Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Island Dreams Begin

After what felt like an eternity of travel – the flight from Toronto to Tokyo, the bullet train to Okayama, and finally, the ferry – I arrived on Naoshima Island. The air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the dry air I'm used to, but the excitement bubbling inside me was more than enough to offset any discomfort. This solo trip, a long-cherished dream, was finally underway. I was eager to immerse myself in the art and culture that this small island promised.

My first stop was APRON CAFE for breakfast. It was a quaint little place. Fuelled by a strong coffee and a light pastry, I felt ready to take on the day.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

My first major stop was the Chichu Art Museum. Nestled into the landscape, the museum itself is a work of art. The architecture is breathtaking, designed by Tadao Ando, and the way natural light is incorporated into the exhibits is simply stunning. The museum houses pieces by James Turrell, Walter De Maria, and Claude Monet. Monet’s *Water Lilies* felt particularly poignant, viewed in a serene, naturally lit room. I spent a good two hours here, lost in contemplation and wonder. The way the art interacted with the architecture and the natural light created an almost spiritual experience. It reminded me of the quiet moments I find in my garden back in Toronto, tending to my own little patch of beauty.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

Leaving the Chichu Art Museum, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The island itself seemed to hum with a quiet energy, a sense of creativity and contemplation that was infectious. I wandered toward the Benesse House Museum, another architectural marvel. This museum combines a hotel and art spaces, blurring the lines between living and art. The outdoor sculptures scattered around the grounds were particularly captivating. I found myself drawn to each piece, pondering its meaning and its relationship to the surrounding landscape. The Benesse House Shop was a delight, filled with unique art books and souvenirs. I picked up a small print to remind me of my visit.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

Lunch at Perma_Naoshima was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a laid-back, island vibe. I enjoyed a delicious seafood meal, savoring the fresh flavors and the tranquil atmosphere. It was a perfect spot to recharge before continuing my exploration.


Experience authentic ramen at Perma_Naoshima, where culinary tradition meets the artistic charm of Naoshima Island.

As the afternoon sun began to dip lower in the sky, I made my way to the iconic Yellow Pumpkin. This sculpture, by Yayoi Kusama, is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Naoshima Island. Perched on a pier, overlooking the sea, the pumpkin seemed to glow in the late afternoon light. I joined the throng of visitors eager to capture a photo with this whimsical piece of art. It was a fun, lighthearted moment, a reminder that art can be both profound and playful.


Discover the iconic Yellow Pumpkin in Naoshima, a vibrant sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, blending contemporary art with stunning coastal views.

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

For dinner, I ventured into Naoshima Yokocho, a charming collection of small eateries. I opted for a local seafood restaurant, eager to sample the island’s culinary offerings. The meal was simple but delicious, the fish incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was a perfect end to a day filled with artistic and cultural discoveries.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting at Naoshima Yokocho - where tradition meets artistry on Naoshima Island.

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the stars began to emerge, twinkling in the clear night sky. The island was quiet, peaceful, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this experience. Traveling solo has its challenges, but it also offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection and discovery. I thought of James and Eglė back home. I missed them, of course, but I also knew that this time alone was precious, a chance to reconnect with myself and my passions.


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

The lodge was simple but comfortable. The room was clean and functional, perfect for a weary traveler. As I settled in for the night, I thought about tomorrow’s itinerary. The Lee Ufan Museum and the Art House Project: Minamidera and Go'o Shrine await, promising more artistic adventures. I drifted off to sleep, my mind filled with images of art, architecture, and the serene beauty of Naoshima Island. I was already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger when I get back to the mainland. My phone battery was almost dead, a rookie mistake for a travel blogger! I also wished I had packed an umbrella; the weather forecast for the next few days predicted some rain. Oh well, live and learn!

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much this trip already meant to me. As an administrative assistant in Toronto, my days are often filled with routine and paperwork. This trip to Naoshima was a chance to break free from that routine, to immerse myself in art and culture, and to reconnect with my creative spirit. It was a reminder that life is about more than just work and responsibilities; it's about exploring the world, experiencing new things, and finding beauty in unexpected places. I felt a renewed sense of purpose, a determination to bring that sense of wonder and inspiration back home with me to Toronto.

I also thought about my Lithuanian heritage and how it has shaped my perspective on art and culture. Growing up in Kėdainiai, I was surrounded by history and tradition. My grandmother, in particular, instilled in me a deep appreciation for folk art and craftsmanship. She taught me how to weave traditional Lithuanian sashes and how to decorate Easter eggs with intricate patterns. These experiences shaped my understanding of art as something that is deeply connected to community and culture. On Naoshima, I saw how art can transform a place, bringing people together and creating a sense of shared identity. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural traditions, both in Lithuania and around the world.

I am also excited to see what tomorrow brings. The Art House Project, in particular, intrigues me. I have read about how artists have transformed abandoned houses and temples into unique art spaces, blending the old and the new in unexpected ways. The idea of breathing new life into forgotten spaces resonates deeply with me. It reminds me of my own efforts to find beauty in the everyday, to see the potential for transformation in even the most mundane situations. Maybe this is why I love gardening so much. The Art House Project seems like an extension of that same impulse, a way of creating something beautiful and meaningful out of what already exists.

And then there's the Lee Ufan Museum, dedicated to the work of the Korean minimalist painter and sculptor. I am drawn to minimalist art because of its simplicity and its focus on essential forms. It challenges me to see the world in a new way, to appreciate the beauty of empty space and the power of suggestion. I am curious to see how Lee Ufan's work interacts with the architecture of Tadao Ando, another master of minimalism. I suspect that the combination of these two artistic sensibilities will create a truly transformative experience. I'm also planning to visit Bar SARU tomorrow evening, hoping to meet some locals and learn more about the island's culture and history. I always find that the best travel experiences come from connecting with people, hearing their stories, and sharing a moment of genuine connection.

As I closed my eyes, I whispered a quiet prayer of thanks for this incredible journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore Naoshima Island, to immerse myself in its art and culture, and to reconnect with my own creative spirit. I know that this trip will stay with me long after I return to Toronto, a reminder of the power of art to transform our lives and our world.