Guided Tour to Naoshima Art Island with Private Car
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Japan's celebrated art island, Naoshima, with an expert guide who brings rich insights from a museum background. Witness Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Red Pumpkin and explore world-class contemporary art in stunning spaces designed by Tadao Ando.
Travel in comfort via private car and ferry to three cultural landmarks: the subterranean Chichu Art Museum, the tranquil Lee Ufan Museum, and the hillside Benesse House Museum. These architectural masterpieces showcase works from Claude Monet to light-sensitive installations that shift with the seasons.
Your guide’s deep knowledge enhances each visit, offering valuable context on the art, architecture, and cultural impact of this unique island. Enjoy seamless transport from Uno Port and a full day immersed in Japan’s most inspiring fusion of art and nature, concluding at Miyanoura Port.
Available options
Naoshima tour
What's included
Pickup from Uno Port by your English-speaking guide
Private car
Admission tickets to Benesse, Chichu, and Lee Ufan Museum
Ferry ride from Uno port to Miyanoura Port
Transportation in Naoshima
Detailed itinerary
1
The local guide will take you around the Island and museums and art-featured spots and sites giving you a more in depth knowledge that the other tourist cannot experience.
Also, stop at a local restaurant and enjoy lunch with fresh produces.
2
The Chichu Art Museum is a museum that focuses on the rethinking of relationship between nature and people. To avoid meshing with the scenery of the island the museum is mostly built underground. The museums holds artworks by the famous Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. What makes this museum interesting is how the appearance of art changes by the natural light that shines inside, which gives the museum a different aspect depending on the season.
3
As a collaboration project between artist Lee Ufan and architect Tadao Ando, Lee Ufan Art Museum is nestled in a serene valley, showcasing Lee's works from the 1970s to present. Ando's semi-underground design beautifully complements Lee's art, offering visitors a tranquil space for contemplation amidst nature's embrace, a serene retreat from the bustle of modern life.
4
Nestled along the picturesque coast of Naoshima Island stands Benesse House, a harmonious blend of modern art museum and resort hotel. As the centerpiece of the Benesse Corporation's art facilities on the island, this architectural masterpiece was crafted by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Each building within the complex boasts its own distinctive artwork and guest rooms, yet what truly sets Benesse House apart is its elevated perch atop a hill, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea—an unparalleled setting for an unforgettable experience.
What's not included
Drop-off (Tour ends at Miyanoura port)
Ferry ride from Miyanoura port to Uno port
Food and beverages (at your own expense)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
In this tour, admission fee to the museum is not included.
Guide will suggest you several museums to visit and please discuss with him.
If you late over 10 min to the starting time, your booking will be treated as no show.
Meeting point
9:10AM : Meet with your guide at Uno port
About Okayama Prefecture
Okayama Prefecture, located in the Chūgoku region of Japan, is known for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and delicious cuisine. It offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Korakuen Garden
One of Japan's Three Great Gardens, Korakuen is a stunning landscape garden with ponds, bridges, and seasonal flora. It offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Historical/Garden
1-2 hours
¥310
Okayama Castle
Known as the 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior, this castle offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history. The museum inside provides insights into the castle's past.
Historical
1 hour
¥400
Kibitsu Shrine
A historic shrine known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It is a popular spot for traditional weddings and cultural events.
Religious
1 hour
Free
Kojima Beach
A popular beach destination known for its white sand and clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kibi Dango
Sweet rice dumplings skewered on bamboo sticks, often coated in kinako (roasted soybean flour) or mitarashi (sweet soy glaze).
Dessert
Vegetarian
Okayama Ramen
A local ramen variant with a soy-based broth, often topped with chicken, green onions, and menma (bamboo shoots).
Main Course
Contains meat
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, often served with a tangy sauce and mayo.
Main Course
Can be vegetarian if requested
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Kayaking
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Garden strolls
Traditional crafts
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring offers pleasant weather and cherry blossoms, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Okayama is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, travelers should still exercise common sense and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi companies and tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Okayama Airport • 17 km from Okayama city center
By train
Okayama Station
By bus
Okayama Station
Getting around
Public transport
The train network is efficient and covers most of the prefecture. The JR Pass can be cost-effective for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kita-ku
Naka-ku
Minami-ku
Day trips
Kurashiki
25 km from Okayama • Half day
A charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-era warehouses and beautiful canals. It offers a glimpse into Japan's past with its historic architecture and museums.
Mimasaka
60 km from Okayama • Full day
A mountainous area known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic views. It is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Tsuyama
50 km from Okayama • Half day
A historic city known for its castle, temples, and traditional crafts. It offers a mix of cultural attractions and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Okayama Jazz Street • Autumn (October)
Korakuen Garden Illumination • Winter (December to February)
Kurashiki Bikan Festival • Spring (April)
Pro tips
- Visit Korakuen Garden early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try Okayama's local specialties, such as Kibi dango and Okayama ramen, at local restaurants and street food stalls.
- Explore the historic Bikan Quarter in Kurashiki for a charming and picturesque experience.
- Use the Okayama Loop Bus for easy and affordable access to the city's main attractions.
- Visit Okayama Castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
