Exploring the Art and Culture of Naoshima Island

Arrival in Artistic Paradise

The ferry ride from Uno Port was my first taste of the Seto Inland Sea, a shimmering expanse dotted with islands promising adventure. As we approached Naoshima, the anticipation bubbled inside me. This island, a haven for modern art, architecture, and nature, has been on my travel list for ages. Stepping onto the pier, I felt a sense of calm wash over me, a stark contrast to the bustling city life I left behind in Hannover. I knew this solo journey would be something special.

My first stop was APRON CAFE for breakfast. It was a quaint little spot, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee was heavenly. Sipping my latte, I planned my day, eager to dive into the artistic heart of Naoshima. The cafe's warm ambiance was the perfect start to what I hoped would be a day filled with inspiration and discovery.


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

Benesse House Museum: Where Art Meets Nature

My first major stop was the Benesse House Museum, a place where art and architecture blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The museum itself is a work of art, designed by Tadao Ando, whose work I've admired for years. The building is nestled into the hillside, with large windows offering stunning views of the sea. The collection is diverse, featuring works by artists from around the world, each piece carefully chosen to complement the space.


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

I wandered through the galleries, captivated by the interplay of light and shadow, the way the art seemed to breathe in its environment. From paintings to sculptures, each piece told a story, inviting contemplation and sparking my imagination. I even sketched a few of my favorite pieces in my notebook, trying to capture their essence on paper. It felt like a dream to finally see masterpieces in person that I had only read about in books back at the Leibniz University library.

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

One of the most memorable moments was stepping out onto the open-air sculpture terrace. The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Sculptures stood against the backdrop of the endless horizon, creating a surreal and breathtaking scene. I spent a long time there, simply soaking it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty.

The Iconic Yellow Pumpkin

No trip to Naoshima is complete without a visit to Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin. As I walked along the coastline, the vibrant yellow sphere came into view, a striking contrast to the blue sea and sky. This iconic sculpture has become synonymous with Naoshima, a symbol of the island's artistic spirit. I joined the queue of visitors waiting to take photos, eager to capture my own memory of this whimsical masterpiece.


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

It was fascinating to observe how people interacted with the pumpkin. Some posed for selfies, others simply gazed at it in awe, and some, like me, tried to capture its essence in a quick sketch. The pumpkin seemed to evoke a sense of joy and playfulness, reminding me of Astrid's boundless energy and her love for bright colors. I imagined how much she would have loved running around it, giggling with delight.

Delving Deep at the Chichu Art Museum

Next on my list was the Chichu Art Museum, another architectural marvel by Tadao Ando. This museum is unique in that it is almost entirely underground, designed to minimize its impact on the natural landscape. The entrance is unassuming, a simple opening in the hillside, but what lies beneath is truly extraordinary.


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

Inside, I discovered a series of interconnected spaces, each housing a single artwork. The most famous is Walter De Maria's *Time/Timeless/No Time*, a massive granite sphere in a minimalist concrete room. The sheer scale of the piece was overwhelming, and the play of light created an ethereal atmosphere. I sat in silence, contemplating the artwork, feeling a sense of awe and wonder.

Another highlight was Claude Monet's *Water Lilies* series. The paintings were displayed in a room designed specifically to showcase them, with natural light filtering in from above. The effect was magical, the colors shimmering and dancing on the canvas. It felt like stepping into Monet's garden, surrounded by the beauty of Giverny.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch and Dinner Delights

After immersing myself in art all afternoon, I was ready for a culinary break. I headed to Perma_Naoshima for lunch, a charming restaurant known for its local cuisine. I savored a delicious set meal featuring fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the island's rich culinary heritage.


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

As evening approached, I made my way to Naoshima Yokocho for dinner. This lively spot offered a variety of food stalls, each serving up different specialties. I opted for a bowl of steaming ramen, a comforting and satisfying end to a long day of exploration. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories.


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

Benesse House Shop: A Treasure Trove of Artful Souvenirs

Before calling it a day, I couldn't resist a quick visit to the Benesse House Shop. It was a treasure trove of art-related souvenirs, from postcards and prints to books and sculptures. I picked up a few items to remind me of my time on Naoshima, including a small print of one of Monet's *Water Lilies* for Astrid and a book on Tadao Ando's architecture for Maximilian.


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

Reflections on Day One

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the stars twinkled above me, casting a soft glow on the island. I reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore such a unique and inspiring place. Naoshima had exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow's itinerary includes the Lee Ufan Museum and the Art House Project, and I'm particularly excited about visiting the Minamidera. I am also planning to visit Bar SARU for a nightcap after dinner at Cin.na.mon.


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

I made sure to jot down some notes in my sketchbook, capturing the highlights of the day. I also made a mental note to buy sunscreen and a portable charger tomorrow, as I completely forgot about them while packing in Hannover. It was a rookie mistake, but one I wouldn't repeat. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of pumpkins, water lilies, and the endless possibilities that lay ahead on this artistic adventure.