Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Art in Motion and Island Flavors

Today was a delightful blend of art and gastronomy, a perfect representation of what Naoshima Island offers. I started my day with a hearty breakfast, explored kinetic sculptures that dance with the wind, and savored the local flavors that make this island so unique. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences.

My day began with a visit to Perma_Naoshima for breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of a traditional Japanese breakfast were enough to energize me for the day ahead. Perma_Naoshima is known for its delicious ramen, but this morning, I opted for a more traditional set meal. It was a delightful way to start the day, fueling me up for the artistic adventures that awaited. It reminded me of the simple breakfasts David and I used to enjoy back in Muncie, before life got too complicated. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back to Berlin; David would love it.


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

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

After breakfast, I set out to explore the outdoor art installations near the Benesse House area. The first stop was the 'Walking Ark', a fascinating piece that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. It's incredible how art can transform a space and invite contemplation. It made me think about how we, as environmental consultants, strive to integrate sustainable solutions into urban landscapes, creating harmony between human development and nature.


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

Next, I spent time admiring George Rickey’s 'Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82'. There's something mesmerizing about kinetic art, how these stainless steel squares move gracefully with the wind, creating an ever-changing sculpture. The way the squares danced in the breeze was captivating. It was a fantastic example of how art can interact with nature, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. The sculpture's technoid surface emphasizes the weight of the squares, but their movement negates this weight, creating a lyrical effect. The geometry integrated into the work hints at mysticism, with the squares evoking the tradition of important mystic numbers. I remember seeing similar works in Berlin, but there was something special about experiencing it outdoors, with the sea breeze adding to the dynamism of the piece. It reminded me of how much David enjoys cycling; I should tell him about this place. He would definitely find inspiration in the mechanics and the artistry of it all.


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.

After immersing myself in the kinetic beauty of George Rickey's work, my stomach started to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. I headed to the Terrace Restaurant, drawn by its reputation for offering both Western and traditional Japanese selections. The restaurant boasts a beautiful view of the misty blue waters, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking in the scenery. I opted for a light lunch, savoring the flavors while enjoying the serene atmosphere. It was a welcome break, allowing me to recharge before continuing my artistic explorations.


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

With renewed energy, I ventured into the Benesse House Shop. It was a treasure trove of art goods, Kagawa Prefecture sweets, and hotel amenities. I picked up a few postcards and a small sculpture as souvenirs. I also found a beautiful set of Naoshima-themed stationery, perfect for sending thank-you notes to friends and colleagues back in Berlin. It’s always a challenge to find gifts that are both unique and representative of the place, but the Benesse House Shop made it easy. I even considered getting something for David, but decided to wait until I found something that truly captured his spirit.


Explore the artistic offerings of Benesse House Shop in Naoshima, a unique souvenir store celebrating local art and craftsmanship with exclusive pieces.

As evening approached, I made my way to Aisunao for dinner. This restaurant is known for its vegan options and traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is located in a converted traditional house, adding to its charm. The blue entrance curtain, adorned with a cute rice bowl, was particularly eye-catching. I opted for the vegan set menu, which was both delicious and reasonably priced. The staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. It was a comforting and satisfying end to a day filled with artistic and culinary discoveries.


Discover Aisunao in Naoshima: Delight in creative vegan dishes amidst Japan's stunning art island.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Teshima Island and explore the Teshima Art Museum and Teshima 8 Million Lab. I’ve heard so much about the Teshima Art Museum, designed by Ryue Nishizawa, and I'm eager to experience its unique architecture and art installations. I also plan to visit Cin.na.mon for a drink in the evening. I'm excited to see what other artistic and cultural treasures await me on Teshima.

Naoshima continues to surprise and delight me with its unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a place where art isn’t confined to museum walls but spills out into the streets, inviting everyone to engage and reflect. As I reflect on my day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible island. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with different cultures and perspectives. And as an environmental consultant, it reinforces my belief in the power of art and culture to inspire positive change and promote sustainable development.

This trip is also making me think about how David and I can incorporate more art into our daily lives back in Berlin. Perhaps we could visit more local galleries or even try our hand at creating our own art. After all, art is not just something to be observed; it's something to be experienced and created. As I prepare for my next adventure, I carry with me the inspiration and insights gained from today's exploration of Naoshima Island. I wonder what tomorrow will bring?