Getting Around: Naoshima

Public Transportation

The Naoshima Town Bus serves as the main public transport system on the island. It connects the main areas where art sites are located. This bus presents the most reliable and affordable public transport option for visitors. It provides access to most attractions, operating a loop route.

A separate Benesse Art Site Naoshima shuttle bus operates exclusively within the Benesse House area. This shuttle connects the Benesse House hotels (Museum, Oval, Park, Beach) to the Benesse House Museum, Lee Ufan Museum, and the Chichu Art Museum. This shuttle is mainly for guests staying at Benesse House. Other visitors may need to walk from the Tsutsujiso bus stop to reach some of these sites.

Bus Routes & Fares

Route: Connects Miyanoura Port, Honmura Area (Art House Project, Ando Museum), Tsutsujiso (for Benesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum).
Fares: ¥100 per zone for adults. A one-day pass costs ¥300. Pay cash upon exiting (have exact change or use change machine).
Hours: Buses run roughly every 30-60 minutes. Services are limited in the late evening.
Schedules: Obtain a current bus schedule upon arrival at Miyanoura Port or check the Naoshima Town Hall website. Schedules may change.

Affordable Travel

The Naoshima Town Bus offers affordable island transit.

Plan Your Day

Obtain a schedule and group attractions for efficiency. Arrive early at stops during peak times.

Accessibility Note

Naoshima Town Buses may not be fully wheelchair accessible. Contact tourist info for details.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Availability

A very small number of licensed taxis operate on Naoshima, mainly around Miyanoura Port.
Pre-arrange a taxi through your accommodation or call a local service. Tourist information can also assist.
Taxi fares are relatively high for short distances. Cash is the preferred or only payment method.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not prevalent or functional on Naoshima. Do not rely on them.
Taxis in Japan are very safe and reliable. Drivers operate professionally. Public buses are also safe.
The main concern regarding transport safety is securing a way back to your accommodation after dark due to limited services.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

Not recommended on Naoshima. Parking is limited.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Very limited or non-existent options.

Bicycle Rental

Highly recommended. Available near Miyanoura Port.

Electric Bicycles

Recommended for hills (¥1,500 - ¥2,500/day).

Walking & Cycling

Naoshima suits both walking and cycling, presenting an intimate way to explore its art and scenery. Enjoy flexible travel and closer interaction with the island's unique atmosphere.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Easy Walking: You can easily walk between art sites within specific areas.
Honmura Area: The Art House Project sites are best explored on foot.
Benesse Art Site: Offers walking paths between its museums and outdoor sculptures.
Paved Roads: Connect most major attractions, making walking easy.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes: Naoshima does not have extensive dedicated bicycle lanes, but roads generally see low traffic.
Hilly Terrain: Some sections are hilly; electric bicycles make this easier.
Road Rules: Always ride on the left side of the road, following Japanese traffic laws. Be mindful of pedestrians.
Restricted Areas: No specific "no-go" areas, but some Benesse Art Site areas may restrict to guests or shuttles. Respect signs.

Walking & Cycling Resources

Maps: Self-guided tours are simple with maps from the tourist information center at Miyanoura Port.
Rental Shops: Several rental shops operate, mainly near Miyanoura Port, with some also near Honmura.
Rental Prices: Regular bicycles typically cost ¥500 - ¥1,500 per day.

Electric Bicycles: Available for ¥1,500 - ¥2,500 per day. Highly recommended for hills.
Rental Process: Show ID, pay fee, agree to terms. Return to same shop by closing time.
Availability: Electric bicycles are in high demand during peak season. Arrive early to secure one.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off tour buses operate on Naoshima. The Naoshima Town Bus fulfills a similar role.

Water Taxis

Ferry connections to nearby art islands like Teshima and Inujima are available from Miyanoura Port.

Other Transport

Naoshima does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

Mobility Advice:

Naoshima presents challenges for travelers with significant mobility needs due to its hilly terrain and stairs at some art sites.

Contact museums directly in advance for accessibility details. Planning makes a difference.

Getting Around Naoshima