Keisuke Yamaguchi "Walking Ark" Photo: Kimito Takahashi
From luxury cruises to intimate group tours, the Setouchi Triennale offers art lovers a variety of accessible ways to experience Japan’s vibrant art festival in style and comfort.
Everyone who's anyone knows about the Setouchi Triennale, the unconventional and fascinating event that draws art lovers to the Seto Inland Sea every three years. Running throughout the seasons with distinct spring, summer, and autumn editions, this year's summer segment takes place from August 1st to 31st. But did you know there are now more up-close and personal ways to experience this world-renowned contemporary art event—allowing you to take in the beauty of the islands like never before? Choose how you will enjoy the festival this year!
Where is the Setouchi Triennale held?
The Setouchi Triennale is held across several islands in Setouchi, a coastal region by Japan’s Seto Inland Sea and stretches across parts of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Known for its calm waters, island landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, the region spans the coastal areas of Hiroshima, Okayama, Yamaguchi, Kagawa, Tokushima and Ehime prefectures.
Sail Through Beauty on a Private Art Cruise
The calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea are perfect for cruising—and what better way to do it than on a private yacht tour, complete with guided access to the Setouchi Triennale?
How about this for luxury: a cruise through the crystal-clear waters and scenic islands of Setouchi, complete with gourmet dining and exclusive, guided access to the highlights of the Triennale 2025?
If you are lucky enough to visit the Setouchi region during the Triennale, various tour companies such as Private Tours Japan offer elegant cruises throughout the festival, featuring island-hopping adventures and deep engagement with the region’s celebrated art scene. Participants can explore an imposing constellation of museums, sculptures, and interactive installations, guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking resident art curator, then unwind with a view of the sunset at sea and an overnight stay in an accommodation that blends art, luxury, and comfort.
A cruise-ship package is another way to access all the highlights of the Triennale. View the incredible sculptures from the sea.
Large cruise ships, including the Nippon Maru, also offer exclusive packages during the Triennale, that combine sightseeing, gourmet dining, art, and leisure activities into one unforgettable journey – ideal for international travelers. Why not make the most of this rare triennial event and indulge in an all-out art adventure on the open sea?
Maximize Your Triennale Experience with a Personalized Guide
Having a guide on hand to offer artistic insight can make all the difference.
Those who prefer to explore the islands without joining a group can still get personalized treatment—many of the region's premium hotels offer individual guided tours of the festival. These experiences are especially valuable for those seeking insight from resident art experts and a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
At Shitada-go, a unique, year-round camping ground, you'll find the perfect camping destination no matter the weather. Surrounded by lush foliage, striking rock formations, and the clear Igarashi River, guests can enjoy camping or glamping whilst soaking up the natural beauty of the region.
Shiko Miyake "The Time of the Beginning" Photo: Keizo Kioku
Stay at a luxury island hotel to enjoy the installations from dawn to dusk
Go It Alone (Just Be Sure to Check the Website in Advance)
(Left) Noe Aoki “Soranotama / Kankakei” / (Right) Yoh Yasuda “Communities connected by the wind”
Setouchi is renowned for its iconic contemporary art, which are accessible to visitors of all budgets.
Of course, the Setouchi Triennale has wide appeal in part because it caters to travelers of all budgets. If you decide to forgo a tour and venture forth on your own, you can still find your way around the festival and island-hop, relying on public ferries and informational pamphlets. That said, if you plan to go solo, it's a good idea to check the official website in advance—not only for the latest crowd updates at popular spots, but also for the exhibition schedule, as not all installations are open every day. For example, some islands like the ever-popular Naoshima Island have closures on certain days, such as Mondays. The website also offers details on official public tours available in English, which can be a helpful option for first-time visitors.
For more information (current as of July 2025), check out the links below.
Setouchi Triennale 2025:
https://setouchi-artfest.jp/en/
Spring Season: April 18 – May 25
Summer Season: August 1 – August 31
Autumn Season: October 3 – November 9
Private Tours Japan Setouchi Triennale 2025 Art Tour:
https://privatetours.jp/japan-luxury-tours/setouchi-triennale-2025/
Nippon Maru 6-day Setouchi Triennale Cruise:
https://www.cruiseplanet.co.jp/tour?id=19049
(Japanese Only)
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About the author
Author: Jessica Ujiie
Profile: Living by the sea in Kamakura with two cats and one dog, Jessica Ujiie works as a translator and writer. Her passion for language is matched by a love of salsa dancing and exploring Japan’s lesser-known corners - always on the lookout for a new story to tell.
