Family Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Reaching New Heights on Shodoshima Island

Today was all about exploring the natural beauty and spiritual side of Shodoshima Island, a delightful detour from our artistic immersion in Naoshima. We ventured into the heart of the island, seeking panoramic views and a touch of tranquility. It’s amazing how much variety this region offers, from modern art to serene landscapes, all within a short distance.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Akaito Coffee. This charming little café, just a short walk from Miyanoura Port, was the perfect spot to fuel up for our adventures. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home. I opted for their signature medium roast, while Umar enjoyed a cup of their rich cocoa. Aisha, of course, was thrilled with her children's cocoa and a stack of picture books they had available. It's these small, family-friendly touches that make a place truly special. The owner, who grew up on Naoshima, was kind enough to share some insights about the island that you wouldn’t find in any guidebook. It’s always wonderful to connect with locals and hear their stories.


Discover Akaito Coffee on Naoshima Island, where art, literature, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee create an unforgettable experience.

After breakfast, we hopped on a ferry to Shodoshima, eager to experience a different facet of the Seto Inland Sea. Shodoshima is the largest of the islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Known for its olives, soy sauce production, and stunning natural landscapes, it promised a day full of exploration and discovery. The ferry ride itself was a treat, with the refreshing sea breeze and the sight of the islands dotting the horizon. Aisha was particularly excited, pointing out every boat and bird we passed.

Ascending Kankakei Gorge

Our first stop was the Kankakei Ropeway Kountei Station. The Kankakei Gorge is considered one of the three most beautiful gorges in Japan, and I was eager to see it for myself. The ropeway extends from the foothills right up to the mountain peak. As we ascended via the Kankakei Ropeway, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The valley unfolded beneath us, revealing a tapestry of lush greenery and unique rock formations. I couldn’t help but snap photos at every turn, trying to capture the sheer grandeur of the scenery. The Seto Inland Sea sparkled in the distance, providing a stunning contrast to the rugged mountain vistas. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the bustling port towns we had been exploring.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kagawa, Japan, with a scenic ride on the Kankakei Ropeway, where adventure meets stunning vistas.

The world reveals itself to those who travel on foot.

At the top, we explored the area around the Kountei Station. There was a souvenir shop and a fast-food eatery. The staff were very friendly, reminding guests of the car departure time. We spent some time admiring the panoramic views before deciding to explore further.

Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower: A 360-Degree Panorama

Next on our itinerary was the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower. Situated in a valley between Mt. Hoshigajo and Shihozashi, the tower promised even more stunning views of the unique rock formations. The Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower offers visitors a sweeping 360° panorama from its observation deck. As we climbed the tower, the landscape opened up before us, revealing a breathtaking panorama of Shodoshima. From this vantage point, we could see the intricate coastline, the patchwork of fields and olive groves, and the distant islands shimmering in the sunlight. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, and I felt a sense of wonder at the natural beauty surrounding us.


Discover breathtaking views and the serene beauty of Shodoshima at the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower, an unforgettable tourist attraction.

Aisha, never one to be left out, was thrilled with the height and kept pointing out various landmarks she could spot. Umar, ever the patient photographer, captured the scene from every angle, determined to preserve the memory of this stunning vista. I took a moment to simply breathe and soak it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty with my family.

Gokurakuji Temple: A Moment of Serenity

Our final stop for the day was Gokurakuji Temple, a Shingon Sect temple dating back about 1,200 years ago. Nestled amidst the greenery, Gokurakuji Temple offered a serene contrast to the expansive views we had just enjoyed. As we entered the temple grounds, a sense of calm washed over us. The air was filled with the scent of incense, and the gentle rustling of leaves created a peaceful ambiance. We took our time exploring the temple, admiring the traditional architecture and the intricate details of the statues and carvings.


Discover the serene beauty of Gokurakuji Temple in Naoshima, a peaceful Buddhist sanctuary steeped in history and surrounded by nature's tranquility.

Aisha was fascinated by the Jizo statues, each adorned with a small red bib. Umar, always respectful, offered a silent prayer at the main hall. I found myself drawn to the temple's garden, a meticulously maintained space of moss-covered stones, sculpted trees, and a small pond. It was a place of quiet contemplation, and I spent a few moments simply sitting on a bench, listening to the sounds of nature and letting the tranquility of the temple wash over me.

Lunch at Terrace Restaurant

For lunch, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Terrace Restaurant. Located at Benesse House, the restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine with a set menu or à la carte options. We opted for the set menu, eager to sample the local flavors with a French twist. The food was beautifully presented and incredibly delicious, with each dish showcasing the freshness of the ingredients. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both elegant and relaxed.


Experience fine dining at Terrace Restaurant in Naoshima—where art meets exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the panoramic views of Kankakei Gorge to the serene atmosphere of Gokurakuji Temple, Shodoshima had offered a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. It was a day that nourished both our bodies and our souls, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family.

Shopping at Shimacoya

Before heading back to Naoshima, we made a quick stop at Shimacoya. This unique shop is located in a 120-year-old traditional Japanese house and offers a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. I was particularly drawn to the denim accessories crafted by one of the co-owners. We picked up a few small items as mementos of our trip, including a beautiful indigo-dyed scarf and a set of hand-painted ceramic coasters.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

As the sun began to set, we boarded the ferry back to Naoshima, our hearts full of memories from our day on Shodoshima. The sky was ablaze with color, painting a breathtaking backdrop to the islands we passed. Aisha, tired but happy, fell asleep in my arms, her face flushed with the day's adventures. Umar and I exchanged a smile, knowing that this was a day we would cherish for years to come.

Dinner at Cin.na.mon

For dinner, we chose Cin.na.mon, a stylish restaurant and bar near Miyanoura Port. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with traditional tatami rooms and serves delicious curried seafood. We opted for the Naoshima seafood curry, which was packed with fresh, local seafood and had a wonderful blend of spices. The funky ambiance and friendly service made it a perfect end to our day.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.

As we head into our final day tomorrow, I am excited to see what else Naoshima has to offer. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima, Kasaneiwa, and Drink a Cup of Tea. I’m also looking forward to ending our trip with a nightcap at Bar SARU.

It’s hard to believe our art adventure is coming to an end. This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to bond with my family, explore a new culture, and nurture our appreciation for art and beauty. I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us. Until then, I will cherish the memories we have made on this enchanting island.