At the beginning of the new year, various publications weigh in on the best places to travel for the coming 12 months. Everyone from Lonely Planet to Condé Nast and the New York Times have offered their suggested for 2025, and this year, the BBC have also entered the discussion. Their inaugural 25 best places to travel in 2025 list features a variety of stunning destinations across the globe, with Japan's Naoshima Island making the cut.
It's shaping up to be a big year for Naoshima, with the Setouchi Triennale—one of the country's best art events—taking place from April until November. The combination of innovative displays, a chance to experience local culture, and the natural beauty of this region makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience.
Visitors will also have a chance to explore the Naoshima New Museum of Art, which is set to open in spring this year. The museum is designed by acclaimed architect Tadao Ando (the brains behind other impressive structures like Hokkaido's Hill of the Buddha and Tokyo's 21 21 Design Sight Museum), and its collection will feature works from various Asian artists.
The neighboring island of Teshima was also mentioned in BBC's write-up, with several ferries operating to and from Naoshima each day. The Teshima Art Museum was one of their recommendations, with its unique fusion of art, architecture, and the natural environment making it well worth the visit.
Naoshima's inclusion on the BBC's list reflects the growing global recognition of the island's transformation into a cultural hub, and helps to shine a light on how art and sustainable travel can work together to revitalize regional communities.
