SHIKOKU, JAPAN
The Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea + Crafts of Shikoku + Indigo Discovery
NOVEMBER 15 - 23, 2024
Shikoku, Japan’s smallest major island, is located about 150 miles southwest of Kyoto and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual pilgrimage, and cultural treasures. Our Ace Camp takes us to three distinct regions of Shikoku where we explore modern and traditional arts and crafts.
We will visit Takamatsu, a captivating city known for its rich heritage, impeccable gardens, and unique culinary scene. Learn to make traditional sugar sweets, also known as Wasabon, a specialty of this region. Discover Ritsurin Gardens ~ one of the country's most exquisite gardens. The garden's cultural and historical significance lies in its preservation of Edo-period garden design and its representation of traditional Japanese aesthetics and landscaping techniques.
From here we will visit the Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea, including Naoshima, Teshima and the lesser know Inujima. These islands showcase incredible contemporary art and design museums, galleries and installations. Visiting the Art Islands is not just about the artworks themselves but also about the integration of art into the fabric of the islands. The vivid contrast between the bucolic island scenery and the contemporary art is note-worthy.
Our final destination is Tokushima, the city renowned for its rich tradition of Awa Indigo dyeing. Aizome (the practice of traditional indigo dyeing) in Tokushima dates back over 800 years, and the prefecture’s location is key to the development of the practice. The Yoshino River that runs through northern Tokushima irrigates the surrounding land, providing an ideal environment for the cultivation of the Japanese indigo plant (Perisicaria tinctoria). We will visit and learn with traditional makers and world leading contemporary dyers.
Trip Itinerary, Details + Important Trip Notes below.
DATES
NOVEMBER 15 - 23, 2024 ∙ 9 Days, 8 Nights
Twin Shared Room $5695 USD
Private Room $6495 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Guided experiences by Rika Nishimura
Visit the Art Islands of Naoshima, Teshima + Inujima
Indigo studio visits + workshops with world-leading contemporary and traditional artisans
Specially curated meals
Visit Ritsurin Gardens + Isamu Noguchi Garden + other local cultural artisans sites and shops
Our Shikoku Host: Rika Nishimura
Rika was born and raised in Kochi, Shikoku, Japan and has deep connections to this island. She spent her 20's in Kyoto before moving to Australia, and returns to Shikoku every year where she leads bespoke cultural and art focused tours. Her dedication to authenticity transforms each tour into an incredibly deep exploration of the Japanese culture, tradition, landscape, and people. Rika’s passion for sharing her beloved home region shines through in every step she takes. Rika, a former professional interpreter, also holds a bachelor's degree in International Law from Ritsumeikan University.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Takamatsu! Famous for its speacialty udon, bonsai and carved stone wares, Takamatsu is also the gateway to the Art Islands of the Seto inland Sea.
Make your way to our hotel in central Takamatsu. Settle into your room, we’ll meet early evening for a welcome dinner with Rika.
Day 2
Our morning begins with a visit to the Ritsurin Gardens, a true masterpiece of landscape design and one of the country's most exquisite traditional gardens. Dating back to the 17th century, these stunning gardens are a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision that went into their creation.
This afternoon we visit the acclaimed Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum. Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988) was one of the most important sculptors of his time. He was a protean artist who, in addition to his sculpture, designed and created conceptual projects, landscaped environments, earthworks, gardens, plazas, stage sets, furniture and lighting fixtures.
We conclude our day with a Wasanbon Workshop learning how a local style of sweets are made. These traditional Japanese confections are made with a special kind of sugar cultivated only in Kagawa (Takamatsu) and Tokushima Prefectures.
The rest of the evening is free for you to relax and explore on your own or with others from the group.
Day 3
Today we make our way by ferry to Naoshima Island, which has gained international acclaim for its remarkable fusion of contemporary art, stunning architecture, and serene coastal landscapes. Particular notable destinations include Chichu Art Museum, a masterpiece designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando and Benesse House Museum that features contemporary artworks displayed in various indoor and outdoor spaces. Here you can admire works by acclaimed artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama, and David Hockney. We return to Takamatsu in the evening for a group dinner.
Day 4
An early morning start as we make our way by ferry to Teshima Art Island. One of the highlights of Teshima is the Teshima Art Museum, a remarkable architectural and artistic creation nestled within a hillside. Designed by Ryue Nishizawa and Rei Naito, the museum combines the natural environment with innovative design. The island offers stunning coastal views, rolling hills, and vibrant flora.
Later today, we venture to Inujima, a smaller island that offers a unique and thought-provoking experience for all who visit. Despite its modest size, this island is overflowing with a fascinating blend of industrial history, environmental consciousness, and contemporary art installations.
Upon return to Takamatsu, the rest of the evening is free for you to relax and explore on your own.
Day 6
Today we pack our bags and begin our journey towards Tokushima. Before we leave Takamatsu we will visit a local artisan, a seventh generation Sanuki-norizome dyer. This is a traditional technique of Kagawa prefecture, here the artisan dyers incorporate new techniques while preserving the traditional resist dying techniques to make noren, flags, shrine curtains, happi, lion dance yutan, and more.
On our way to Tokushima we’ll admire the autumn foliage as cross through valleys, forests and hillsides before arriving at the town of Mima situated along the Yoshino River. Go back to the Edo Period when Indigo first emerged here, considered as the birthplace of “Japan Blue” where it has prospered in varying degrees ever since. Today, the town's historic center stands as a testament to its past glory, with a captivating row of graceful merchant houses adorning the main street.
This afternoon we visit with a revered indigo farmer who will introduce us to indigo farming, fermentation and production from this region.
Dinner this evening with group in Tokushima.
Day 5
Our learning today will bring us to the workshop of an eigth-generation washi paper making family where you will learn through a hands on workshop all about washi paper and dyeing washi with indigo. The paper is made from locally sourced natural fibers, such as kozo (mulberry), mitsumata, and gampi. These fibers are meticulously pulped, mixed with water, and hand-spread onto screens to create each sheet of paper. The result is a wide range of beautiful, textured papers, each with its own unique characteristics and applications.
The rest of the evening is free for you to relax and explore on your own.
Day 7
Today we will visit and learn hands-on with two different Indigo houses that showcase very traditional and very contemporary approaches.
Our morning takes us to the working studio of a 6th generation of dyer, using only natural materials and original method from the Edo period. He is recognized as the Contemporary Master of Craftsman by the Ministry of Labour.
This afternoon we visit the workshop of some of the most contemporary indigo artisans in the world. This team represents a new generation of indigo dyers and artists who are exploring new and innovative ways of approaching this art form.
The rest of the evening is free for you to relax and explore on your own.
Day 8
This morning we learn about a traditional art form that was developed as a result of the prosperity that Indigo brought to this region. The history of Awa Ningyo Joruri, also known as Awa Puppet Theater, dates back over three centuries, it is recognized as one of Japan's most important cultural assets and a significant part of the country's performing arts heritage.
After lunch we will visit and learn about Otani pottery which refers to the traditional ceramic ware produced in the Otani kilns, located in the town of Otani. With a history spanning over 200 years, Otani pottery is known for its solid craftsmanship, unique glazes, and distinctive aesthetic.
This evening we have a farewell dinner together.
Day 9
Departure Day
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning we pack our bags and say our goodbyes. Thank you for joining us on this incredible and often unexpected journey around Shikoku and the Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
さようなら !
Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, artisans studio schedules and new opportunities.
Where We’re Staying
Takamatsu + Tokushima
Our comfortable western style hotels are centrally located in each city close to shops, restaurants and transport.
ROOMING NOTES + OPTIONS
Group Size: Maximum 12 guests / Minimum 10 guests. All Prices are in USD.
OPTION 1 - SHARED ROOM PRICE
The fee for this trip is $5695 per person
Room Notes: Shared rooms have two twin beds. You will share a room with one other guest for the duration of the trip. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 2 - STANDARD PRIVATE ROOM PRICE
The fee for this trip is $6495 per person
Room Notes: You will have a private room for the duration of the trip. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Important Trip Notes + Details
CULINARY NOTES + RESTRICTIONS
Unfortunately we are unable to handle specific dietary requirements, allergies or intolerances on this trip.
While we won’t be challenging you with the strangest aspects of the food culture, even day-to-day eating in Japan can taste quite different to someone unfamiliar with the cuisine.
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
This trip is for the calm, open minded traveler who is eager learn about indigo and local arts. You should be interested in learning with the local community of artisans, fascinated by ancient rituals and curious about regional culture and cuisine.
THIS ACE CAMP INCLUDES
Eight nights accommodations in Takamatsu + Tokushima - 4 nights in Takamatsu hotel, 4 nights in Tokushima hotel, exclusive cultural tours and workshops, visits to Naoshima, Teshima and Inujima Island, transport during included tours (private and public transport is used on this tour), eight breakfasts, seven lunches and four dinners.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
International roundtrip airfare; Personal Travel Insurance: We require all participants to have personal travel insurance that at minimum covers medical emergencies and cancellations; Any Drinks beyond what is included with meals - one non-alcoholic beverage included with included meals; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, expenses during free time; laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary.
ACCESSIBILITY
Please note this Ace Camp includes walking tours, you may be on your feet for several of hours at a time and should be comfortable walking 4-8kms a day. You may be sitting on the ground during certain meals and workshops. You will have to remove your shoes at various locations. Please ensure you are comfortable with these conditions.
WHERE DOES THIS TRIP START + FINISH?
This trip starts in Takamatsu, Japan and ends in Tokushima, Japan.
There are several ways to arrive and depart around Shikoku. Via plane, train, ferry or bus from other areas in Japan such as Tokyo, Kyoto, or Okayama, we’ll provide guests with more specific travel suggestions once the trip is guaranteed.
HEALTH + SAFETY DISCLAIMER - including COVID
Please read our Health and Safety procedures in our FAQ’s.
While we strive to deliver all aspects of the included itinerary and specific accommodation, due to challenges some vendors may be facing, certain aspects of your Ace Camps Travel trip may be changed according to the situation beyond our control. In the small chance this does occur, we will work to offer comparable accommodations and/or activities when possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Individuals will be responsible for ensuring they are able to travel to the destination selected. Countries have various Covid-19 related entry requirements including but not limited to: providing proof you are fully vaccinated, taking a test before entry and after entry etc. You should be prepared to meet all necessary entry requirements. This may also include wearing masks in all public settings.
Ace Camps Travel, LLC. will not be responsible for refunding any lost trip funds if you have to miss your scheduled trip as you cannot meet the requirements determined by Ace Camps Travel, LLC. and the country you are visiting.
WEATHER
November is a wonderful time of year to visit Shikoku. Days are mostly temperate with a real sense of autumn chill mornings and evenings. Temperatures range from 48°F to 70°F, which means you should pack layered clothes for your stay and a light jacket + umbrella to prepare for the odd shower.
ACE CAMPS TOUR MANAGER
An Ace Camps Tour Manager is a part of your group and is there to look out for your safety, to help resolve issues, and to make sure you get what you want from your trip. Your Tour Manager is not a local guide but will work with all local partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Ace Camps will email you when it is time to make your travel arrangements. This email will be sent 90 days or more before your trip departs unless you book within 90 prior to the camp.
We will also be sending you an Ace Camps Travel preparation document prior to your trip. It will include a detailed itinerary, arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information and more.
BOOKING TERMS + CANCELLATION POLICY
All Ace Camps Inc. invoices are due to be paid within 48 hours of being sent.
You may cancel on or before July 17, 2024 and receive a full refund minus a $1000 USD per person cancellation fee. If you cancel on or after July 18, 2024 there is a 100% cancellation fee and no refunds will be provided.
Please ensure you read through our full Booking Terms + Cancellation Policy.
QUESTIONS + FAQ’S
If you have any further questions about this Ace Camp please feel free to contact us.
You can also read more FAQ’s here.