Naoshima

Naoshima is an island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its museums of contemporary art, architecture, and sculptures. The island, which is part of Kagawa Prefecture, is a relaxing getaway from Japan's large urban areas, with its Mediterranean atmosphere, sandy beaches, and sunny weather, combined with a laid-back, rural feel. Naoshima, also known colloquially as Japan's Art Island, attracts 800,000 visitors from all over the world. One of the most appealing aspects is its obscurity; in an age of oversaturation on social media, many of the exhibits are prohibited from being shared outside the gallery walls.

The Benesse Corporation, which oversees art museums, installations, and sculptures on Naoshima and neighboring islands, installed much of the island's art. The Benesse House's museums, which include the Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum, and all of the Benesse House's buildings, were designed by the well-known Japanese architect Ando Tadao. Furthermore, Ishii Kazuhiro, a modern architect, designed Naoshima's municipal buildings and schools. The island is the main location for the Setouchi Triennale art festival.

• Location: Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
• Best time to visit: April to May