Where Art Meets the Seto Inland Sea: Inside SIMOSE Art Garden Villa  

For guests drawn to Japan’s celebrated art islands, Naoshima has long held a special place on the itinerary. Its museums, architecture and immersive relationship with the surrounding landscape have helped redefine how art can be experienced within a destination.  

Yet, if you head West across the Seto Inland Sea to Hiroshima Prefecture, another property is quietly attracting attention among those looking for a different perspective on Japan’s contemporary art scene. 

Famed for its floating torii gate and centuries of spiritual heritage, Miyajima is one of Japan’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors each year. Across the water, overlooking the island and the Seto Inland Sea, SIMOSE Art Garden Villa was conceived by internationally renowned architect Shigeru Ban. Known for his innovative use of materials and ability to create buildings that respond sensitively to their surroundings, Ban has designed a special retreat where the landscape remains central to every moment of the stay. 

The villas are thoughtfully positioned throughout the grounds, each offering its own perspective of the surrounding landscape. Some overlook peaceful water gardens with views towards Miyajima, while others are tucked among the trees revealing a spectacular opening out over the seas. Inside, the interiors deliberately give way to the exceptional views. One villa, with its floor to ceiling glass walls frame the outside light and coastline, creating a sense of being part of the landscape rather than simply viewing it.  

The paper tube villa stands out as one of the more distinctive stays. Constructed using 110 paper cylinders, it showcases one of Ban’s most recognisable design techniques. Rather than simply supporting the structure, the cylinders shape the villa itself, creating its distinctive S-shaped form and giving guests the opportunity to stay inside one of Ban’s most innovative architectural concepts. 

What distinguishes SIMOSE Art Garden Villa, however, is its relationship with art.

At the heart of the property sits the Simose Art Museum, a striking example of contemporary architecture in itself. Floating gallery pavilions, painted in vibrant colours and set upon the water, create a striking contrast against the surrounding landscape. As evening falls, the illuminated galleries transform the scene once again, creating a memorable night-time view.  

Inside lies a carefully curated programme of exhibitions showcasing both Japanese and international artists with displays changing throughout the year. Rather than overwhelming visitors with scale, the museum offers a more intimate experience allowing time to engage with individual works and the ideas behind them.  

The property’s permanent collection includes works by Art Nouveau glass master Emile Gallé. Displayed on a rotating basis throughout the museum, restaurant and other spaces, the changing selection encourages guests to discover the collection from a fresh perspective with each visit.  

Throughout the property, guests encounter thoughtfully positioned artworks, sculptural elements and architectural details that encourage a slower, more attentive way of experiencing their surroundings.  

SIMOSE French Restaurant is led by Chef Keisuke Fujiya, whose cuisine draws heavily on the ingredients and producers of the surrounding Hiroshima region. Combining classical French technique with a strong sense of place, his menus showcase the seasonal character of the Seto Inland Sea through exceptional dishes that highlight local seafood, vegetables and artisanal produce. 

For those who have already visited Naoshima, SIMOSE Art Garden Villa offers a fresh perspective on Japan’s contemporary art scene. For others, it presents an alternative that combines world-class architecture, thoughtfully curated exhibitions and exceptional accommodation within a single destination. 

Guests staying for more than one night can even experience a different villa each evening, allowing them to appreciate the distinct character of each setting while the hotel seamlessly transfers their luggage. For those with a particular interest in art, private out-of-hours visits to the museum can also be arranged. 

Located just moments from a private marina, SIMOSE Art Garden Villa can be reached by yacht, while private boat transfers to Miyajima and bespoke cruises through the Seto Inland Sea can also be arranged. 

The most memorable journeys are shaped around the experiences that matter to you. From privately arranged museum visits and remarkable architecture to time spent exploring the Seto Inland Sea, our travel experts can create an itinerary that goes beyond the expected. Speak to our team to start planning your journey.