2025 Setouchi Triennale・Shodoshima:An Island Embraced by Sunshine andOlives

Hello everyone, it’s Lai.
Despite being called “Shodoshima” (literally “Small Bean Island”), the island is
actually quite large! With such a vast area to explore, it’s difficult to see all the art
installations in one day without a car. So today, I’ll be introducing a few of my
favorite spots that are accessible by shuttle bus and easy to enjoy without driving.
There are two main ports you can arrive at from Takamatsu—Ikeda Port and
Tonosho Port. Fun fact: depending on the time of year, the ferry interiors have
different designs! If you’re a fan of Slowpoke (Yadon), make sure to ride the special
themed ferry to/from Tonosho!

Gift of the Sun: An Olive Symbol Reaching from Shodoshima
to the World

Once you arrive at Tonosho Port, you’ll be greeted by a massive golden olive
sculpture—Gift of the Sun by artist Choi Jeong Hwa. The shining olive isn’t just a
symbol of the island, but also represents light, life, and connection. It’s a welcomingbeacon and one of Shodoshima’s most iconic artworks.

Embracing Shodoshima: Taiwanese Artist’s Large-Scale Bamboo Creation
Continuing from the previous festival, Taiwanese artist Wang Wen-Chih returns with
another impressive bamboo installation.

Hidden in the mountains, this dome-like structure invites visitors to step inside and
experience sunlight filtering through the irregular weave of bamboo. The subtle

scent of the bamboo and the soft wind create a soothing, immersive space. It’s not
just a message of welcome to travelers around the world, but a warm embrace from
the island itself. A perfect spot for some natural healing.

Lover’s Anchor: Holding On at the Edge of the Sea
Located just outside the Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village, Kiyohisa Seikyu’s work is a
large white mooring post—minimal and unadorned. This installation transforms
something commonly seen at harbors into a symbolic connection between ships and
visitors. Fun fact: the famous “Olive Plane Head” on the island is also one of his
creations!

Maze Town – Meiro no Machi: A Miniature Labyrinth in
Tonosho

The Honmachi district in Tonosho is often called “Maze Town” due to its intricate
network of alleyways. This installation recreates that atmosphere, with white resin
covering the interiors of old buildings. From the outside, the houses look ordinary,
but once inside, you’re surrounded by a dreamlike white labyrinth. A surreal and
surprising journey through familiar spaces transformed.

Olive Park: Make Your Own Heart-Shaped Leaf Bookmark!
Outside of the art festival, Olive Park is another must-visit destination on
Shodoshima! Famous as the filming location for the live-action Kiki’s Delivery Service,
visitors can borrow a broom for free and recreate the iconic scene by the windmill.
But here’s something special: you can pick heart-shaped olive leaves from the
garden and turn them into a custom bookmark using a kit sold at the gift shop. A
one-of-a-kind souvenir from the island of olives!

Shodoshima is an island full of rich flavors, sunshine, and natural beauty. Whether
you love nature, photography, food, or art, you’re sure to find your own rhythm here.
And with so much ground to cover, don’t worry if you can’t see everything in one
go—it just gives you a perfect excuse to come back again.
2025/5 Lai

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