Setouchi Triennale 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Island Art Festival
The Setouchi Triennale 2025 is one of Japan’s most unique and inspiring art festivals, held across the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or culture explorer, this event offers an unforgettable journey through island life, contemporary art, and scenic landscapes.
What Is Setouchi Triennale 2025?
Also known as the Setouchi International Art Festival, the Setouchi Triennale is held every three years, showcasing contemporary artworks across multiple islands like Naoshima, Teshima, Shodoshima, and others. The 2025 edition marks the festival’s 6th installment, promising new site-specific installations, performances, and interactive experiences by both Japanese and international artists.
Event Period (2025)
The festival runs in three seasonal sessions:
- Spring: April 18 (Fri) – May 25 (Sun)
- Summer: August 1 (Fri) – August 31 (Sun)
- Autumn: October 3 (Fri) – November 9 (Sun)
This structure allows visitors to experience the Setouchi region in different seasons.
Where to Go – Key Islands to Visit
All Seasons
- Naoshima: The iconic art island, home to Chichu Art Museum and Yayoi Kusama’s famous pumpkin sculptures.
- Teshima: Known for the stunning Teshima Art Museum.
- Shodoshima: Offers a mix of art, olive groves, and traditional soy sauce breweries.
- Megijima & Ogijima: Quaint islands filled with art tucked into alleys and homes.
- Oshima: Features the Art for the Hospital Project, focusing on the experiences of people who have recovered from Hansen’s disease.
- Inujima: Home to the Inujima House Project, a series of independent exhibitions.
- Takamatsu Port area: A main hub with several temporary exhibitions and installations.
- Uno Port area: Another gateway featuring several sculptures celebrating the art festival.
Spring Only
- Seto Ohashi Bridge area: Includes Shamijima, once an island now connected to Shikoku, with art installations on the former island part.setouchi-artfest.jp+2en.wikipedia.org+2setouchi-artfest.jp+2
Summer Only
- Shido・Tsuda area: Features unique art installations.
- Hiketa area: Offers distinctive artworks and experiences.
Autumn Only
- Honjima: Home to the historical district of Kasashima, with exhibitions having a historical theme.
- Takamijima: Known for its tiered slopes and stone walls, featuring installations like “Time falls” by Kayako Nakashima.
- Awashima: Art projects based around the Awashima Maritime Museum.
- Ibukijima: Features architectural installations like “House of Toilet” by Daigo Ishii.
- Utazu area: Offers various art experiences.
Some museum and facilities may closed during the periods. Remember to check the latest information on the official Setouchi Triennale 2025 website before you plan to go.
How to Enjoy Setouchi Triennale
- Plan Your Route Ahead: Choose 2–4 islands per day to avoid rushing. Ferry schedules and transfers vary by island.
- Buy a Festival Passport: This all-access pass lets you visit artworks and exhibitions across all islands at a discounted rate.
- Stay on the Islands: Overnight stays on Naoshima or Teshima offer a peaceful, immersive experience.
- Rent a Bike: Bicycles are ideal for exploring the larger islands like Shodoshima.
- Try Local Food: Enjoy island delicacies like seafood, olives, and handmade udon noodles.
- Capture the Art & Scenery: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture art surrounded by sea and sky.
Who Should Visit?
This is a perfect trip for:
- Art Lovers: Seeking global contemporary creations.
- Nature and Photography Enthusiasts: Looking for scenic beauty.
- Travelers: Wanting to explore Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.
- Families and Couples: Looking for a scenic, slow-travel experience.
Final Tips for Setouchi Triennale 2025
- Book Accommodations Early: Especially during the summer session.
- Check the Official Website: For ferry updates and artist lists.
- Combine Your Visit: With a stop in Osaka, Okayama, Takamatsu, or Hiroshima.
- Experience Japan’s Creative Island-Hopping Adventure: Don’t miss your chance at Setouchi Triennale 2025!
Follow our blog for future updates and travel tips as more details are revealed.
