Chichu Art Museum

Established in 2004 as a place for ‘rethinking the relationship between nature and people,’ the majority of the building is buried underground to avoid disrupting the natural beauty of Seto Inland Sea landscape. Inside, you will find permanent installations of works by renowned artists like Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria, all set within the architectural masterpiece designed by Tadao Ando.
Despite being underground, the museum is bathed in natural light, transforming it into a ‘site-specific’ art gallery that evolves with the passage of time and the changing seasons. Art lovers from around the world visit to experience this captivating fusion of art and nature.

Naoshima Island

Naoshima, known as the ‘Art Island,’ hosts the globally renowned ‘Setouchi Triennale’ since 2010, but its purpose is not merely an art festival for artists. Instead, it aspires to be an art festival designed to see the smiles of the island’s people, striving to restore the beauty and vitality of the Seto Inland Sea islands which was lost during the rapid modernization that occurred in Japan approximately 50–60 years ago.
Today, it stands as a unique and unparalleled Art Island in the world, celebrated for its fusion of nature, art, and architecture, attracting art lovers worldwide.

©YAYOI KUSAMA
“Red Pumpkin” ©Yayoi Kusama,2006 Naoshima Miyanoura Port Square
Photo/Daisuke Aochi

No unauthorized reproduction.

Mt. Shiude

Not only within Japan, but also globally recognized, this renowned cherry blossom destination garners top spots in features about cherry blossoms in France’s Le Figaro and The New York Times. From the summit observation deck, you can marvel at a 360-degree view of the Seto Inland Sea, accompanied by the breathtaking beauty of approximately 1,000 cherry blossoms in spring or around 2,000 hydrangea plants in early summer, creating an exquisite contrast unique to this place, waiting for you to experience.

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Chichibu-ga-hama Beach

Reflecting like a mirror in the tranquil tide pools along a gently sloping shore, ‘Chichibu-ga-hama,’ often referred to as the ‘Mirror of the Sky’ and likened to Japan’s own Uyuni Salt Flats. This picturesque coastal gem, once threatened by reclamation due to the trash from the Seto Inland Sea, has been reborn into a breathtaking coastline, thanks to the diligent efforts of local residents, earning its place among the ‘100 Best Sunsets in Japan.’ As you gaze upon this magnificent vista, you’ll undoubtedly be touched by the warm emotions and dedication of many, who have tirelessly safeguarded this natural treasure.

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Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden, designated as a national special place of scenic beauty, is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese garden. With Mt. Shiun as a backdrop, the garden showcases a harmonious arrangement of six ponds, thirteen miniature hills, and 1,400 pine trees, creating a kaleidoscope of beauty that changes with each step. Enjoy the ever-shifting landscape as you leisurely stroll through the garden.