A tiny chunk of land in the Setouchi Inland Sea, aka the Mediterranean of Japan, Naoshima has become a living museum of sorts and its shores are scattered with striking art installations. Befitting of such a locale, Benesse House is the brainchild of noted architect, Tadao Ando, who has spent over 20 years crafting this unique hotel. It's actually four buildings in one, including the Park, Oval, Beach and Museum, all of which showcase works that wouldn't be out of place in the Guggenheim. Set right on the shoreline, you may never leave Benesse House, but the team is well-versed in island activities, just in case you do.
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Each featuring an original work of art, the rooms are scattered across all four buildings. Most of the rooms share traits like floor-to-ceiling windows, light wooden furnishings, a muted, elegant colour palette, and spectacular views. Accessed by a monorail, the Oval sits hight on a hilltop, whilst Beach is a few steps away from the shore. In Park and Museum, the rooms boast balconies overlooking art-dotted lawns and views across the sea to the mountains of Shikoku. The largest suites also have a spacious lounge and dining area.
Benesse House is as unique as they come and just being here is an experience in itself.
Any guests with mobility requirements are recommended to stay in one of the Park Suites as they are most suitable and easy to access.
The journey to Naoshima Island can be quite long and includes a four-hour train ride from Tokyo and ferry across the Setouchi Inland Sea.
Benesse House Beach can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Japan trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Japan trips featuring Benesse House Beach or get advice and suggestions from one of our Japan specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Benesse House Beach start from around $650, or US$650, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
One-of-a-kind art and striking scenery blend across this unique island canvas.
