#HiddenJapan

Art TravelBlog

Feel Like a Princess at the Yumiko Igarashi Museum in Kurashiki

Feel Like a Princess at the Yumiko Igarashi Museum in Kurashiki Planning a trip to Kurashiki’s charming historical district? If you’re into Japanese manga, nostalgic aesthetics, or just love unique travel experiences, the Yumiko Igarashi Museum is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss. Famous for her manga Candy Candy, Yumiko Igarashi’s world comes alive in this whimsical art museum where visitors can literally step into a storybook—complete with princess dresses, photo spots, and pink-colored curry! What is the Yumiko Igarashi Museum? This museum is dedicated to the beloved works of manga artist Yumiko Igarashi. Located in the heart ...

Art

Discovering the Art House Project in Naoshima: Where Everyday Life Meets Contemporary Art

Tucked away in the quiet village of Honmura on Naoshima Island, the Art House Project is a unique, immersive art experience that turns abandoned traditional homes into living pieces of contemporary art. It’s where the island’s historic architecture, local culture, and cutting-edge creativity beautifully collide. If you’re planning a trip to Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, this is a must-visit for any art lover or curious traveler. 🏡 What Is the Art House Project? Launched in 1998 by Benesse Art Site Naoshima, the Art House Project began with the renovation of one old house, Kadoya. Since then, six more sites have ...

Art ONSEN TravelBlog

Naoshima’s I♥︎Yu: The World’s Most Artistic Public Bath You Can Actually Soak In

🌈 What is I♥︎湯? I♥︎湯 (I Love Yu) is a fully functional public bathhouse (sento) combined with an immersive art installation. It was designed by renowned Japanese artist Shinro Ohtake and opened in 2009 as part of the Benesse Art Site on Naoshima Island. It’s located just a 1–2 minute walk from Miyanoura Port, the main gateway for ferries from Takamatsu and Uno. 🎨 An Artistic Bathing Experience The building’s exterior is a wild, eclectic mix of mosaic tiles, neon signs, tropical plants, and even parts of a ship—giving it a colorful, scrapbook-like appearance. Inside, every surface becomes a canvas: ...

ONSEN TravelBlog

Escape to one of Japan’s Top 3 Hidden Valleys – Iya Valley

Escape to one of Japan’s Top 3 Hidden Valleys – Iya Valley (祖谷渓) Deep in the mountains of Tokushima lies a hot spring retreat like no other. Iya Onsen Hotel is a secluded ryokan perched on a cliffside, offering breathtaking views and a private cable car ride down to a riverside open-air bath. 🛶 Nestled in the heart of nature, Iya Valley is famous for its vine bridges, steep gorges, and untouched serenity – a perfect off-the-beaten-path getaway. ♨️ The onsen water here is silky-smooth alkaline sulfur spring water, known as “beauty bath” for its skin-softening effect. Relax in the ...

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