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

A Day of Subterranean Wonders & Cultural Immersion

Today, Naoshima unveiled more of its enchanting secrets. It was a day of deep dives, both literally and figuratively, into art that challenges perception and celebrates the harmony between nature and human creativity. I’m always seeking experiences that blend seamlessly with the environment, and today was a testament to the profound impact art can have when it respects and enhances its surroundings.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This charming café, near the Art House Project, felt like stepping into someone's home. The couple running it were incredibly welcoming, and the traditional Japanese breakfast set us up perfectly for a day of exploration. It’s these small, local experiences that truly enrich a trip, offering a glimpse into the heart of the community. I even tried some homemade desserts. It was the perfect way to start the day.


Discover Café Ippo in Naoshima: A delightful fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and warm hospitality awaits you in this charming café.

Next on the agenda was the Chichu Art Museum. Designed by Tadao Ando, the museum is an architectural marvel, mostly built underground to minimize its impact on the landscape. The museum itself is a work of art. As someone passionate about renewable energy, I was particularly impressed by how the museum uses natural light to illuminate the exhibits, creating an ever-changing viewing experience. Greta would have loved this place.


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

The Chichu Art Museum houses a small collection of artworks, each given its own unique space. Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” are displayed in a serene room, where natural light filters through the ceiling, evoking a sense of tranquility and contemplation. The way the light transformed the paintings throughout our visit was mesmerizing.

Art doesn't transform. It just plain forms.

James Turrell’s installations were equally captivating. His works play with light and space, challenging our perception and creating a sense of wonder. “Afrum, Pale Blue” was particularly striking, a glowing cube that seemed to shift and change as we moved around it. It’s these kinds of experiences that remind me why I love art – its ability to make us question what we see and feel. The last exhibit was Walter De Maria’s “Time/Timeless/No Time”. This installation features a large sphere surrounded by geometric forms, all bathed in natural light. The play of light and shadow created a sense of timelessness, inviting reflection on the nature of existence.

After immersing ourselves in the Chichu Art Museum's subterranean world, we took the free shuttle bus to Honmura, where the Art House Project awaited. This project breathes new life into abandoned houses, temples, and workshops, transforming them into unique art spaces. It’s a brilliant concept that celebrates both art and community.

Our first stop was Minamidera, a collaboration between architect Tadao Ando and artist James Turrell. This installation is a masterclass in manipulating light and darkness. We entered a pitch-black room and were guided to a bench. As our eyes gradually adjusted, a faint light emerged, revealing a hidden space. The experience was disorienting yet profound, a reminder of how much we rely on sight and how much we miss in the darkness. I made sure to book this in advance, as it is not included in the multi-site ticket for the art project on Naoshima Island. I found the darkness disorienting, but there was also a magical atmosphere.


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

For lunch, we headed to Issen, a restaurant at Benesse House Museum. I was hoping to have the traditional kaiseki-style bento, but it was only available to guests of Benesse House. Instead, I opted for a delicious teishoku lunch, enjoying the views of the Inland Sea and modern art. The restaurant's elegant setting added to the experience.


Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine at Issen on Naoshima Island—where art meets culinary excellence in every bite.

With the afternoon sun casting long shadows, we explored more of the Art House Project. Each house had its own unique character and story, blending seamlessly into the traditional neighborhood. It’s a testament to the power of art to transform not just spaces, but entire communities.

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Bar SARU. This cozy bar offered a welcome respite after a day of walking and contemplation. I enjoyed a local beer, reflecting on the day’s experiences and the beauty of Naoshima. I always like to wind down with a drink after a long day of travel.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Lee Ufan Museum and explore more of the Art House Project, including Kadoya. I’m particularly excited to see Lee Ufan’s minimalist sculptures and how they interact with Ando’s architecture. We’ll also grab breakfast at Terrace Restaurant. I’m looking forward to another day of artistic discovery on this enchanting island.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire. It’s a place where art, nature, and community come together in perfect harmony. I am also reminded of my childhood in Croatia, where art was not confined to museums but was an integral part of everyday life. This island embodies that spirit, offering a reminder of the power of creativity to transform the world around us. And who knows, maybe Marko will also become an artist one day.