Traveling With One Smartphone

Traveling With One Smartphone
2017-ongoing
Performance, video, installation

This is a performance art piece that Yamaguchi has been practicing since 2017, involving domestic and international travel with only a smartphone (and a passport for overseas trips). The work challenges the concept of “national borders,” which often present a significant psychological barrier for Japanese people raised on an island nation, by crossing them with the same ease as visiting a local cafe.

In this minimalist journey, where basic travel essentials such as clothing, cash, and chargers are completely abandoned, modern technology and the kindness of strangers become indispensable. Yamaguchi intentionally places himself in this “vulnerable” state, surrendering to unpredictable situations and responding to them spontaneously.

‘Traveling With One Smartphone’ From Tokyo to Shanghai, China, November 2017

‘Traveling With One Smartphone’ From Tokyo to Los Angeles, US, November 2017

‘Traveling With One Smartphone’ From San Diego, US to Tijuana, Mexico, December 2017

‘Traveling With One Smartphone’ WORKSHOP A collaboration with FUTURE GATEWAY, 2022, KDDI research atelier

‘Traveling With One Smartphone‘
Inkjet print, drawing on World Map, artist’s own passport, 2017-
Solo Exhibition ‘Swept along, but not swept away’ / CourtyardHIROO Galley(Tokyo), 2024

His passport bears the stamp from November 29, 2017, when he successfully entered the United States carrying nothing but a smartphone.