Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island
Day 11: A Sunday of Serenity and Soaks: Discovering Naoshima's Hidden Gems
Uncover Naoshima's charm with fishing, art, and a soothing herbal bath. A perfect Sunday escape blending culture and relaxation.
Island Life: Fishing, Art, and a Relaxing Soak
Today was a day of simple pleasures and unexpected discoveries on Naoshima. From casting a line at the Naoshima Fishing Park, hoping to catch something, anything! I have fond memories of fishing with my grandfather in Indiana. He taught me patience and the quiet joy of waiting for a nibble. While I didn't reel in anything spectacular – just a couple of small, rather unimpressive fish – the experience was incredibly relaxing. The sea breeze, the gentle rocking of the pier, and the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea made it a morning well spent. I even chatted with a local fisherman who shared some tips (which, alas, didn't improve my catch rate, but were appreciated nonetheless!).
Experience fishing and tranquility at Naoshima Fishing Park, a scenic destination for nature lovers in Japan's beautiful Naoshima Island.
My day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. It's a cozy spot in Honmura, and I was looking forward to trying their seasonal menu. I opted for the set lunch. The cafe had a homely feel, and it was a great way to start the day before heading out for more exploration.
Fueled and ready, I decided to try my hand at fishing. I headed to Naoshima Fishing Park, hoping to catch something, anything! I have fond memories of fishing with my grandfather in Indiana. He taught me patience and the quiet joy of waiting for a nibble. While I didn't reel in anything spectacular – just a couple of small, rather unimpressive fish – the experience was incredibly relaxing. The sea breeze, the gentle rocking of the pier, and the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea made it a morning well spent. I even chatted with a local fisherman who shared some tips (which, alas, didn't improve my catch rate, but were appreciated nonetheless!).
After my fishing adventure, it was time for lunch. I made my way to Okonomiyaki Umikko, a local spot known for its savory pancakes. It was a small, family-run place, and the aroma of sizzling okonomiyaki filled the air. I ordered their specialty, the Umikko okonomiyaki, and it was absolutely delicious. It was fun watching the chef prepare it on the hot plate right in front of me. I love finding these little local gems; it's a much more authentic experience than eating at a touristy restaurant.
Savor authentic okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Umikko on Naoshima Island—where every bite celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.
Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.
With my stomach happy, I ventured to the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. This outdoor art installation by Cai Guo-Qiang is not just something to look at, but an experience to be immersed in. I had booked a slot for the herbal medicine bath, and I was intrigued by the concept of soaking in a hot tub surrounded by Taihu rocks, arranged according to Feng Shui principles. The installation is located on the coast, offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. It was a surreal and incredibly relaxing experience, enhanced by the fragrant herbs in the water. The blend of art, nature, and relaxation was exactly what I needed.
Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.
Before dinner, I decided to do some souvenir shopping at the Art Island Center. It's a gallery, bookshop, and art center all in one. I picked up a few postcards and a small sculpture as mementos of my trip. I also enjoyed browsing their selection of art books and learning more about the local art scene. The Art Island Center also supports local artists and researchers, exploring the identity and resilience of the islands of the Setouchi region, so I felt good supporting them.
Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.
As the day drew to a close, I headed to Yayoda for dinner. This seafood restaurant came highly recommended, and I was eager to try their fresh fish. I ordered a selection of sashimi, and it was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant had a cozy, local atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and relaxation.
Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
Reflecting on my day, I realized how much I've come to appreciate the slow pace of life on Naoshima. It's a place where art and nature blend seamlessly, where you can spend a morning fishing, an afternoon soaking in an art installation, and an evening enjoying fresh seafood. It's a place that nourishes the soul.
Tomorrow marks the final day of my art pilgrimage on Naoshima Island. I plan to visit the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower for panoramic views and explore La forêt des murmures. I'm also looking forward to trying Café Ippo for breakfast, Nagomi for lunch, and Restaurant EN for a farewell dinner. And perhaps I'll wind down the trip with a drink at Bar SARU. It’s hard to believe my time here is almost over, but I am excited about the last day and will share all the details with you soon!
As I prepare to leave this enchanting island and head back to Berlin, I'm already planning my next adventure. David and I have been talking about exploring some of the national parks in Germany this summer. Perhaps a hiking trip in the Black Forest or a cycling tour along the Baltic Sea coast? The possibilities are endless, and I can't wait to share those experiences with you as well. Until then, thank you for joining me on this artistic journey through Naoshima. It's been an honor to share my experiences with you, and I hope it inspires you to explore the world responsibly and with an open heart.
Explore Japan's art island, Naoshima, solo. Discover stunning museums, local culture, and serene landscapes while staying at My Lodge Naoshima.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation:
Environmental Consultant
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Country:
Germany
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Age:
33
Hi, I'm Emily, an environmental consultant originally from the USA but now living in Berlin. My passion for sustainable living extends to my travels, and I'm here to share my experiences and insights with you. I believe that travel can be a force for good, and I'm dedicated to exploring the world responsibly, one eco-friendly adventure at a time. Join me as I discover destinations committed to sustainability, savor local cuisine, and share tips for minimizing our impact while maximizing our enjoyment of this beautiful planet.
- Sustainable Living
- Global Cuisine
- Modern Art
- Indie Music
- Urban Gardening
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