Awashima

You should bring drinks and snacks, as well as "what-if" items such as band-aids and medicines.
Convenience stores and supermarkets, which can be found everywhere in town, are very rare on the small islands across the sea. NaoshimaShodoshimaNaoshima have convenience stores. Some islands have no stores or vending machines. This is why the islands are filled with a peaceful atmosphere away from everyday life. Also, during the busy Setogei period, restaurants may be full and you may find yourself saying, "I can't get lunch! There are times when you may not be able to find lunch because the restaurants are full. It is a good idea to bring drinks and snacks with you. Especially during the hot summer season, take plenty of water with you. If you have a shoe rash and need to buy a bandage, be prepared to save your own life!

Before visiting Awashima, there is a free parking lot at Suda Port in Mitoyo City but we recommend that you come with plenty of time to spare if you plan to drive there, as the lot is full at times during the busy season. Of course, you can also get to the port by means other than car (there is a city bus that connects JR Takuma Station and Suda Port).

Boat tickets are only sold one way; it is recommended that you buy your return ticket as soon as you can afford to do so once you arrive in Awashima. The peak time for afternoon return trips is around 2:00 p.m., followed by 5:00 p.m. (extra trips may be available during peak season). If you are so inclined, please return at 5:00 p.m. to feel the slow island time. Many art spots close for viewing at 4:00 p.m., but we recommend that you spend the time waiting for the boat to return to the natural spots around the harbor and the spots where the islanders are hospitable, relaxing and feeling the island memories.

Getting around Awashima can be done on foot, by renting a bicycle, or by green slow-mobility (a transportation service utilizing electric vehicles that can travel on public roads at speeds of less than 20 km/h). Most spots are concentrated around Awashima harbor, so walking is fine. However, if you want to go to the quieter eastern side of the island, we recommend renting a motorized bicycle or taking a shared ride with Greenslow Mobility (check the timetable). Please note that the number of rental bikes is limited.

Awashima Artists' Village" and "Drifting Post Office" are basically open every Saturday, even outside of the Setouchi Triennale period. If you are short on time and wish you had more time to see the artworks...please take your time to visit again.