A method for driving a light modulation element includes: applying light to the light modulation element in accordance with an image to be displayed on the light modulation element while applying a DC voltage between a pair of electrode layers of the light modulation element; and applying a pulse voltage having an opposite polarity to the DC voltage applied so far between the pair of electrode layers with the light being applied, and terminating the applying of the light when the applying of the pulse voltage is terminated. The applying of the light, the applying of the pulse voltage and the terminating of the applying of the light are executed sequentially.