Solo Artistic Retreat on Naoshima Island

A Day of Artistic Awakening

As I stepped onto Naoshima Island, I felt a sense of anticipation mixed with the tranquility that only a solo journey can bring. The island, known for its contemporary art museums and outdoor installations, promised a unique experience, a blend of art, nature, and architecture. Today was all about diving headfirst into that promise, and I couldn't wait to see what Naoshima had in store for me.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. The cafe is known for using local Setouchi ingredients. I opted for a vegetarian-friendly meal to fuel my artistic explorations. The cafe's cozy atmosphere and commitment to local produce made it the perfect start to my day.

Benesse House Museum: Where Art Meets Nature

My first stop was the Benesse House Museum. As I approached, the architecture by Tadao Ando immediately struck me. The museum is designed with large apertures that open up the interior to the natural surroundings. It was as if the building itself was an extension of the landscape.


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

Inside, the concept of coexistence of nature, art, and architecture truly came to life. The artworks weren't confined to the galleries; they were scattered throughout the building, along the seashore, and in the nearby forest. I found myself unexpectedly encountering sculptures and installations at every turn, each piece thoughtfully placed to interact with its environment.

The museum showcased a diverse collection of contemporary art, blending Japanese and international influences. From Yayoi Kusama's iconic Yellow Pumpkin to Hiroshi Sugimoto's evocative photographs, each artwork resonated with the island's natural beauty and cultural history. I spent hours wandering through the galleries and outdoor spaces, completely absorbed in the dialogue between art and nature.

Chichu Art Museum: Subterranean Wonders

Next on my list was the Chichu Art Museum, another masterpiece designed by Tadao Ando. This museum is built mostly underground to minimize its impact on the landscape. As I descended into the earth, I felt a sense of entering a sacred space.


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

The museum's collection is small but powerful, featuring works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Monet's Water Lilies series was particularly captivating. The murals were displayed in a room designed to mimic the natural light of Giverny, creating an immersive experience. Turrell's light installations played with perception, challenging the way I saw the space around me. And De Maria's geometric sculpture was a study in balance and harmony.

What struck me most about the Chichu Art Museum was how it utilized natural light. The light filtered through openings in the ceiling, illuminating the artworks in subtle and ever-changing ways. It was as if the museum itself was a living, breathing artwork.

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

Before leaving, I took a stroll through the Chichu Garden. The garden features plants and trees similar to those that Monet cultivated in his own garden at Giverny. It was a peaceful oasis, a reminder of the connection between art and nature.

Art House Project: Minamidera: Experiencing Darkness and Light

In the afternoon, I ventured to the Honmura district to experience the Art House Project. This project transforms abandoned houses into contemporary art installations. I visited several of the houses, each offering a unique perspective on art and community.

The highlight was Minamidera, a building designed by Tadao Ando to house a light installation by James Turrell. Inside, I was led into a completely dark room. As my eyes adjusted, a subtle light began to emerge, revealing a hidden space. It was an experience that played with perception and challenged my understanding of light and darkness. The experience is interactive, with a limited number of visitors allowed at a time. The building was once a temple, and Ando's design seeks to preserve this history by facilitating Turrell's art. The hole that exists at the end of the room is designed by Turrell to look like a flat screen television on a white wall. The structure was created by Turrell to play with the way we perceive light.


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

A Culinary End to a Creative Day

For dinner, I decided to treat myself to a sushi at New Olympia. The restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine. I savored each bite, reflecting on the day's artistic encounters. The cozy ambiance and friendly service made it the perfect end to a day of exploration. The server was proficient in English. The restaurant offers a Kaiseki multi-course dinner experience.

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the island was quiet and peaceful. The stars twinkled above, and the gentle sea breeze carried the scent of salt and pine. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Naoshima had awakened my senses and challenged my perceptions.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Lee Ufan Museum, explore the Art House Project: Kadoya, and see the Yellow Pumpkin. I'm also hoping to enjoy a breakfast at Café Ippo, have lunch at Little Plum, and try the Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. And maybe, just maybe, I'll end the day with a drink at Bar SARU.

Naoshima is a place where art is not just something to be observed; it's something to be experienced, to be lived. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm also realizing I forgot to pack sunscreen and a portable charger. Note to self to buy them tomorrow!