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

A Day of Artistic Immersion

Today was another incredible day on Naoshima, where the fusion of art and nature continues to inspire. I set out with my friends, eager to explore more of what this unique island has to offer. From thought-provoking galleries to intriguing culinary experiences, the day was filled with delightful discoveries.

We started our morning with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This charming café, near Minamidera, felt like stepping into someone's home. The friendly owner greeted us warmly, and we enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast with homemade vegetables. It's these kinds of authentic experiences that really make a trip memorable. I even tried a bit of my rusty Japanese, and the owner was so patient and encouraging, it felt like a genuine connection.


Discover Café Ippo in Naoshima: A delightful fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and warm hospitality awaits you in this charming café.
After breakfast, we headed to the Seaside Gallery. Designed by Tadao Ando, the gallery itself is a work of art, seamlessly blending with the coastal landscape. The long, narrow layout of the gallery, with its large east-facing opening, allowed an abundance of light to flood through, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The exhibits featured contemporary works that played with the themes of sea and wind, perfectly capturing the essence of the region. Walter De Maria's 'Seen/Unseen Known/Unknown' was particularly striking, its forms shifting with the changing light.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

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

Next on our itinerary was Shinro Otake's Shipyard Works. This installation was a fascinating blend of art and industrial history. Otake repurposed elements of the shipyard, transforming them into thought-provoking sculptures. The rusted metal and fragmented forms spoke to Naoshima's past as a shipbuilding center, creating a powerful dialogue between memory and transformation. It was amazing to see how Otake turned discarded materials into something poetic, anchoring contemporary art in the island's history. The location of the Shipyard Works, set against the backdrop of the sea and sky, made it a perfect spot for photography.


Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.
For lunch, we stopped at Tee's DELI GROCERY. This cozy diner had a laid-back vibe, with cool tunes playing in the background. The menu offered a variety of options, from hearty sandwiches to flavorful local specialties. I opted for the falafel sandwich, which was absolutely delicious. It was a great place to relax and recharge after a morning of art exploration. Greta would have loved this place as she is a vegetarian and they offer many options that she would enjoy.


Discover the flavors of Naoshima at Tee's DELI GROCERY, where great food meets artistic vibes in an unforgettable dining experience.
After lunch, we made a quick stop at the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop. It's the only convenience store on the island, and it was surprisingly useful for stocking up on snacks and drinks. It's always good to have a few essentials on hand, especially when you're spending the day exploring. Plus, it was a chance to see how even everyday places are integrated into the unique atmosphere of Naoshima.


Discover convenience and comfort at 7-Eleven Naoshima, your go-to spot for snacks, essentials, and an ATM on the beautiful Naoshima Island.
As evening approached, we headed to Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. This family-run restaurant is known for its delicious okonomiyaki, a Japanese savory pancake. The English menu with pictures made it easy to choose from the wide variety of options. We tried the Umikko Special, which was packed with a mix of ingredients and bursting with flavor. The friendly owners made us feel right at home, and it was a perfect way to end the day. I am sure Marko would have loved this spot as he loves pancakes!


Savor authentic okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Umikko on Naoshima Island—where every bite celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.
Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by how Naoshima seamlessly blends art, nature, and history. The island's commitment to art is evident in every corner, from the world-class galleries to the repurposed industrial spaces. It's a place that encourages you to slow down, to contemplate, and to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. I am so glad I decided to take this trip, it has been amazing to see all of this art and experience a new culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Yokobou Park and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. I am looking forward to more exploration and cultural immersion on this incredible island. Maybe I'll even find a Japanese phrasebook, something I realized I should have packed after my attempts at Café Ippo. I am also looking forward to having a cup of tea tomorrow and relaxing, it will be a nice way to end the trip, and have a little bit of peace before going back to Germany.

This trip has been a reminder of the importance of art and culture in our lives. It's not just about seeing beautiful things; it's about engaging with new ideas, connecting with different perspectives, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. As I continue my journey, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems I'll discover and what new insights I'll gain. I am also excited to see what else Japan has to offer, and I hope to come back soon with my family so that I can share the experience with them. The people here are so nice and respectful, I feel like I am at home.

The blend of modern art and traditional Japanese culture is truly unique and something I will never forget. Naoshima has a special way of making you feel like you're part of something bigger, a community of art lovers and creative thinkers. It's an experience that resonates long after you leave, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have immersed myself in its beauty and charm. As I prepare for the final days of my trip, I'm filled with a sense of anticipation for what's to come, but also a touch of sadness that this incredible adventure is coming to an end. I will definitely be recommending this trip to all of my friends and family, and I hope that they will be able to experience the magic of Naoshima for themselves. I am so glad that I decided to come here, it has been a truly unforgettable experience.