds, as travelers can choose a different date or receive a full refund.
The key highlights of this policy include:
- Confirmation within 48 hours, ensuring timely planning.
- Non-wheelchair accessible, but near public transportation.
- Infant seats available for families.
- Maximum of 4 travelers per booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Museums?
Visitors are generally not allowed to bring outside food or drinks into the museums on Naoshima and Teshima. The museums have their own cafes and restaurants where visitors can purchase refreshments during their visit.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?
There are no age restrictions for the activities. Children of all ages are welcome, though infant car seats must be provided. The tour is suitable for families, with no special requirements or limitations based on age.
Do I Need a Special Permit to Drive the Rented Car?
No, you don’t need a special permit to drive the rented car. As long as you have a valid driver’s license, you can operate the rental vehicle according to local traffic laws and regulations during the rental period.
Is There a Limit on the Number of Bags I Can Bring?
There’s no explicit limit on the number of bags travelers can bring when renting a car. However, the provider advises considering the seating capacity and trunk space of the rental vehicle when packing. Travelers should pack reasonably to ensure a comfortable driving experience.
Can I Extend My Rental Car Reservation if Needed?
Based on the information provided, it does not seem that car rental extensions are allowed. The package has a strict 3-day rental period for both Naoshima and Teshima, and no changes or extensions are permitted.
Recap
This 3-day package on Naoshima and Teshima islands offers a unique opportunity to take in a blend of contemporary art and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
With a rental car, visitors can explore the islands’ scenic trails, iconic sculptures, and local cuisine at their own pace.
The flexibility to plan the journey ensures a personalized and enriching experience for art enthusiasts.