Teshima all about preparation! What are the essential reservations and preparations? Report to Prepare for Island Travel

Teshima is a well-known island among those interested in islands and art in the Seto Inland Sea. With a circumference of about 18 km and a population of about 750, it has long been an island rich in industry and agriculture, as the Chinese character for "rich island" implies. The Setouchi Triennale is held in spring, summer, and fall, but there are also facilities where visitors can enjoy the art outside of the Triennale, so those who cannot make it during the Triennale can still have a chance to experience art.
There are two ports in Teshima: Ieura Port and Karato Port. Ieura Port has more services and is dotted with souvenir stores, rental cars, and bicycle rental stores. Karato Port has fewer services, but the popular Teshima Art Museum is nearby. It takes about 35 minutes from Takamatsu Port by passenger boat, with some services going through Naoshima, which takes about 50 minutes. In addition to Takamatsu Port, passenger boats also depart from Uno Port in Okayama, which takes 30 to 40 minutes. There is also a ferry service from the port of Tonosho in Shodoshima which also takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Although the various routes may seem accessible, there are not many services on each route, and most of the passenger boats have a smaller capacity than the ferries, so plan your trip well in advance.

When visiting the island as a tourist, most visitors use buses, bicycles, or rented cars to get around the island, although some rarely travel on foot. The roads on the island are very up and down, so we recommend that you choose an electric bicycle when renting a bicycle.

●Precautions for bicycles
It is very pleasant to ride a bicycle with the wind in your face and enjoy the scenery, but Teshima many roads with curves and descents. However, there are many curves and descents in Teshima, so be careful not to ride too fast because you may be distracted by the beautiful scenery, or you may not notice cars ahead of you on the curves. When taking photos or videos, park your bicycle out of the way, get off your bicycle, and take photos or videos in a safe place.

●Bus cautions
Buses have stops near major art facilities, making it an efficient way to view art. However, the number of buses is limited and the buses themselves are small, so it is often impossible to board when there are many tourists. If you must take the bus at that time, make sure to get to the bus stop early.

There are no convenience stores in Teshima. There are a few private stores and a few vending machines, but they do not always have what you want. When visiting Teshima, we recommend that you bring more drinks than usual and some snacks just in case. As for accommodations, stylish guesthouses and private accommodations are available, but they are fully booked during the peak season. If you wish to stay overnight, make reservations as early as possible. Also, be sure to act early when taking a boat from Takamatsu to Teshima or Teshima back to Takamatsu. Unlike ferries, passenger boats have a smaller capacity, so it is often impossible to get on the flight you want. If you are going from Takamatsu to Teshima on a morning flight during peak season, it is recommended that you go to the ticket office one hour in advance. When visiting Teshima, be sure to make more careful preparations for food, drink, lodging, and transportation than on other islands.
As with all islands, be careful of accidents and injuries, and take precautions against heat stroke and insects. Bicycling in an unusual environment can lead to unexpected injuries. Since this is a remote island, it is not always possible to go to the hospital immediately in case of injury. Please be very careful about accidents and injuries so that you do not get yourself into trouble and so that others around you do not get into trouble. It is the same with heat stroke. On an island without tall buildings, there is little shade and you may have to wait for a long time under the blazing sun unexpectedly. Please take more careful precautions against heat stroke than you would in the city. Insects are also common on the islands, where nature is abundant. Insect repellent spray is a must, especially during the season when you are exposed to a lot of skin.

Teshima is a beautiful island not only on sunny days, but also on rainy days, when the rain falls and the water seeps into the island and flows into the sea. You can feel as if you are there in this cycle. On rainy days, the mountains and ocean are shrouded in mist, blurring the boundaries and creating a fantastic view. If you are planning a trip to Teshima in the future, do not change your plans if it rains and enjoy Teshima the rain.
There is an observatory at the top of Mt. Dan, and the road in front of the observatory is lined with cherry blossom trees, which are very beautiful during the cherry blossom season. As you drive along the road, you will see cherry petals fluttering down, and even the road is pink with the petals, making it look like a dream world. This is a must-visit place during the cherry blossom season. You will need to rent a car to get to Danzan, so please make reservations in advance and drive carefully.