Summary of Travel Routes from Tokyo to Naoshima
If you’re planning a trip from Tokyo to Naoshima, there are two main routes that international travelers typically consider. Below is a comparison of both, outlining the key details like transportation method, duration, cost, and transfers involved. This quick overview helps you choose the route that best fits your schedule and budget.
| Route | Transport Modes | Total Duration | Approximate Cost | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo → Okayama → Uno Port → Naoshima | Shinkansen + JR Local Train + Ferry | 5.5 – 6.5 hours | ¥11,000 – ¥16,000 (with JR Pass: free until Uno) | 2 transfers |
| Tokyo → Takamatsu → Naoshima | Shinkansen or Flight + Ferry | 6 – 7 hours | ¥12,000 – ¥20,000 | 1 or 2 transfers |
Pro tip: The route via Okayama and Uno Port is the most popular choice, especially if you’re using the Japan Rail Pass, as it’s fully covered up to Uno Station.
Route via Okayama and Uno Port
This is the most efficient and commonly used route to get from Tokyo to Naoshima, especially if you are a Japan Rail Pass holder. It involves a ride on the Shinkansen, a local train, and a ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea.
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Okayama
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (Nozomi, Hikari, or Sakura) to Okayama Station. This leg of the trip takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
- Fare: Around ¥17,000 one-way (covered by JR Pass, except for Nozomi)
- JR Pass: Valid on Hikari and Sakura trains
- Tips: Reserve your seat during peak travel seasons
JR Pass Usage
The JR Pass covers your journey up to Uno Station if you avoid Nozomi trains. Make sure to reserve seats using the green ticket machines at major JR stations or at the counter.
Seat Reservations and Fares
For those without a JR Pass, buying tickets at Tokyo Station or online is easy. Reserved seats ensure comfort for the long ride.
Local Train: Okayama to Uno Station
From Okayama Station, take the JR Uno Line to Uno Station. Trains depart regularly, and the journey takes about 50 minutes.
- Fare: Around ¥580 (covered by JR Pass)
- Note: Trains are local and may not have many amenities
Ferry from Uno Port to Naoshima
Walk from Uno Station to Uno Port (about 5 minutes) and catch a ferry to Naoshima. Ferries arrive at either Miyanoura Port or Honmura Port depending on the schedule.
Timetable, Tickets, and Travel Time
- Travel Time: Around 20 minutes
- Fare: Approximately ¥300 – ¥560 (one-way)
- Timetable: Ferries run from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM with variable frequency
Insider Tip: If you arrive late in the evening, consider staying overnight in Uno or Okayama to catch an early ferry the next day.
Route via Takamatsu
This alternative route is a great option if you’re planning to explore Shikoku or coming from destinations like Osaka or Kyoto. You can either fly to Takamatsu Airport or take a combination of bullet train and local trains.
Shinkansen or Domestic Flight to Takamatsu
There are two main ways to reach Takamatsu from Tokyo:
- By Plane: Flights from Haneda or Narita to Takamatsu Airport (1.5 hours), then airport bus to Takamatsu Station (40 mins)
- By Train: Take the Shinkansen to Okayama Station, then transfer to the JR Marine Liner across the Seto Ohashi Bridge to Takamatsu Station (total around 5.5 hours)
Cost: ¥12,000 – ¥20,000 depending on mode of transport and season
Ferry from Takamatsu Port to Naoshima
Takamatsu Port is located just a few minutes’ walk from Takamatsu Station. Ferries to Naoshima operate several times daily, and travel time is roughly 50 minutes.
Ferry Options and Arrival Ports
- Arrival Ports on Naoshima: Ferries may arrive at Miyanoura or Honmura Port
- Fare: About ¥520 – ¥620 one-way
- Frequency: Approximately every 1–2 hours from morning to evening
Note: Ferries from Takamatsu are more scenic, offering views of the Seto Inland Sea. Ideal if you’re not in a rush and want a picturesque route.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
To ensure your journey from Tokyo to Naoshima goes smoothly, here are some useful tips to help you plan better and avoid common pitfalls.
Luggage Delivery Services
Traveling with large suitcases can be a hassle, especially on local trains and ferries. Japan offers luggage forwarding services like Yamato Transport (“Ta-Q-Bin”) that allow you to send your bags from Tokyo to your hotel in Okayama, Uno, or even directly to your Naoshima accommodation.
- Cost: Typically ¥1,500 – ¥2,500 per item
- Delivery Time: Usually takes 1 day
- Tip: Pack an overnight bag for essentials if your main luggage is delayed
Ferry Reservation Advice
While most ferries to Naoshima don’t require reservations, weekends and holidays can be busy. It’s advisable to arrive early or book ferry tickets in advance when available, especially for return trips.
When to Avoid Crowds
Naoshima is most crowded during:
- Golden Week (late April – early May)
- Obon holidays (mid-August)
- Autumn leaves season (October – November)
Traveling on weekdays and outside peak travel seasons allows for a quieter experience and better access to museums like Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House.
Quick Tip: Download ferry schedules and museum ticket info ahead of time—WiFi can be limited on the island.
Sample Itineraries
If you’re unsure how much time to spend on Naoshima or how to structure your visit, here are two practical itineraries to help you make the most of your trip from Tokyo.
One-Day Trip from Tokyo
This option is ideal for travelers short on time, though it requires an early start and tight planning. We recommend this only if you catch the first Shinkansen and limit your visit to key sights.
- 05:30 – Depart Tokyo via Shinkansen
- 09:30 – Arrive at Uno Port via Okayama and JR Uno Line
- 10:00 – Ferry to Naoshima (Miyanoura Port)
- 10:30 – Rent a bicycle or take the local bus
- 11:00 – Visit Chichu Art Museum
- 13:00 – Lunch at a local café
- 14:00 – Explore Art House Project (Honmura)
- 16:00 – Return ferry to Uno Port
- 20:30 – Back in Tokyo
Note: Not recommended on days with limited ferry schedules or in bad weather.
Two-Day Stay Plan
For a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight on the island or in nearby Uno or Okayama. This itinerary lets you explore at your own pace.
- Day 1:
- Morning – Depart Tokyo
- Afternoon – Arrive at Naoshima and check in at your accommodation
- Evening – Sunset walk and dinner at a local guesthouse
- Day 2:
- Morning – Visit Benesse House and Lee Ufan Museum
- Lunch – Café near Honmura
- Afternoon – Ferry and return journey to Tokyo
This plan is ideal for art lovers and those seeking a peaceful island escape.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Visiting Naoshima from Tokyo is a unique and enriching experience that combines art, nature, and travel across Japan’s beautiful Seto Inland Sea. Whether you prefer speed, convenience, or scenic routes, there’s a perfect way to reach the island based on your priorities.
Which Route is Best for You?
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: Choose the Okayama–Uno–Naoshima route with a JR Pass for maximum savings
- Travelers Visiting Shikoku: Combine your Shikoku trip with the Takamatsu–Naoshima route
- First-Time Visitors: The Okayama route offers more frequency and easier navigation
Checklist Before You Go
- ✅ Reserve Shinkansen seats in advance (especially during holidays)
- ✅ Download ferry schedules and check arrival ports
- ✅ Prepare Japanese yen in cash for ferries and local buses
- ✅ Confirm accommodation bookings if staying overnight
- ✅ Consider using luggage delivery to travel light
Final Tip: Don’t rush your Naoshima trip. Allocate enough time to enjoy the art installations, museums, and tranquil island scenery.
We hope this guide makes your journey from Tokyo to Naoshima seamless and memorable. Safe travels!
Heading to Naoshima for art? Make your visit unforgettable with a custom tattoo from Matsunosuke near Uno Port.
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2025.04.10
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