How to Plan Your Naoshima Island 2-Day Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

If you’re a lover of art and architecture, a tour of Naoshima Island is a must-do activity in Japan. Naoshima Island is an art enthusiast’s paradise located in the Seto Inland Sea, and is known for its contemporary art museums, galleries, and public art installations. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your two-day tour from Osaka or Kyoto.

Overview

The Naoshima Island 2-Day Tour is an excellent way to explore the island’s incredible selection of contemporary art installations and museums. Your tour includes transportation via bullet train from Kyoto or Osaka, an English-speaking guide, admission fees to select museums, and all meals during the tour.

What’s Included

Here’s what’s included in the Naoshima Island 2-Day Tour:

• Bullet train from Kyoto/Osaka (round trip)
• English-speaking guide
• All meals during the tour
• Admission fees to select museums including Chichu Art Museum (2100JPY) and Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridors (1500JPY)

Meeting and Pickup

There are several meeting points to choose from, and you’ll select one when you book your tour. The tour starts at 8:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect

You can expect a full two days of art, architecture, and exploration. Your tour guide will take you to various art installations and museums, and you’ll get to experience the island’s unique culture and stunning landscapes.

Additional Info

Here are a few essential things to know before booking your tour:

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible
• The tour is located near public transportation
• If you want to change your schedule even on the tour day, your guide is always happy to help you.
• You can skip the spot where you don’t go (※in this case, we do not refund any fees), or change it with another place.
• If you add some new spots by your request, please pay the ticket fee on the spot. (Note that you may need to pay extra transportation fee)

Cancellation Policy

Please note that this tour experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.

Planning Your Tour

To make the most of your Naoshima Island 2-Day Tour, it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s everything you need to know:

Booking Your Tour

You can book your tour through the Viator website with the following link: book the tour here. Select your preferred tour date and meeting point, and complete your booking.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Depending on your location, you can take a train or a taxi to get to the meeting point. Your tour guide will provide you with specific instructions on how to get there when you book your tour.

What to Bring

Here are a few essentials you’ll need to bring on your tour:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sunscreen and a hat
• A camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery
• A water bottle to stay hydrated

Pro Tips

Here are some useful tips for making the most of your Naoshima Island 2-Day tour:

1. Arrive at the meeting point early to ensure you don’t miss your train.
2. Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions and stay on schedule.
3. Be respectful of the artwork and museums by following their rules and guidelines.
4. Bring cash to pay for any additional expenses or souvenirs you may want to purchase.
5. Take time to enjoy the island’s stunning landscapes and scenery.

Conclusion

A tour of Naoshima Island is a unique and unforgettable experience for all art lovers visiting Japan. By following these steps, you can plan your two-day tour from Osaka or Kyoto with ease, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to one of Japan’s most iconic art destinations. Be sure to book your tour in advance, and don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the memories.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osaka: Answers for Tourists and Travelers

Osaka is a bustling metropolitan city located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is the third-largest city in the country, and it is known for its rich history, delicious food scene, and vibrant nightlife. If you are planning to visit Osaka, then you might have several questions in mind. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the city with all the answers you need.

1. What is the best time to visit Osaka?

The best time to visit Osaka is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) season. During these seasons, the weather is comfortable, and you can enjoy various outdoor activities. However, if you want to experience the cherry blossom season in Osaka, then plan your trip between late March and early April.

2. How to get to Osaka from the airport?

Osaka has two airports, Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (Itami). The best way to get to Osaka from Kansai International Airport is by taking the JR Haruka Express train, which takes about 40-50 minutes. If you arrive at Osaka International Airport, you can take the Osaka Monorail or a bus to reach the city center.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Osaka?

Osaka has numerous tourist attractions that offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s culture and history. Some of the must-visit places include:

• Osaka Castle
• Shitennoji Temple
• Dotonbori Street
• Universal Studios Japan
• Kaiyukan Aquarium

4. What is the Osaka Amazing Pass?

The Osaka Amazing Pass is a travel pass that allows visitors to enjoy unlimited rides on subways, buses, and trams in Osaka for one or two days. Additionally, the pass also includes free entry to more than 30 tourist attractions in the city.

5. What is the local cuisine in Osaka?

Osaka is known for its food scene, and some of the must-try local dishes include:

• Takoyaki – a ball-shaped snack filled with octopus, topped with sauce and mayonnaise
• Okonomiyaki – a savory pancake made with cabbage and a variety of toppings
• Kushikatsu – skewered and deep-fried meat, vegetables, and seafood
• Udon – thick noodles served in a hot or cold soup
• Kitsune Udon – udon noodles served in a hot broth with deep-fried tofu

6. What is the nightlife like in Osaka?

Osaka is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are numerous options for entertainment. Some of the must-visit places for nightlife include:

• Amerikamura – an area filled with clubs and bars
• Minami (Namba) – a bustling entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and clubs
• Umeda Sky Building – a modern skyscraper with a bar at the top, offering panoramic views of the city

7. What is the etiquette when visiting Osaka?

When visiting Osaka, it is essential to follow the local customs and etiquettes. Some of the things to keep in mind include:

• Bow slightly when greeting someone
• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or some restaurants
• Use chopsticks correctly and do not stick them upright in the rice, as this is considered impolite
• Do not talk loudly on public transport or when in public areas
• Do not smoke in public areas

8. Is it safe to travel to Osaka?

Osaka is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it is essential to take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving your valuables unattended.

9. What is the currency used in Osaka, and where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Osaka (and in Japan) is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You can exchange your currency at a bank or a currency exchange kiosk. Additionally, you can withdraw money from ATMs, but make sure to check if your card is compatible with Japanese ATMs.

10. Do I need to know Japanese to visit Osaka?

While it is always helpful to know some basic Japanese phrases, it is not necessary to know the language to visit Osaka. Most people in the city (especially in the tourist areas) can speak English, and many signs and menus are also available in English. However, learning a few basic phrases can help you communicate better with the locals and make your trip more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Osaka is a vibrant city with a rich history, delicious food scene, and numerous tourist attractions. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions about the city, you can plan your trip better and make the most out of your visit. Remember to follow the local customs and etiquettes, stay safe, and enjoy the unique experiences that Osaka has to offer.