Japan: Art Islands & The Iya Valley

15 May 2027

–

25 May 2027

Available

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Hidden amongst some 3,000 islands scattered across Japan’s breathtaking Seto Inland Sea lies an extraordinary world where art, architecture and nature come together in the most unexpected ways.

Japan’s celebrated Art Islands are unlike anywhere else – a captivating collection of contemporary museums, surreal outdoor installations and architectural masterpieces set against tranquil seas, traditional villages and spectacular island landscapes. From the iconic works of Naoshima to the quiet beauty of Teshima, each island reveals its own personality, blending bold creativity with centuries-old Japanese culture and a wonderfully unhurried way of life.

But this journey takes you even deeper. Discover the fascinating contrasts of Tokyo, wander exquisite Japanese gardens, experience regional cuisine and craftsmanship, and retreat into the remote mountains of the Iya Valley, where vine bridges, forested gorges and soothing onsen offer a glimpse of a Japan far removed from the usual tourist trail.

This is Japan at its most creative, intriguing and immersive – a journey designed to surprise you at every turn.

DIVA MOMENTS

Tokyo: Where Old Japan Meets Bold New Design — Explore nostalgic Yanaka Ginza before discovering some of Tokyo’s most exciting contemporary art, architecture and design spaces.

Naoshima: Japan’s Legendary Art Island — Immerse yourself in an extraordinary landscape where world-class contemporary art, Tadao Ando architecture and the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea become one.

The Art House Project — Step inside traditional homes transformed by artists into remarkable installations, where contemporary creativity intertwines with the history and everyday life of the island.

Yayoi Kusama’s Iconic Pumpkin — Come face-to-face with one of Japan’s most recognisable contemporary artworks, set against Naoshima’s beautiful island landscape.

Teshima Art Museum — Experience an astonishing fusion of art, architecture, water and nature amongst Teshima’s terraced rice fields.

Ritsurin Garden — Wander one of Japan’s magnificent historic gardens, complete with landscaped hills, tranquil ponds, ancient pines, matcha at Kikugetsutei teahouse and a traditional wooden boat ride.

The Hidden Iya Valley — Journey deep into the mountains of Shikoku for vine bridges, dramatic river gorges and one of Japan’s most wonderfully remote landscapes.

An Onsen Retreat in the Mountains — Slip into your yukata and unwind in therapeutic hot spring baths overlooking the lush Iya Valley — a beautiful taste of traditional Japanese hospitality.

Oboke Gorge by Boat — Cruise the clear waters of the Yoshino River through a spectacular ravine sculpted by nature over millions of years.

Japanese Craftsmanship at Takumikumo Village — Discover the artistry, patience and philosophy behind bonsai alongside traditional Kagawa crafts and local artisans.

Teshima: Art, Island Life & Sea Views — Explore an island revitalised through art, with contemporary installations, rolling landscapes and a beautiful lunch showcasing local ingredients.

A Final Night in Shikoku — Raise a glass together before your final dinner, celebrating an unforgettable journey through one of Japan’s most fascinating regions.

…and so much more.

Hidden within the Seto Inland Sea lies a mesmerising collection of islands where art, nature and architecture exist in perfect harmony. Scattered amongst more than 3,000 islands, many untouched and quietly uninhabited, these Art Islands offer something truly rare. A place where creativity feels both expansive and deeply personal.

From intimate islands with only a handful of residents to larger, more vibrant cultural hubs, each destination reveals its own unique rhythm. Here, contemporary art is not confined to galleries but woven gently into the landscape and everyday life, creating a seamless dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation.

This is a journey of contrasts and calm. Contemporary art softened by nature. Bold architectural vision grounded in serenity. A space where you are invited not just to observe, but to feel, reflect and simply be.

Naoshima has been at the heart of this artistic evolution since the 1980s and today stands as a global destination for art and design. The island is home to remarkable works by internationally celebrated artists, while museums designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando emerge quietly from the landscape. From the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum to the Art House Project and Yayoi Kusama’s iconic pumpkin, art here becomes inseparable from the island itself.

On nearby Teshima, the experience becomes even more poetic. The Teshima Art Museum, a collaboration between artist Rei Naito and architect Ryue Nishizawa, is a masterpiece of simplicity and sensation. Set amongst terraced rice fields, its fluid concrete form brings art, architecture and the natural environment together in an extraordinary sensory experience.

Then the landscape shifts again as we journey deep into Shikoku’s remote Iya Valley. Here, forested mountains, dramatic river gorges and centuries-old vine bridges replace contemporary galleries, while traditional onsen and warm Japanese hospitality invite you to slow down completely. Cruise the clear waters of Oboke Gorge, cross the remarkable Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge and soak in therapeutic hot springs surrounded by the mountains.

Along the way, Tokyo adds another fascinating layer, bringing together nostalgic neighbourhoods, contemporary galleries, striking architecture and cutting-edge design, while Takamatsu introduces us to exquisite gardens, bonsai and traditional craftsmanship.

This is where art becomes an experience, where stillness becomes a luxury, and where every moment feels quietly extraordinary.

Created and hosted by our fabulous partner, Mai Journeys, this tour offers a unique combination of modernity and tradition, city life and nature, cutting-edge art and ancient customs. It will stimulate you and then, just as quickly, soothe you.

And that is the fabulous dichotomy of Japan.

Tour Price:

Single: AUD$13,870 per person

Twin Share: AUD$12,300 per person

Tour Starts: Tokyo

Tour Finishes: Takamatsu

Tour Dates: 15 May 2027 – 25 May 2027

PRICE INCLUDES:

Fully escorted from Tokyo by your Mai Journeys Host, Jemma

3 nights’ accommodation at the Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza, Tokyo

5 nights’ accommodation at the JR Hotel Clement, Takamatsu

2 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Kazurabashi, a traditional onsen hotel in the Iya Valley

Breakfast daily

Lunches and dinners as per itinerary

Entrances and excursions as per itinerary

All train, taxi and van transportation included in the trip itinerary

Entrances to galleries and museums in Tokyo as per itinerary

Yanaka Ginza tour in Tokyo

Toshogu-jinja in Tokyo

Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu

Matcha tea at the Kikugetsutei teahouse

Entrances to the galleries and museums on Naoshima and Teshima

Takumikumo Village in Takamatsu

Oboke Gorge boat trip

Iya Kazurabashi Vine Bridge, Shikoku

Hashikura Temple, Shikoku

Public transport tickets in Tokyo

First Class seats from Tokyo to Okayama

First Class seats on the Rapid Marine Liner from Okayama to Takamatsu

Ferry transfers to and from the Art Islands

Private transport on Naoshima and Teshima Islands

Private transport on Shikoku Island

Luggage forwarding from Tokyo to Takamatsu

Local driver in Shikoku

Local guide throughout

NOT INCLUDED:

International airfares; arrival or departure transfers; pre or post-tour accommodation, extensions or touring; travel insurance; items of a personal nature; visa fees (if applicable); laundry unless stated; excess baggage; meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary; beverages unless specifically described; and optional excursions or activities that may be offered.

MAY 2027

Day 1 – Saturday 15: Hello Tokyo…

Arrive in Tokyo, pass through immigration, collect your luggage and clear customs.

If you have booked an arrival transfer through us, our assistant will meet you just outside the secure area and take you to the hotel by private van transfer. Otherwise, make your own way to the hotel, check in and take some time to settle into the rhythm of Japan.

Arrival times are scattered throughout the day and evening, so tonight is deliberately left free. Relax, explore nearby Ginza if you feel like stretching your legs, or simply enjoy an early night and a good rest before our adventure begins.

Stay: Millenium Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza

Day 2 – Sunday 16: Tokyo – Old Soul, Modern City

After breakfast, we set out for a full day discovering the fascinating layers of culture, history and contemporary life that make Tokyo such an extraordinary city.

We begin in Yanaka Ginza, a charming neighbourhood that offers a nostalgic glimpse into old Tokyo. Known as one of the city’s traditional shitamachi, or “lower town” districts, Yanaka feels a world away from Tokyo’s neon-lit modernity. Historic temples, quiet streets and local shops selling traditional goods reveal a gentler, more intimate side of the city.

After lunch in Yanaka, we wander to Toshogu-jinja in Ueno Park. Built in 1616, this beautiful Shinto shrine has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan and remains a remarkable example of Edo-period architecture. More recent additions include contemplative spaces designed to enhance the spiritual atmosphere and create a garden for prayer and reflection.

Later, we return to Ginza and turn our attention firmly towards modern Tokyo. Along Chuo-dori, sometimes described as Tokyo’s answer to Fifth Avenue, some of the world’s leading fashion and design houses compete not only through their collections but through extraordinary architecture.

As we wander, we take in striking examples including Nissan Crossing, Ginza Place, Louis Vuitton Ginza, Hermès, Mikimoto Ginza and Yamaha Ginza – a fascinating contrast to the traditional Tokyo we explored earlier in the day.

After a wonderfully full introduction to the city, we return to our hotel. Your evening is at leisure.

Stay: Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 – Monday 17: Tokyo – Art, Architecture & Design

This morning, our luggage will be forwarded ahead to Takamatsu, allowing us to enjoy another fabulous day exploring Tokyo with ease.

Today is dedicated to contemporary art, architecture and design, bringing together some of the city’s most exciting creative spaces within one compact area.

We begin at the National Art Center, housed within an extraordinary undulating concrete-and-glass building designed by pioneering Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa. One of Japan’s largest contemporary art spaces, the museum has no permanent collection, allowing its galleries to continually evolve with an ever-changing programme of exhibitions spanning contemporary art, traditional techniques and experimental works.

From here, we take a short walk to Tokyo Midtown and visit 21_21 Design Sight, a design-focused institution founded by celebrated Japanese designer Issey Miyake. Designed by legendary architect Tadao Ando, much of the gallery sits quietly underground beside the greenery of Midtown Garden.

A gentle stroll then brings us to the fabulous Mori Art Museum, located high above the city on the 53rd and 54th floors of Mori Tower. With no fixed exhibition, every visit offers something different, showcasing innovative contemporary works from Japan and around the world.

We also visit the Tokyo City View observation deck on the 52nd floor, where soaring windows reveal panoramic views across this extraordinary metropolis. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

After a day filled with creativity and spectacular design, we return to our hotel. Your evening is free.

Stay: Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 – Tuesday 18: Tokyo to Takamatsu – Gardens, Tea & Shikoku

After breakfast, we transfer to the station and board Japan’s iconic Shinkansen for our journey to Okayama.

Here, we change to the Rapid Marine Liner for the wonderfully scenic journey across the Seto-Ohashi Bridge to Takamatsu, on the island of Shikoku. Stretching across the Seto Inland Sea via a series of bridges and islands, the views from the train are simply spectacular.

On arrival, it is just a short walk to our hotel, where we check in and refresh before being collected by our private transport.

This afternoon we visit the magnificent Ritsurin Garden, the largest Cultural Property Garden in Japan and a landscape that has been lovingly maintained for almost 400 years. Six ponds, thirteen landscaped hills and around one thousand carefully tended pine trees sit against the beautiful backdrop of Mt Shiun, creating a scene that changes with every season.

During our visit, we enjoy matcha tea at the elegant Kikugetsutei teahouse, discover traditional tools and crafts at the Sanuki Folk Craft Museum and take to the water aboard one of the traditional wooden boats that glide around the garden’s South Pond.

We then return to our hotel, where we dine in-house this evening before settling in for a good night’s rest ahead of our Art Island adventures.

Stay: JR Clement Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Bento Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Wednesday 19: Naoshima – Art Woven into Island Life

Today, we travel by ferry to Naoshima, an island internationally celebrated for its extraordinary fusion of contemporary art, architecture and serene coastal landscapes.

On arrival at Miyanoura Port, one of the island’s most recognisable sights welcomes us – Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Red Pumpkin.

With our private van waiting, we begin exploring Naoshima and visit one of its most fascinating experiences, the Art House Project. Here, artists have transformed empty houses scattered throughout residential neighbourhoods into extraordinary works of art, weaving together the history and memories of these once-lived-in spaces with contemporary creativity.

As we move between the houses, everyday island life unfolds around us. It is an intimate and wonderfully organic way to experience art – not separated from its surroundings, but embedded within the community itself.

We pause for lunch at a secluded, home-style café housed within a beautifully refurbished traditional farmhouse.

This afternoon, we visit the incredible Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. His tenth architectural work amongst the art facilities of Benesse Art Site Naoshima, the museum is an exciting addition to this remarkable island.

We return to Takamatsu by ferry in the afternoon. After a fabulous day of discovery, your evening is free to relax and unwind.

Stay: JR Clement Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 – Thursday 20: Naoshima – Icons of Art & Architecture

After breakfast, we return to Naoshima for a second day, delving even deeper into the island’s extraordinary artistic world.

We visit the remarkable Chichu Art Museum, designed by Tadao Ando and built largely underground so as not to overwhelm the surrounding natural landscape. Nearby, the Chichu Garden pays homage to Claude Monet’s beloved garden at Giverny.

At Benesse House Museum, contemporary art flows between indoor and outdoor spaces, with works by internationally acclaimed artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama and David Hockney.

We also visit the Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery and The Corridors of Time, an experience that invites us to move through architecture and its natural environment in a wonderfully contemplative way.

Our artistic journey continues at the Lee Ufan Museum, created through a collaboration between internationally acclaimed artist Lee Ufan and architect Tadao Ando. Nestled within a gentle valley surrounded by hills and sea, this tranquil space brings nature, architecture and art together beautifully.

And, of course, we see Yayoi Kusama’s famous giant pumpkin and the SANAA-designed Marine Station at Miyanoura Port.

After another huge but fabulous day, we return to Takamatsu by ferry. Your evening is at leisure.

Stay: JR Clement Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 – Friday 21: Into the Iya Valley – Bonsai, Mountains & Onsen

After a leisurely breakfast and check-out, today we leave the coast behind and journey deep into the mountains of Shikoku towards the spectacular Iya Valley.

Before leaving the Takamatsu region, we stop at Takumikumo Village to explore a forest of exquisite bonsai trees and discover the remarkable philosophy, patience and skill behind these living masterpieces.

Takumikumo brings together craftspeople specialising not only in bonsai – an important traditional culture of Kagawa Prefecture – but also pottery, Kagawa lacquerware, Aji stone and other regional crafts.

We then continue into the remote Iya Valley. Hidden deep within the mountains, this extraordinary region remained far from the beaten path for generations, preserving its narrow river gorges, lush forests, rustic vine bridges and wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.

Our home is Hotel Kazurabashi, a traditional hot spring resort nestled amongst the mountains. Here, the pace slows completely.

Slip into your yukata and embrace the traditional Japanese onsen experience. Soak in therapeutic hot spring waters, enjoy indoor or outdoor public baths, or make your way by cable car to the mountaintop baths for beautiful panoramic views across the valley.

This evening, we dine in-house with a seasonal multi-course meal showcasing a variety of beautifully prepared Japanese dishes.

Stay: Hotel Kazurabashi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Saturday 22: Iya Valley – Gorge Cruising & The Art of Doing Nothing

Today is deliberately slower – a day to experience the beauty surrounding us and then simply relax.

This morning, we take a short transfer to spectacular Oboke Gorge, where we board a sightseeing boat for a gentle 30-minute cruise along the clear waters of the Yoshino River.

Carved by nature over some 200 million years, this dramatic ravine is designated a national scenic spot. From the water, we can admire its towering rock formations, remarkable geology and the beauty of the river winding through the mountains.

We enjoy lunch at a café overlooking the gorge before returning to the wonderfully soothing world of the Iya Valley’s hot springs.

This afternoon is all about slowing down. Soak tired muscles in an open-air bath surrounded by mountain scenery, listen to the sound of the river below and allow yourself the rare luxury of having absolutely nowhere else to be.

We dine in-house again this evening.

Stay: Hotel Kazurabashi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 – Sunday 23: Iya Valley to Takamatsu – Vine Bridges & Mountain Temples

After breakfast, we check out and begin our journey back towards Takamatsu – but there is still plenty to discover along the way.

Once, thirteen kazurabashi, or vine suspension bridges, connected communities throughout the Iya Valley. Today, only two remain.

This morning, we visit the remarkable Iya Kazurabashi, one of the surviving vine bridges and one of the valley’s most distinctive sights. After crossing the bridge, you may wander past the beautiful Biwa no Taki waterfall and make your way down towards the river below.

We then continue to Hashikura Temple, a thousand-year-old mountaintop temple situated along Shikoku’s famous 88 Temple Pilgrimage route. It is a fascinating place where traditions of Shinto and Buddhism sit side by side.

We reach the temple via the Hashikurasan Ropeway, which carries us up the mountainside. From the ropeway station, those wishing to reach the temple grounds will need to climb several hundred additional steps.

Later, we continue to Takamatsu and check back into our hotel.

Stay: JR Clement Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 – Monday 24: Teshima – Art, Nature & A Beautiful Finale

For our final chapter of the Setouchi Art journey, we board the ferry this morning for beautiful Teshima Island.

Once a rural island struggling with depopulation, Teshima has been revitalised through the Setouchi Triennale Art Festival and the creation of remarkable museums and art spaces. Today, its rolling hills, coastal views and abundant greenery provide a breathtaking setting for contemporary creativity.

On arrival, our private van takes us around the island as we visit sites including Yokoo House and Beyond the Border.

We pause for lunch at a restaurant overlooking the ocean, enjoying dishes created with a wonderful variety of ingredients from Teshima Island.

One of today’s great highlights is the extraordinary Teshima Art Museum. Designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa in collaboration with artist Rei Naito, the museum sits amongst terraced rice fields and brings together architecture, art and the natural environment in a way that is beautifully difficult to define until you experience it for yourself.

Its simple concrete form plays with water, light and air, creating an ever-changing and deeply sensory experience.

We return to Takamatsu by ferry, where your afternoon is free to relax, explore or simply enjoy these final hours in Shikoku at your own pace.

This evening, we meet in the bar for a cocktail before dining together for our final meal – the perfect opportunity to raise a glass to an extraordinary journey through Japan.

Stay: JR Clement Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 – Tuesday 25: Time to Say Farewell…

Your final day has arrived, and it is time to say farewell.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before preparing for your onward journey – whether you are transferring to Takamatsu Airport for a domestic flight connection or walking to Takamatsu Station to continue by train to Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan.

Departure transfers to the airport are not included, as guests depart at different times. We will, however, assist with arranging transfers and, where possible, match guests travelling at similar times.

As our journey comes to a close, we reflect on an extraordinary ten nights of art and architecture, island landscapes, ancient traditions, mountain serenity, beautiful food and the wonderfully unexpected contrasts of Japan.

Arigatou Gozaimashita – thank you for sharing this unforgettable journey.

Meals: Breakfast

Tokyo

Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Tokyo:

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Ginza, the Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel offers a stylish and convenient base for exploring Tokyo. Just moments from Ginza and Higashi-Ginza stations, you’ll be surrounded by the neighbourhood’s renowned shopping, dining, architecture and unmistakable city energy. Contemporary interiors and a wonderfully central location make it an ideal place to begin our Japanese adventure.

Takamatsu

JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu

Ideally located beside Takamatsu Station and close to the waterfront and ferry terminals, JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu is perfectly positioned for our explorations of Shikoku and the Setouchi Art Islands. Comfortable and contemporary, with beautiful views across the city and Seto Inland Sea, it provides a welcoming base to return to after our days discovering Naoshima and Teshima.

Iya Valley

Hotel Kazurabashi

Nestled deep within the mountains of the spectacular Iya Valley, Hotel Kazurabashi offers an authentic Japanese ryokan and onsen experience surrounded by lush forest and dramatic mountain scenery. Slip into your yukata, slow the pace and soak in the therapeutic hot spring waters, including beautiful open-air baths reached by cable car high above the valley. With traditional Japanese hospitality, seasonal multi-course dining and an extraordinary natural setting, this is a wonderfully peaceful retreat in one of Japan’s most remote regions.

This tour has been created by and will be operated by Mai Journeys. Travelling Divas is acting as a sales agent only. You will also be required to complete a Mai Journeys booking agreement and accept their terms and conditions.

The tour requires a minimum of 6 guests and has a maximum of 8 guests.

A non-refundable deposit of AUD$2,500 is required at the time of booking to secure your place. A second payment of AUD$2,500 is due once the tour departure is confirmed. Interim payments may also be required to meet supplier terms and conditions.

The remaining balance is due no later than 15 March 2027. If payment is not received by this date, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and the cancellation terms below will apply.

Payment is made via the payment link in the booking form. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express, and a merchant fee applies.

The tour price has been converted from Japanese yen to Australian dollars and may change due to currency fluctuations. Once full payment has been received, the price is guaranteed.

Please do not book flights until the tour departure has been confirmed. Travel insurance is mandatory.

You may cancel your booking by providing written notice. The following terms will apply:

-If you cancel before the tour departure is confirmed, you will forfeit your AUD$2,500 deposit.

-If you cancel after the tour departure is confirmed but on or before 15 March 2027, you will forfeit your AUD$2,500 deposit, a $500 cancellation fee and any unrecoverable payments made to third parties in connection with your travel arrangements. These may include international or domestic flights, accommodation, excursions, tour operators and ground suppliers.

-If you cancel after 15 March 2027, no monies paid, including your deposit and final payment, will be refunded under any circumstances.

Deposits will only be refunded if Mai Journeys cancels the tour departure.

This tour has a strong culinary focus, with regional cuisine and seafood featuring prominently. It may offer limited value for guests with a broad range of food intolerances or dislikes.

We will always do our best to accommodate special dietary requirements; however, not all requirements can be accommodated. Vegetarian diets can be catered for with advance notice.

You must provide accurate and detailed information about any Special Dietary Requirements (SDRs) at the time of booking, as we cannot accommodate SDRs at short notice. Dietary requirements and dietary preferences are different, and all SDR information will be passed on to our suppliers.

The tour includes days with considerable walking, extended periods on foot, varied terrain, steps and uneven surfaces. Guests should be comfortable with regular walking, ferry and train travel, and getting into and out of private vehicles.

In the Iya Valley, guests visiting Hashikura Temple will travel by ropeway to the base of the temple before climbing several hundred steps to reach the temple grounds.

Final payment due 15 March 2027.