Artistic Adventure in Naoshima: A Journey to Japan's Art Island

A Day Immersed in Art and Flavors

Today was a beautiful blend of art appreciation and culinary exploration here on Naoshima Island. It's amazing how this small island manages to pack such a powerful punch when it comes to creativity and gastronomy. The crisp September air added an extra layer of enjoyment to our adventures, making every moment feel even more special.

Our day started with a caffeine fix at SPARKY's Coffee, followed by a visit to the iconic Red Pumpkin and the serene Benesse House Park. We indulged in a delightful lunch at Aisunao and capped off the evening with a delicious dinner at Yayoda, before enjoying a nightcap at Naoshima Yokocho. It was a day of contrasts, from the quirky and modern art installations to the traditional and comforting Japanese cuisine. I'm excited to share all the details with you!

Greeting the Red Pumpkin

Our first stop this morning was the iconic Red Pumpkin. As the ferry approached Miyanoura Port, the vibrant red shape immediately caught my eye. Covered in bold, black polka dots, the sculpture was hard to miss and immediately signaled that we had arrived on the 'Art Island'. Greta would have loved this, she always appreciates a good polka dot! The Red Pumpkin is strategically placed to be the first thing visitors see, welcoming everyone to Naoshima. It’s more than just a landmark; it's an invitation to a world where art seamlessly blends with nature and everyday life.


Explore the vibrant Red Pumpkin in Naoshima, a masterpiece of contemporary art by Yayoi Kusama, set against stunning coastal views.

The Red Pumpkin is one of Yayoi Kusama's most recognizable works. Kusama is known for her use of repetition and vibrant colors, and her pumpkins are a recurring motif in her art. She once said that pumpkins speak to her and embody a sense of stability and peace of mind. Knowing this adds another layer of depth to the piece. I even ventured inside the pumpkin, peering out through the polka-dot-shaped holes. It offered a whimsical and slightly distorted view of the surrounding scenery, framing the world through Kusama's unique perspective.

Art doesn't need to be locked away in galleries to be profound; it can sit by the sea, fade in the rain, glow in the sunset, and still move us.

Exploring Benesse House Park

After the Red Pumpkin, we made our way to Benesse House Park. The park is an extension of the Benesse House Museum, a hotel and museum complex designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The vision behind Benesse House is to create a space where nature, art, and architecture coexist harmoniously. As we wandered through the park, we discovered numerous outdoor sculptures and installations, each thoughtfully placed to interact with the surrounding landscape.


Discover the serene beauty and artistic spirit of Naoshima at Benesse House Park, a luxurious retreat blending nature, art, and hospitality.

The setting of the park is stunning. Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, the green, grassy parks provide a perfect backdrop for the art. The sea breeze was refreshing, and the September sun added a warm glow to the sculptures. I could see why this place is so inspiring for artists and visitors alike. It’s a space that encourages contemplation and a deeper connection with the environment. I made a mental note to bring Greta and Marko back here; they would both love exploring this tranquil, creative space.

Coffee and Halloween Vibes at SPARKY's Coffee

Before diving into the art, we needed our morning caffeine fix, so we headed to SPARKY's Coffee. This quirky coffee house is located near the Miyanoura Port and has a unique, slightly dark, retro vibe. As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted by Halloween decorations and various villain-themed artwork. It was definitely a unique atmosphere for a morning coffee!


Discover the perfect blend of art and coffee at Sparky's Coffee, your tranquil retreat on Naoshima Island.

I ordered a breakfast set that included coffee, toast, and a creamy chowder soup. The coffee was decent, and the food was fantastic and full of flavor. What struck me most was the relaxed and laid-back vibe of the place. It felt like a spot where locals and tourists alike could come to unwind and enjoy a good cup of coffee. The staff was kind and attentive, making us feel welcome. It was the perfect way to start our day before immersing ourselves in the art scene.

A Vegetarian Lunch at Aisunao

For lunch, we decided to try Aisunao, a restaurant known for its healthy and predominantly vegetarian options. Located near the Art House Project in Honmura, this charming eatery offers a tranquil experience with diners sitting on raised tatami mats overlooking a traditional Japanese guesthouse garden. The setting alone was worth the visit! Aisunao is a must for vegans coming to Naoshima. From my understanding, everything is vegan on the menu now. We had the lunch sets and delicious desserts and coffee. The interior is very cute.


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

I opted for one of the lunch sets, which included brown rice, miso soup, and a variety of small vegetable dishes. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. I especially enjoyed the miso soup, which had a rich and savory taste. The restaurant had a peaceful atmosphere, and I felt completely relaxed as I savored each bite. I can see why this place is so popular among those looking for a healthy and delicious meal in a serene setting. The staff was friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience.

Evening Delights at Yayoda

As evening approached, we were ready for a hearty dinner, and Yayoda came highly recommended. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that reflected traditional Japanese aesthetics.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

Yayoda's menu showcases an array of delectable dishes that highlight the rich flavors of the sea. We started with sashimi made with freshly caught fish, followed by expertly grilled seafood skewers. Each dish was prepared with precision and care, and the chefs at Yayoda take pride in using seasonal ingredients. It was a true gastronomic adventure, and I appreciated the opportunity to taste the local flavors of Naoshima. The restaurant operates on limited hours, primarily serving dinner on select days of the week. Whether you're seated at a traditional tatami mat or at a cozy table by the window overlooking the tranquil surroundings, Yayoda promises an unforgettable meal that captures the heart and soul of Japanese cuisine.

A Nightcap at Naoshima Yokocho

To cap off our day, we decided to check out Naoshima Yokocho, a local bar offering a casual atmosphere and a selection of drinks. It's one of the few places open late on the island, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The izakaya is spacious, so they can accommodate large groups.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Naoshima Yokocho, an izakaya that captures the essence of Naoshima's culinary culture amidst stunning art and nature.

I ordered a local beer and chatted with some of the other patrons. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring and to get a sense of the island's nightlife. Naoshima Yokocho also offers a few labeled vegan items such as tofu & vegetable dishes, onion rings, fries, and a main. The place has a nice vibe and a few vegetarian options. Keep in mind that although items are listed as vegan, you must say you are vegan to avoid bonito flakes. While it wasn't the most sophisticated bar I've ever been to, it had a certain charm and authenticity that made it a memorable experience.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit the Naoshima Fishing Park and the Honmura Lounge & Archive. I am also planning to have breakfast at Perma_Naoshima, lunch at Ishii Shouten, and dinner at Nagomi. I might also check out Mikazukishoten.

It's been an incredible journey so far, and I can't wait to see what the rest of my time on Naoshima Island holds!