Art + Craft Tour | Shikoku, Japan
The Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Crafts of Shikoku + Indigo Discovery
Shikoku, Japan | November 13 - 21, 2026
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 journey together takes us to three distinct regions of Shikoku where we explore contemporary and traditional arts and crafts.
We begin in Takamatsu, a captivating city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, refined gardens, and distinctive culinary scene. Here, we’ll stroll through Ritsurin Garden—widely regarded as one of Japan’s most exquisite landscape gardens—renowned for its masterful preservation of Edo-period design and its embodiment of traditional Japanese aesthetics. We’ll also enjoy a guided visit to The Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum, which once served as the artist’s home and studio. It was here that he created the monumental granite and basalt sculptures that defined the later years of his career. You’ll have the rare opportunity to view over 150 works, many left unfinished, offering an intimate glimpse into the creative process and the enduring atmosphere of his working studio.
From here, we’ll journey to the Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea, including Naoshima, Teshima, and the lesser-known Inujima. These islands are home to remarkable contemporary art, featuring thoughtfully designed museums, galleries, and site-specific installations. The experience goes beyond viewing artworks—it’s about how art is seamlessly woven into the everyday landscape and life of the islands. We’ll also spend a day and night on Shodoshima, the largest island in the Seto Inland Sea. Renowned for its centuries-old soy sauce brewing tradition—dating back more than 400 years—Shodoshima is also celebrated for its delicate somen noodles, olive oil, and fresh seafood.
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 and contemporary indigo and plant based dyers.
This Ace Camps Travel trip is open to all skill levels. Trip Itinerary, Details and Important Notes below.
DATES
November 13 - 21, 2026
9 Days + 8 Nights
PRICING
Shared Room - $6,795 USD
Private Room - $7,795 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
BOOKING FOR THIS TRIP STARTS ON
APRIL 15 AT 1:00PM PST
ART + CRAFT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Visit the Art Islands of Naoshima, Teshima + Inujima, with select entry to curated museums and installations
Visit the culinary rich island of Shodoshima and discover Soy Sauce making, Sake + Somen Noodles
Visit Ritsurin Japanese Garden
Guided tour of Isamu Noguchi’s Sculpture Garden
Hands-on Shibori + indigo dyeing workshops
Learn about Awa Jurobe Yashiki, puppet art traditions developed out of the prosperity of Indigo
Plant based dyeing workshop with madder and persimmon
Transportation during included meals and activities
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
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
Nota Bene: This is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on weather, partner schedules, unexpected opportunities and the needs of the group.
Please be aware that wind and inclement weather can impact boat and ferry services to and from the islands which is outside of our control.
Day 1
Friday, November 13
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, then we’ll meet early evening for a welcome dinner with Rika.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Saturday, November 14
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.
The rest of the evening is free for you to relax and explore on your own or with others from the group.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
Sunday, November 15
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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
Monday, November 16
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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Tuesday, November 17
Today we pack our bags and begin our journey towards Shodoshima Island. 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.
We’ll take the ferry to Shodoshima and enjoy a lunch featuring local delicacies. Depending on the harvest season we will meet with some local farmers and learn about the agriculture of the island or tour somen noodle factory and learn how they are made.
We’ll further explore the culinary aspects of the island through a guided tour of one of the last remaining and most respected barrel-aged soy sauce breweries in Japan. Their soy sauce is fermented in massive traditional wooden barrels known as kioke. Some are more than a century old, and each contains its own complex microbial ecosystem that has been built up over decades.
Dinner this evening with the group in Shodoshima.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Wednesday, November 18
We begin our morning with a visit to Kankakei National Park, regarded as one of the most beautiful gorges in Japan, particularly in the autumn as the leaves are changing color.
We’ll discover a unique sake brewery. Housed in a former soy sauce warehouse, the brewery is both physically and symbolically grounded in the island’s rich fermentation heritage. In addition to using locally grown rice and pure island water, the brewery is known for experimenting with olive yeast—a subtle nod to the island’s agricultural identity as Japan’s olive capital.
Shodoshima also hosts a small collection of art installations we will explore along the way. Making our way back to the ferry, we’ll travel along the coastline before reaching our final destination, the city of Tokushima.
Dinner this evening with the group in Tokushima.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Thursday, November 19
Today we will visit and learn through hands-on workshops with two very different indigo houses—one that showcases very traditional approaches and one that showcases 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 Labor.
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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
Friday, November 20
We’ll admire the autumn foliage as we cross through valleys and hillsides before arriving in a small town for a full day plant dyeing workshop. This immersive workshop introduces a range of plant-based dyeing techniques, with a particular focus on Kakishibu (persimmon tannin resist dyeing) and/or madder plant dyeing on fabric.
Used in Japan for generations, Kakishibu produces a spectrum of rich amber to deep brown tones derived from fermented persimmons. The fermentation process takes approximately three years, resulting in a distinctive dye that, unlike most natural pigments, deepens in color and becomes more vibrant with exposure to sunlight.
Beyond its visual appeal, Kakishibu is also prized for its functional qualities. Its high tannin content offers natural antibacterial, insect-repellent, and water-resistant properties. Historically, it was used to dye farmers’ workwear, fishing nets, and sake bags—strengthening the fibers and extending their lifespan. It was also applied to washi paper and umbrellas, enhancing their durability and protective qualities.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Departure Day - Saturday, November 21
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 !
Meals included: Breakfast
Where We’re Staying
Takamatsu (4 nights), Shodoshima Island (1 night), Tokushima (3 nights)
Our comfortable western style hotels are centrally located in each city close to shops, restaurants and transport.
Rooming Options
Please read below carefully and make your rooming selection on the Booking Request form.
The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Group Size: Minimum 10 guests, Maximum 12 guests.
All prices are in USD.
*Shared Rooms are only available for two guests travelling together. Shared rooms in Tokushima are set up with Hollywood Twin Beds - there is no space between beds.
BOOKING FOR THIS TRIP STARTS ON WEDNESDAY APRIL 15 AT 1:00PM PST
OPTION 1 - SHARED ROOM*
with ensuite bathroom
$6,795 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Rooming Details:
Shared Rooms are available for two guests travelling together. Shared rooms in Tokushima are set up with Hollywood Twin Beds - there is no space between beds.
Room Notes: Shared rooms have two twin beds. You will share a room with one other guest for the duration of the trip. Rooms in Japan are significantly smaller than North American standard rooms. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Initial Payment due immediately: $2,495
Final Payment due May 18, 2026: $4,300
OPTION 2 - PRIVATE ROOM
with ensuite bathroom
$7,795 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Rooming Details:
Room Notes: You will have a small private room for the duration of the trip. Rooms in Japan are significantly smaller than North American standard rooms. Room size is approximately 17 sqm. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Initial Payment due immediately: $2,495
Final Payment due May 18, 2026: $5,300
Important Trip Details
Culinary Notes
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate 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. This trip is best suited for those open and eager to enjoy and experience a variety of regional ingredients and flavors
Please contact us before booking if you have any questions.
Accessibility
Please note this Ace Camp includes multi-day walking tours, you may be on your feet for a couple of hours at a time without rest breaks. You should be able to walk at a moderate pace for a distance of at least 2 miles. Uneven terrain, gravel or dirt pathways, stairs and unpaved walking areas are a possibility.
You may need to be able to sit and kneel on the ground during certain activities. You will have to remove your shoes at various locations in a standing position. Please ensure you are comfortable with these conditions.
Who is this Trip for?
This trip is for the open minded and patient traveler. You should be eager to learn and work hands-on during your workshop session and be curious about regional culture and cuisine.
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
Travel Health
We recommend consulting a doctor, nurse, health care provider, or travel health clinic once we confirm your booking on this Ace Camps Travel trip so you know what may be required based on your individual circumstances and based on the locations you’ll be traveling to. If you have any health concerns, contact your health care provider for advice prior to booking this Ace Camps Travel trip.
Trip Start + End Locations
This trip starts 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, Kobe, Okayama or Osaka, we’ll provide guests with more specific travel suggestions once the trip is guaranteed.
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 45°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.
Included in this Trip
Visit the Art Islands of Naoshima, Teshima + Inujima, with select entry to curated museums and installations
Visit the culinary rich island of Shodoshima
Visit Ritsurin Japanese Garden
Guided tour of Isamu Noguchi’s Sculpture Garden
Hands-on Shibori + indigo dyeing workshops
Learn about Awa Jurobe Yashiki, puppet art traditions developed out of the prosperity of Indigo
Plant based dyeing workshop with madder and persimmon
4 nights accommodation in Takamatsu
1 night accommodation in Shodoshima Island
3 nights accommodation in Tokushima
Transport during included meals and activities
8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
Ace Camps Travel Host
An Ace Camps Travel Host will be with you through your trip, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience. Your Host is there for any questions or concerns, to look out for the health and safety of the group and to help resolve any issues that might arise. This Host is not a local guide but will work with our local partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration. Our local partners are deeply knowledgable in the culture and customs of the area and will be there to share their knowledge and passion with the group.
Not Included in this Trip
International roundtrip airfare; required Travel Insurance; alcoholic drinks; activities and food and beverages not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including but not limited to room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; and all expenses during free time.
Travel Arrangements
Ace Camps Travel will send you detailed Trip Planning information when it’s time to make your travel arrangements. We usually send this information once we’ve reached the minimum number of guests required to run the trip. We’ll also send you an Ace Camps Travel “Preparing for your Journey” document prior to your trip, which will include arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information, and more.
Travel Insurance
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, we require all guests to have Travel Insurance that at minimum covers both medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Cancellations 180 days or fewer prior to the trip start date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy which is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance.
For full details on our Travel Insurance requirements, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Health + Safety
Our goal is for each of our guests to enjoy the amazing trip we’ve put together. To ensure that happens, we put the health and safety of the group as our top priority. Individual guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all destination and layover country requirements and laws, including any Covid-19 related requirements, providing proof of vaccination, testing before or after entry, masking, etc.
During the trip, if you feel unwell, exhibit signs of, or test positive for an illness, you should be prepared to follow the advice of local health authorities as well as the Ace Camps Travel Host to ensure the health and safety of the entire group. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or viral nature of your illness the Ace Camps Travel Host may determine you need to mask, distance, self isolate, or depart the trip early. You are responsible for any expenses incurred from an illness, injury, or early departure including testing, treatment, isolation, accommodation, transportation, etc. and you will not be issued a refund for any unused portion of the trip. This is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance, as outlined in our Terms and Conditions.
For full details on our Health and Safety Policies, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
If you choose to cancel your trip for any reason, you must do so via email to hello@acecampstravel.com. If we receive written notice 181 or more days prior to the Trip start date, we will refund your initial payment, less a $1,000 cancellation fee. If we receive written notice 180 days or fewer prior to the Trip start date you will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the Trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy, including for reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, pandemics, illness, personal, family or medical emergencies, or any other circumstances beyond our control. For this and other reasons, we require you to purchase Travel Insurance.
Be sure to read our Terms and Conditions for full details on Booking and Payment, Cancellation by You and Trip Changes and Cancellations.
Questions + FAQs
If you have any questions about this Ace Camps travel Trip, please feel free to contact us.
You can also read our FAQs here.
Hear from Our Past Guests