Unique Artistic Exploration of Japan

Nestled on the island of Shikoku in Japan lies the breathtaking port city of Takamatsu, a gateway to the island’s staggering sapphire seascape and emerald forested headlands. You will be delighted by the sights and sounds that present themselves as you transfer from the airport to your stunning accommodation, where you will have access to the idyllic scenes of Takamatsu day in and day out. You may spend your first moments here acclimatizing to your surroundings during strolls along the spirited port boulevard and dining in charming Japanese eateries.

Takamatsu serves as an entry point to many of Japan’s marvelous islands and, today, you will be whisked away to the endearing art haven of Naoshima Island. With rental bikes available, you may slowly explore the cultural design and astonishing art housed in venerated galleries and stationed in significant heritage sites across the small isle. The Red Pumpkin and Naoshima Pavilion are two points of intrigue, showcasing the vibrant and modern sculptural visions of Japanese artists. Your day will continue at the famous Yellow Pumpkin and conclude in the coveted modern art exhibitions of the Chichu Art Museum.

Striking architecture dominates the museums poised amidst the golden terraced rice fields pouring over the landscape of Teshima Island. Transfer today to submerge yourselves in Japanese modern and contemporary art at magnificent museums such as Teshima Art Museum and Les Archives Du Coeur. Venturing back to Takamatsu later today, you will have an opportunity to meander the Kitahama Alley, an old warehouse location turned into a collection of chic cafés and boutique shops that reflect the local artistic talent through the presentation of distinct handicrafts and artisanal delights.

Your adventures will bring you from the buzzing cityscape of Takamatsu to the untouched wilderness that spans the viridian Iya Valley. As a stretch of sprawling forest landscape composed of rising and falling hills and peacefully flowing river, your eyes will scarcely know where to land. Upon arrival, you may appreciate the environmental splendors circling the Kazura Bridge before cruising across the calm waters to Oboke Gorge. The sounds of birdsong will soundtrack your gentle glide across the river before you turn back towards your accommodation to relish a traditional Japanese multiple course dinner and a vitalizing hot spring bath.

You will uncover the intricacies of Japanese paper-making as you tour a nearby factory this morning and unravel the mysteries of Washi, a traditional Japanese paper originally produced from Gampi Tree fibers. Your tour will continue to the iconic Awa Odori Kaikan, a museum of rich Japanese heritage tracing back the origins and influences of age-old Awa Odori dance. A Japanese performance culture is still very much prevalent and honored amongst the local people. A cable-car accessed via the museums will send you to the summit of Mount Bizen, where unparalleled vistas over Tokushima will round off a fabulous art tour.

Your adventurous art tour across Japan's idyllic islands will be coming to an end back where it began, in the sparkling city of Takamatsu. En route to the port destination, you will race to witness the incredible Naruto Whirlpools. This mesmerizing natural spectacle appears as though it was created for a movie. You may capture this wondrous marine phenomenon up close as you stand on viewpoints from beneath the bridge that crosses the Naruto Strait. Afterward, you will head back to Takamatsu, where you may lap up one last exceptional Japanese dinner before returning to your room.

All good things must come to an end, and as the sunshine illuminates Takamatsu’s glittering skyline, you will feel overwhelmed with appreciation for the bewitching art highlights and wildlife panoramas you will have discovered during your adventurous seven days here. With one final chance to savor the flavors of Japanese cuisine for breakfast, take your time this morning before your private transfer arrives, and you are swept away to the airport. There is still so much to explore across the majestic country, and Japan will be awaiting your return.