Inujima

Attraction
Prefecture
Okayama
Type
Attraction
N/A
0 reviews
¥2,100
Entry Fee

About This Destination

A tiny island in the Seto Inland Sea where a former copper refinery has been transformed into a striking art museum. Part of the Setouchi art island network alongside Naoshima and Teshima, but far less crowded and uniquely industrial.
A former copper refinery on this tiny Seto Inland Sea island has been transformed into a striking art museum where industrial ruins merge with contemporary installations addressing Japan's modernization and its environmental costs. The Inujima Seirensho Art Museum preserves the refinery's brick chimney and karakami walls while showcasing works addressing energy, nature, and art's role in healing damaged landscapes. Beyond the museum, the Art House Project places contemporary artworks throughout traditional island homes, creating an open-air gallery across this once-declining community.

Location

Prefecture: Okayama

Address: Okayama, Japan

Nearest Station: Saidaiji Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Access

Okayama, Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Inujima from Okayama?

From JR Okayama Station, take a Ryobi bus to Hoden Port (Hoden-bashi stop) — about 50 minutes (¥850), then board the small Inujima ferry (10 minutes, ¥400 one-way). The ferry runs roughly 4–5 times daily; check the schedule at hodencruise.com. Total from Okayama: about 1.5 hours. Last ferry from Inujima usually leaves around 16:30; missing it means an overnight on the island (limited accommodation).

What's the entry fee and what should I see?

¥2,100 for adults covers both the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum (former copper refinery, the main attraction) and the five Art House Project installations scattered across the village. Open 9:00–16:30 (March–November); closed Tuesdays year-round and December–February. Plan 3 hours minimum: 90 minutes for the Seirensho with its Yukinori Yanagi installation through chimneys, 60 minutes wandering between the Art Houses. Bring water and a hat — the island has no convenience store.

Is Inujima less crowded than Naoshima?

Significantly less crowded — Inujima receives a fraction of Naoshima's visitors and the small ferry naturally limits numbers. The trade-off is fewer dining options (just one cafe, the Inujima Ticket Center cafe) and shorter open hours. The island is 0.5 km² with about 30 residents, so the experience is intimate. If you're seeking quiet contemplation with art, Inujima beats Naoshima; for variety and amenities, choose Naoshima.

Can I combine Inujima with Naoshima or Teshima in one trip?

Yes, but plan for at least 2–3 days. Inter-island ferries connect Inujima → Teshima → Naoshima only on certain days (typically March–November) — check the Setouchi Triennale or art islands ferry schedule at benesse-artsite.jp. The most efficient route: stay in Naoshima or Takamatsu 1 night, day-trip to Teshima, then take the seasonal ferry to Inujima before returning to Okayama. Outside the operating season you must return to mainland between islands.

🎯 Other Attraction in Okayama

Washuzan Hill

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