4-day Naoshima Extension

• This Japan Extension can only be booked in conjunction with one of our hikes or bike trips in Japan.
• Prices shown are “from” prices – contact us with your dates for an exact quote.
• The itinerary is designed for a minimum of 2 people.
• Pricing is based on 2 people travelling together – solo travellers, please get in touch for a personalised quote.

Arrive in Uno, the port area of Tamano City and the main gateway to the Setouchi art islands. Take some time to wander the waterfront, where you’ll encounter striking art installations, such as the giant fish sculpture, an iconic landmark of Uno and the Goddess of Love statue at Uno Port. These works serve as a fitting introduction to the creativity that awaits on the islands.

After checking into your accommodation, unwind with a soak in the wonderful onsen, gazing out over the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. In the evening, you’ll find some excellent dining options nearby to round off the day.

Please note: If you would prefer to have this night in Okayama city instead, please advise at the time of booking.

After breakfast, take the short 20-minute ferry ride to Naoshima. Right across from the port, you’ll find the local bike shop. Pick up your wheels and set off to explore this extraordinary island.

With its sandy beaches, sunny weather, and laid-back charm, Naoshima would be appealing enough on its own. Add to that a world-class collection of contemporary art and it becomes one of the most unique destinations anywhere in Japan. This small island in the Seto Inland Sea is bursting with installations, sculptures and museums at every turn.

Among the highlights are Yayoi Kusama’s iconic pumpkins, standing as playful symbols of the island. But these are only the beginning. A full day can easily be spent exploring the Benesse House Museum, the Art House Project, the striking Lee Ufan Museum and the quirky I Love Yu bathhouse, all tied together by the visionary designs of Tadao Ando.

Naoshima is perfect for cycling, and riding at your own pace is one of the best ways to uncover its art, hidden corners and sea views. Along the way, you’ll find fantastic spots for lunch, coffee and ice cream, with dining here being a highlight in its own right.

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in multiple museums or simply cycle leisurely between installations, you’ll enjoy a day packed with art, scenery and discovery, all framed by the sparkling waters of the Seto Inland Sea.

Please note: Accommodation this evening will either be in Naoshima or Uno, subject to availability.

Meals: B

Today, take the ferry to Teshima Island, another jewel of the Seto Inland Sea and a must for art lovers. The island’s star attraction is the Teshima Art Museum, an elegant, otherworldly concrete structure blending into the natural landscape and designed to resemble a single water droplet resting on the hillside.

Beyond this, Teshima offers plenty more to discover: the immersive Les Archives du Cœur, where visitors can listen to recordings of heartbeats from around the world and the bold, colorful Teshima Yokoo House, filled with the eccentric works of Tadanori Yokoo. 

The best way to explore is by e-bike, giving you the freedom to circle the island at your own pace. Along the way you’ll pass old farmhouses, rice fields and groves of lush trees, with spectacular views out across the Inland Sea. Stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the island’s small restaurants or cafés, many of which highlight fresh local produce.

Allow at least half a day to soak up Teshima’s blend of art, scenery and quiet island life

Please note: Accommodation this evening will either be in Naoshima or Uno, subject to availability.

Meals: B

Enjoy a leisurely morning before boarding the ferry to either Uno or Takamatsu on Shikoku Island, continuing your onward journey

Please note: If you’d like to include a night in Takamatsu to explore the beautiful Ritsurin Gardens, please let us know at the time of booking.

Meals: B

• 3 nights twin-share accommodation 
• Daily meals (as listed in the itinerary)
• 2-days e-bike hire (optional)
• RAW Travel’s exclusive interactive navigation app
• City Tax (at some hotels)
• Local and Australian emergency contacts
• Carbon offset for your trip and a native tree planted

• Single supplement – please ask for a quote
• Local bus, train and ferry tickets
• Luggage transfers (details will be provided)
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Entrance fees to local sites
• Expenses and items of a personal nature
• Flights
• Travel insurance
• Hotel city tax (paid locally)