Ogijima

Just 40 minutes by ferry from Takamatsu, Ogijima is a tiny island with a big personality. Perched on a hillside in the Seto Inland Sea, this quiet village is known for its art-filled alleys, maze-like streets and an unusually high number of feline residents. With only about 160 locals, Ogijima offers a peaceful escape where contemporary art meets island life.

Ogijima “Cat Island”

Photo by: PIXTA/ tomtom

Ogijima first gained national attention through the Setouchi Triennale, a contemporary art festival that helped breathe new life into this aging fishing community. Many of the festival’s installations were designed to reflect everyday island life and several have become permanent fixtures on the island.

At the heart of the island is the Ogi Exchange Center, known as Ogijima’s Soul. This striking white building was designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. It doubles as the island’s information center, ferry terminal and art installation, with a roof constructed from characters of eight different languages.

Just a short walk from the port is the Walking Ark, a large-scale sculpture inspired by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. It appears to stride across the island toward the horizon as a reminder of hope and resilience.

In recent years, Ogijima has also earned the nickname “Cat Island,” thanks to its sizable feline population. Like other rural islands in Japan, Ogijima saw a sharp population decline, with many young people leaving for the mainland. As the number of residents dwindled, cats became a comforting and constant presence in the narrow streets and sunny doorways. Today, they’re as much a part of the island’s identity as its art and architecture.

Things To Do

Photo by: PIXTA/ Skylight

Explore the Maze-like Village

Ogijima’s single village climbs steeply up the mountain from the harbor. Walking through its wooden homes, twisting lanes and unexpected views feels like stepping into a living Japanese museum. Don’t miss the Wallalley Project, where artist Rikuji Makabe transformed scrap material into colorful murals displayed throughout the village’s narrow alleys.

Visit Toyotamahime Shrine

Halfway up the hillside, Toyotamahime-jinja Shrine offers panoramic views over the island and the Seto Inland Sea. Traditionally visited by people praying for safe childbirth, it’s a quiet place to sit, reflect and watch the ferries sail by. 

Ogijima Lighthouse and Daffodil Fields

At the island’s northern tip is the granite-built Ogijima Lighthouse, one of the few in Japan made entirely of stone. It takes about 30 minutes on foot from the port, along a scenic path lined with wildflowers. Come in February to see millions of blooming Daffodils. 

Setouchi Triennale 2025

Ogijima is one of the official art islands of the Setouchi Triennale, an international art festival held every 3 years. You can expect to find a mix of indoor galleries, outdoor sculptures and interactive works across the island.