Family Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Day of Discovery Beyond Naoshima

Today, our family ventured beyond Naoshima, eager to explore more of the Seto Inland Sea's hidden gems. We set our sights on Teshima and Shodoshima, islands promising a blend of art, nature, and unique cultural experiences. Little did we know, this day would be filled with delightful surprises and breathtaking moments that would etch themselves into our travel memories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tee's DELI GROCERY. Aisha was particularly excited about the pastries, while Umar and I opted for some traditional Japanese breakfast sets to fuel our adventurous day. With our stomachs full and spirits high, we hopped on a ferry to Teshima Island, our first stop of the day. I was excited to see more of the art the area had to offer.


Discover the flavors of Naoshima at Tee's DELI GROCERY, where great food meets artistic vibes in an unforgettable dining experience.

Teshima 8 Million Lab: Where Art Meets Mythology

Our first artistic stop on Teshima was the Teshima 8 Million Lab. The name itself, referring to the countless gods in Shinto religion, hinted at the intriguing experience that awaited us. This unique space, conceived by artist Sputniko!, explores the intersection of art and science, creating a modern mythology that resonates with Japanese culture.


Discover the unique Teshima 8 Million Lab, where contemporary art meets the serene beauty of Teshima Island in Japan's Kagawa Prefecture.

As we approached the lab, the torii gates lining the entrance immediately caught my eye, blending traditional Shinto elements with contemporary art. Inside, the art installations sparked conversations about our evolving relationship with science and technology. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the displays, asking insightful questions that showed her growing understanding of the world around her. The building itself was an interesting blend of old and new.

Art isn't just about what you see; it's about the questions it provokes and the connections it creates.

Leaving Teshima, we boarded another ferry to Shodoshima, an island known for its natural beauty and, as Aisha reminded us, monkeys! But before encountering our primate friends, we stopped for lunch at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂. This charming eatery offered a delicious array of local dishes, and I decided to try the fresh seafood, a true taste of the Seto Inland Sea. Umar enjoyed a hearty bowl of ramen, while Aisha happily munched on some tempura. It was the perfect midday refuel before our next adventure.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

Monkeying Around at Chōshi valley Monkey Kingdom Natural Zoo

Our next stop was the Chōshi valley Monkey Kingdom Natural Zoo, and Aisha could barely contain her excitement. As we entered the park, we were immediately greeted by the sight of Japanese macaques roaming freely. It was an incredible experience to observe these creatures up close, watching them groom each other, play, and simply go about their daily lives.


Experience the lively antics of Japanese macaques at Chōshi Valley Monkey Kingdom, a unique natural zoo in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

We bought some soybeans to feed the monkeys, and Aisha giggled with delight as they cautiously approached her, gently taking the treats from her hand. The staff were very helpful, offering tips on how to interact with the monkeys safely and respectfully. It was fascinating to learn about their social dynamics and behaviors. I was glad that we were able to experience this together as a family.

Kankakei Ropeway: A Breathtaking Ascent

With the afternoon sun casting a golden glow, we made our way to the Kankakei Ropeway, eager to witness the panoramic views Shodoshima had to offer. As we boarded the cable car, the anticipation grew with each passing moment. The ropeway climbed steadily, revealing a stunning vista of lush greenery, jagged rock formations, and the sparkling Seto Inland Sea.


Discover the stunning views and serene nature of Kankakei Ropeway in Shodoshima, Kagawa - a must-visit attraction for every traveler.

The five-minute ride was nothing short of spectacular, offering a unique perspective of the island's natural beauty. From the summit, we soaked in the breathtaking scenery, feeling a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the landscape. The Kankakei Gorge has been recognized as one of the most beautiful valleys in Japan, and it was easy to see why. The fresh air and stunning views were a welcome treat. The Kankakei Ropeway is the only one in Japan that allows views of the sky, sea, and gorge simultaneously.

After a day filled with art, nature, and playful encounters, we were ready for a relaxing dinner. We chose Nagomi for our evening meal, a local restaurant known for its traditional Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the food was simply divine. We savored each bite, reminiscing about the day's adventures and sharing our favorite moments.


Discover Nagomi in Naoshima - where authentic Japanese dining meets community spirit in a cozy setting.

Before heading back to Naoshima, Umar and I managed to sneak away for a quick drink at maimai. It was a perfect way to unwind and reflect on our incredible day of island hopping. Sipping on local craft beer, we watched the sunset paint the sky with vibrant hues, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the Seto Inland Sea.


Discover Maimai: A must-visit hamburger cafe on Naoshima Island, blending delicious tastes with artistic vibes in a tranquil setting.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Shodoshima, including the Kankakei Ropeway Kountei Station, Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower, and Gokurakuji Temple. Aisha is already excited about the new adventures that await us, and so am I. This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with my family, immerse ourselves in Japanese culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. I'm also hoping to find a little souvenir at Shimacoya.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing new adventures and seeking out the hidden gems that lie beyond the familiar. The Seto Inland Sea has captivated me with its unique blend of art, nature, and culture, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about opening your mind to new possibilities.