Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

A Day of Artistic Immersion

Today was a day dedicated to diving deeper into the artistic soul of Naoshima. After a restful night at My Lodge Naoshima, I was eager to explore more of what this island has to offer. The weather was warm, around 27°C, with a gentle breeze – perfect for wandering between art installations and soaking in the serene atmosphere. I made sure to apply sunscreen, remembering how easily I can get sunburned, a lesson learned from many a summer foraging for mushrooms back home in Lithuania.


Discover affordable comfort at My Lodge Naoshima, an ideal base for exploring the art-laden island while enjoying local cuisine and free parking.

My first stop was the Lee Ufan Museum. After a hearty breakfast at maimai, a charming little spot known for its local fare, I set off. The walk itself was a pleasure, with glimpses of the Seto Inland Sea sparkling in the morning sun. The museum, designed by Tadao Ando, is nestled into the landscape, a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. It's a space dedicated to the minimalist art of Lee Ufan, and I was immediately struck by the sense of calm and contemplation it evoked.


Explore the serene Lee Ufan Museum in Naoshima, where modern art meets nature in a harmonious blend of minimalism and tranquility.

Art is not about the object but about the space in between.

The museum's semi-underground structure allowed for a unique play of light and shadow, enhancing the experience of Lee Ufan's sculptures and paintings. I spent a good couple of hours here, simply wandering and reflecting. The way Ando's concrete structures framed the natural world outside was nothing short of breathtaking. It reminded me of the simple beauty of Lithuanian landscapes, where the sky meets the earth in endless horizons.

Next on my list was the Art House Project, specifically Minamidera and Go'o Shrine. I decided to grab a quick lunch at Issen before heading over to Honmura, where these art houses are located. Issen offered a delightful menu featuring seasonal ingredients, and I opted for a light and refreshing seafood dish.


Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine at Issen on Naoshima Island—where art meets culinary excellence in every bite.

Minamidera, another Ando creation, was an experience in itself. The main attraction is James Turrell's Backside of the Moon, an art piece that plays with your perception of light. Entering the dark space took a moment to adjust to, but once my eyes adapted, the subtle play of light was mesmerizing. It was a reminder of how much we take our senses for granted and how art can heighten our awareness of the world around us. The experience was quite profound, a bit like those quiet moments in a Lithuanian forest, where you become acutely aware of every rustle and shadow.


Discover the Art House Project: Minamidera in Naoshima, where modern art meets traditional Japanese architecture in a serene setting.

Go'o Shrine was equally captivating, though in a different way. Designed by Hiroshi Sugimoto, this Shinto shrine has been restored with a modern makeover. The integration of traditional shrine architecture with contemporary art elements was seamless. Descending the glass staircase into the underground chamber was like stepping into another world. The sunlight filtering through the glass steps created an ethereal atmosphere, blending the physical and spiritual realms. It reminded me of the ancient pagan sites back in Lithuania, where nature and spirituality intertwine.


Discover the serene Art House Project: Go'o Shrine in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets traditional Shinto spirituality in a breathtaking setting.

For dinner, I chose Ebisukamo, a local Japanese restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients. The warm and inviting atmosphere was perfect for a solo traveler like myself. I savored the flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine, reflecting on the day's artistic journey. The staff was incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home, much like the welcoming smiles I often encounter at Lithuanian cultural events in Toronto.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Ebisukamo on Naoshima Island—where local flavors meet serene beauty.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to Bar SARU, a cozy little spot where I enjoyed a glass of local Naoshima beer. The bar had a relaxed vibe, and I struck up a conversation with a few other travelers, sharing our experiences on the island. It was a pleasant way to unwind and connect with like-minded individuals. While enjoying my beer, I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger tomorrow at Mikazukishoten, as my phone was nearly out of battery.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the stars were out, and the island was peaceful. I felt a sense of gratitude for this solo adventure, a chance to immerse myself in art and culture at my own pace. Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the Art House Project, including Kadoya and Haisha, and perhaps even take a dip in the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu. Until then, good night from Naoshima!

The weather forecast for tomorrow, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Naoshima predicts a day with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It will be another lovely day to explore the island's attractions. My plan is to visit the Art House Project: Kadoya and Art House Project: Haisha in the morning, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu. I'll also have breakfast at Café Ippo, lunch at Chikurin, and dinner at Okonomiyaki Umikko. A visit to Mikazukishoten is also on the cards to purchase a portable phone charger.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. It's a place where art, nature, and culture come together in a unique and harmonious way. I am so glad I decided to embark on this solo journey. This trip is turning out to be exactly what I needed – a chance to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with my creative side. I am looking forward to another day of discovery tomorrow!

And I am happy I remembered to pack my camera, so I can capture all the beautiful art installations!