Naoshima Art Project Revitalizes Japanese Island Attracting Over 1.5 Million Annual Visitors

Several regions in Japan have experienced cultural and economic revitalization through the integration of art and preservation of traditional landscapes. Naoshima Island, once heavily polluted and economically depressed, has transformed into a major tourist destination due to the Benesse Art Site and the Setouchi Triennale contemporary art festival, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually with its museums and site-specific art installations (Article 1). Similarly, the coastal village of Ine in Kyoto Prefecture maintains its historical charm with traditional boathouses called funaya, which have been preserved and repurposed, making it a growing destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences (Article 4). Tokushima Prefecture offers a natural and cultural escape on Shikoku Island, featuring scenic sites such as the Naruto whirlpools, Iya Valley’s vine bridges, and opportunities for whitewater rafting, highlighting Japan’s diverse regional attractions beyond major cities (Article 2). Together, these articles illustrate how Japan’s rural and coastal areas leverage natural beauty, historical architecture, and contemporary art initiatives to attract tourism and sustain local communities.