Solo Artistic Retreat on Naoshima Island

Finding Art and Serenity in Everyday Spaces

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Naoshima's artistic soul. It wasn't about grand museums or sprawling installations, but about finding art in the most unexpected places: within the walls of abandoned homes, in the gentle steam of a Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima, and in the quiet corners of local eateries. It’s amazing how art can breathe new life into forgotten spaces, turning the mundane into something magical. I've always believed that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it's about experiencing them fully, letting them change you, and finding pieces of yourself in the unfamiliar. Today, Naoshima offered me just that.


Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. Knowing that it’s a spot that serves vegan dishes, I was excited to try something different. The café had a charming, traditional Japanese home vibe, and the couple running it were incredibly welcoming. I opted for the breakfast set, which was simple but satisfying, and fueled me up for the day's adventures. Sipping my coffee, I felt a sense of calm wash over me, a perfect start to a day dedicated to art and exploration. I made a mental note to try to recreate the veggie soup when I get back home to Toronto for Jihad and Lina. Maybe I can even grow some of the veggies myself on the balcony!

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed towards the Honmura district, home to the Art House Project. This project is truly unique: artists have transformed abandoned houses, temples, and even a shrine into captivating art installations. It's a brilliant concept that breathes new life into these spaces, weaving in the history and memories of their past.

My first stop was Haisha, which translates to dentist. This former dental clinic and residence has been transformed by artist Shinro Ohtake into a mind-bending collage of memories and materials.


Experience the captivating blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Art House Project: Haisha on Naoshima Island.

The beauty of Naoshima lies not just in its art, but in its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, inviting us to see the world through a different lens.

The moment I stepped inside, I was transported into another world. The interior and exterior are assembled from old signboards, metal sheets, glass fragments, and all sorts of discarded objects. It felt like walking through a dream, where different times and cultures collided. The Statue of Liberty replica was particularly striking, a bold and unexpected element in a traditional Japanese house. Reflecting on where these elements might have come from and how they ended up here adds depth to the viewing experience. It's a powerful reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, and that everything has a story to tell.

Wandering through the Honmura district, I appreciated how the Art House Project integrates art into the everyday lives of the residents. As you walk from one installation to another, you pass by traditional houses, gardens, and local shops. It blurs the line between art and life, creating a unique and immersive experience. It reminded me a bit of Zahlé, where I grew up, where the old and the new blend seamlessly, each telling a story of resilience and beauty.

Next on my list was the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. Situated on the coastline, this outdoor installation is designed to harness the dynamic energy flow inspired by Feng Shui principles. It’s a unique concept where you can immerse yourself in a herbal medicine bath while enjoying the serene surroundings. Unfortunately, the bathing experience is exclusively available for Benesse House hotel guests, so I couldn’t partake in the actual bath. However, just being in the space, surrounded by nature and art, was incredibly soothing. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection and contemplation.

For lunch, I ventured to NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda, a charming eatery known for its fresh seafood set meals. The menu changes daily, depending on the catch of the day, which added an element of surprise and excitement. I opted for the grilled fish set, which was incredibly delicious. The fish was perfectly cooked, and the accompanying pickled vegetables and miso soup were bursting with flavor. The staff were welcoming and helpful, offering insights into the menu items and making me feel right at home. It was a delightful culinary experience that showcased the local flavors of Naoshima. It made me think of my mother’s cooking back in Lebanon, where every meal is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients and family traditions.

As the day drew to a close, I decided to treat myself to some pizza at Luke's Pizza & Grill. I'd heard great things about their crispy thin-crust pizzas and their use of local ingredients. The restaurant had a modern and inviting interior, and the aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air. I ordered a half-and-half pizza, with one side featuring local seafood and the other with lotus root and basil sauce. It was a unique and delicious combination that perfectly captured the essence of Naoshima's culinary scene.

With the sun setting, I made my way to Ebisukamo, a cozy izakaya known for its incredible food and friendly owner. This small restaurant has a good old Japanese-style interior, the owner goes above and beyond for his customers. I ordered the yellowtail sashimi and clams in sake, both of which were incredibly fresh and flavorful. The owner was a one-man band, cooking, serving, and clearing away dishes with impressive efficiency. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and I felt like I was experiencing the true heart of Naoshima's local culture.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Ebisukamo, where traditional flavors meet serene island vibes in Naoshima.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I took a leisurely stroll along the Miyanoura Port. The Naoshima Himatsuri (Fire Festival) is held every August, and you can watch a gorgeous fireworks show over the sea from the beach. Other features include live music, dance performances, and more. One of the best parts of this festival is the collaboration of “Naoshima Tsutsuji Daiko (Japanese Drum)” and the fireworks. It felt like the perfect way to end a day filled with art, culture, and culinary delights.


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

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by how Naoshima seamlessly blends art and life. The Art House Project, in particular, is a testament to the power of art to transform spaces and communities. It's a reminder that art is not confined to museums and galleries; it can be found in the most unexpected places, enriching our lives in profound ways. It’s given me some ideas for how we can incorporate more art into our home in Toronto, maybe even try my hand at creating my own little art installation.

Tomorrow, I plan to continue my exploration of Naoshima with visits to La forêt des murmures and Art House Project: Kadoya. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Cin.na.mon for breakfast, Yayoda for lunch, and Kinosaki Udon Naoshima for dinner. Plus, a little shopping at Benesse House Shop. I am excited to see what other hidden gems this island has to offer. Good night from Naoshima, where art and serenity intertwine in the most enchanting ways.

P.S. I really need to remember to buy some sunscreen tomorrow. My face is a little too pink for comfort, and I definitely don’t want to ruin the rest of my trip with a sunburn! Also, a portable charger would be great, as I almost ran out of battery while taking photos today!