Family Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Finding Harmony in Motion: A Day of Art on Naoshima

Today was another day of artistic exploration here on Naoshima, and it was nothing short of inspiring. The way art interacts with nature on this island is simply magical, and I'm so excited to share our experiences with you. It's amazing how art revitalizes communities, blending the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea with architectural and artistic projects. I'm especially grateful to share these moments with Umar and Aisha, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at RestaurantEN. The restaurant served Japanese dishes made with local seafood and seasonal ingredients. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast, which featured rice cooked in an earthen pot, grilled fish, and miso soup. It was the perfect way to start a day filled with art and exploration. Aisha, ever the fan of trying new things, surprisingly loved the miso soup! Umar enjoyed the Western-style breakfast, which included ham, sausage, and an egg dish. It’s funny how even on vacation, we stick to our usual preferences, but we all appreciated the fresh, local ingredients.

After breakfast, we set out to see the Walking Ark. This sculpture, created by Keisuke Yamaguchi, is inspired by Noah's Ark and looks like a mountain range with legs. It was created to remind visitors of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. I found it incredibly moving, especially considering the resilience of the Japanese people. The way it seemed to walk towards the sea, reminded me of the journey many of us immigrants undertake, always moving forward, always seeking a new horizon. It was a powerful piece that resonated deeply with me.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was George Rickey's 'Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82'. This kinetic sculpture is one of three works by George Rickey displayed on Naoshima. Watching the squares gently sway in the breeze was mesmerizing. It was a beautiful example of how art can interact with its environment, creating a sense of calm and movement simultaneously. Umar, with his engineering background, was particularly fascinated by the mechanics of the sculpture. Aisha, of course, just loved watching the squares dance in the wind.


Experience the captivating movement of George Rickey's Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, a kinetic sculpture blending art and nature on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

For lunch, we headed to NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda. This charming eatery specializes in fish set meals made with the freshest catches of the day. The menu changes daily, so you never know what you're going to get. I opted for the grilled fish set, which was incredibly delicious. The sides, including pickled vegetables, miso soup, and rice, were also excellent. Aisha enjoyed the stewed fish, while Umar went for the sashimi. It was a truly authentic Japanese meal, and we all left feeling satisfied and ready for more art.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at NaoPAM in Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

Our final stop for the day was 'La forêt des murmures' (The Forest of Whispers). This installation by Christian Boltanski is located halfway up Mt. Danyama on Teshima Island. The forest is filled with 400 wind chimes, each with the name of a loved one written on a strip of transparent material. Walking through the forest, listening to the chimes, was a deeply moving experience. It was a beautiful tribute to the memory of those who have passed, and it reminded me of the importance of cherishing our loved ones. I thought of my parents back in Nigeria, and the importance of keeping their memory alive for Aisha. It was a moment of quiet reflection, surrounded by the whispers of the wind and the memories of others.


Immerse yourself in La forêt des murmures, a stunning art exhibit harmonizing nature and creativity in the heart of Tonosho, Kagawa.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, we made a quick stop at the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop. It’s amazing how even on a remote art island, you can find a familiar convenience store. We stocked up on snacks and drinks for the evening. The 7-Eleven even has an ATM, which is super convenient since not all places on the island accept cards.


Discover convenience and comfort at 7-Eleven Naoshima, your go-to spot for snacks, essentials, and an ATM on the beautiful Naoshima Island.

For dinner, we had reservations at Luke's Table. This restaurant, located at My Lodge Naoshima, overlooks the Seto Inland Sea. The concept of Luke's Table is Setouchi slow food, using local ingredients and traditional recipes. We enjoyed a delicious meal while watching the sunset over the sea. The menu featured fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover Luke's Table: A culinary haven on Naoshima offering exquisite Italian dishes and delightful breakfast options in an artistic paradise.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. The way art is integrated into the landscape and daily life here is truly unique. It's a place where you can slow down, appreciate beauty, and connect with your surroundings. I feel so fortunate to be able to share this experience with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Teshima Island to see the Teshima 8 Million Lab and explore more of the Seto Inland Sea. We're also considering a visit to the Kankakei Ropeway and the Chōshi valley Monkey Kingdom Natural Zoo. It sounds like another exciting day, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

The Setouchi Triennale in 2025 promises even more opportunities to experience world-class creativity harmonizing with nature. The festival spans 12 islands and coastal areas, offering unique seasonal allure. We're already planning our return trip to experience more of this incredible region.

Until then, stay tuned for more updates from our art adventure on Naoshima!

Naoshima is easily walkable, allowing you to fully absorb its charm. The blend of art, nature, and local life creates an unforgettable experience. The island is a reminder of the beauty that can be found when art and community come together.