Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Inujima is a small inhabited island belonging to Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, and is known for its unique atmosphere, which combines the tranquil scenery of the Seto Inland Sea with industrial relics and contemporary art. A copper refinery (Inujima Smelter) once supported the island's industry, but the refinery was abandoned and left as a ruin. Utilizing the remains, the island has been renovated into the Inujima Smelter Museum and other facilities, and is also the setting for the Setouchi Triennale, which is linked to Benesse Art Site Naoshima and other events.
The distinctive feature of Inujima is that it allows visitors to experience the fusion of art, history, and nature through the landscape of dilapidated factory buildings, the sea, and rock faces, as well as the contemporary art pieces that are displayed there. The island itself is small, so it can be explored on foot, making it an easy place to visit.
Highlights
- Inujima Seirensho Art Museum: A museum that preserves and reconstructs the ruins of a refinery. The building and ruins themselves serve as exhibition spaces, and the design is distinctive in that it incorporates light, wind, and the sounds of the sea (please check admission fees and opening hours in advance).
- Industrial remains (remains of a refinery): Remaining brick and stone structures, chimney remains, etc. The decayed beauty of this spot makes it a great place to take photos. There are some areas that are off-limits, so please follow the signs when visiting.
- Island walking paths and sea views: Enjoy the calm Setouchi sea and seasonal scenery on a stroll around small villages, fishing ports, and rocky shores. The evening views are also recommended.
- Contemporary art works: Enjoy walking around the island looking for artworks. During the Setouchi Triennale, new works are sometimes on display.
- Small cafe and rest area: There may be some establishments around the port and museums that offer snacks and drinks, but they are limited in number.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Common routes:
- Nearest station: Uno Station (JR Uno Line). Uno Port is within walking distance from Uno Station.
- Boat (ferry/high-speed boat): Regular boats depart from Uno Port (Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture) to Inujima. The journey time varies depending on the boat, but it generally takes around 20 minutes. The number of boats is small, and it changes depending on the season and day of the week, so it is essential to check the timetable in advance.
- Traveling around the island is by foot. The roads are uphill and downhill, and there are narrow alleys, so comfortable walking shoes are necessary. Bicycles and cars are almost not permitted.
Note: Travel from Okayama Station to Uno by JR (travel time varies depending on the train). Ferries to the island may be canceled due to weather or sea conditions, so please check the operating information before setting off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Museum visit + island stroll: 2-3 hours (plus 30 minutes to 1 hour if you want to take your time looking around the museum)
- Island hopping (combined with Naoshima, Teshima, etc.): 1 day to 1 night (if visiting multiple islands, you will need to plan accordingly based on ferry times)
- Tips for staying here: Because the number of boats is limited, it is important to plan your trip with ample time to allow for travel times to and from the island.
Nearby spots
- Uno Port and Uno Station Area (Tamano City): Stroll around the port area and enjoy the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.
- Naoshima (Kagawa Prefecture): A representative site of Setouchi art, including the Benesse Museum and Chichu Art Museum.
- Teshima (Kagawa Prefecture): The island where the Teshima Art Museum and Setouchi Triennale exhibitions are held.
- Ushimado (Setouchi City): Known as the "Mediterranean Sea of the Setouchi," it offers scenery, cafes, and accommodations.
- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (Kurashiki City): Historical Streets and Ohara Museum of Art (travel by car or train)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- There are few ships: Please be sure to check the round-trip ferry timetable before departing as the number of ferry services and operating hours are limited. The ferry may be fully booked during the art festival period and on weekends.
- Facility opening hours and admission fees: Some facilities, such as the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum, require admission fees, and opening hours and closing days may apply, so please check in advance. Group reservations and viewing slots may also be available.
- What to bring and what to prepare：There are few stores or vending machines on the island, so please bring drinks, a hat, sunscreen, rain gear, etc. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Manners: Artworks and remains are important cultural assets. Please observe basic etiquette, such as not entering restricted areas, not touching artworks, and taking your trash home with you.
- Nature and Climate: The Setouchi region is hot in summer and the direct sunlight is strong. Be careful in winter and in bad weather as the wind is strong and boats are likely to be canceled. The rocky shoreline is slippery so walk carefully.
- Filming and drones: Generally, photography is permitted, but flash photography may be prohibited inside exhibition rooms or near artworks. Please check in advance as there may be restrictions or notification requirements for drones.
Inujima may be small, but it's packed with things to see. It's a good idea to check boat schedules and museum information in advance and wear comfortable clothing. Enjoy the unique scenery woven together by the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea, historical remains, and art.
