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

Teshima's Embrace

Today, the eighth day of our artistic journey through the Seto Inland Sea, was dedicated to Teshima Island, a gem often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Naoshima. Yet, Teshima, with its serene landscapes and thought-provoking art, proved to be an unforgettable experience. I was particularly excited to explore how art could blend so seamlessly with nature, a theme that resonates deeply with my interests in sustainable living and renewable energy.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. Fortunately, we managed to visit APRON CAFE, even though I read that it is currently operating irregularly due to the pandemic. The cafe was located in a renovated traditional house. The chef is a certified nutritionist and uses local Setouchi ingredients to create seasonal menus. I opted for one of their famous ‘HAPPY SCONES’ with a strong coffee, while my friends enjoyed a set breakfast with local vegetables and fruits. The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff made it a perfect start to our day. It reminded me a bit of my childhood in Varaždin, where the local bakeries always had that comforting aroma of freshly baked goods.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.
Fueled and ready, we hopped on the bus towards the Teshima Art Museum. The ride itself was a treat, offering glimpses of the island’s terraced rice fields and the sparkling Seto Inland Sea. The Teshima Art Museum is a collaboration between artist Rei Naito and architect Ryue Nishizawa. The building resembles a water droplet.

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

As we approached the museum, the unique architecture became more and more striking. The museum is designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. The path leading to the entrance meandered through bamboo groves, offering glimpses of the coastline. It was a thoughtful way to prepare visitors for the contemplative experience that awaited us inside. Removing our shoes at the entrance, we stepped into a world where art and nature converged. The interior space was dominated by “Matrix,” a minimalist installation by Rei Naito. Water droplets emerged from the ground, creating tiny rivulets that flowed across the concrete floor. The roof had two oval openings allowing natural light, wind, and even rain to enter the space. The subtle changes in light and the gentle sound of water created a meditative atmosphere. I found myself completely absorbed, losing track of time as I observed the interplay of elements. The experience was a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of life, something I often contemplate in my work with renewable energy solutions.


Discover the Teshima Art Museum, where contemporary art transcends into nature, creating an inspiring and tranquil experience on Teshima Island.
After spending a good amount of time at the Teshima Art Museum, we decided to explore the Teshima 8 Million Lab. This facility, conceived by artist Sputniko!, explores the Shinto concept of “Yaoyorozu,” the myriad of gods believed to reside in almost everything. The lab aims to create new members of Yaoyorozu, blending science and art to form a unique mythology. As we approached the lab, we were greeted by torii gates and a place to hang ema, votive tablets. The architecture was fascinating, with a traditional dwelling transformed into a vibrant arts complex. Inside, the exhibits prompted us to consider alternative perspectives on our future and the relationship between humanity and technology. It was a stimulating experience that sparked many conversations among us.


Discover the unique Teshima 8 Million Lab, where contemporary art meets the serene beauty of Teshima Island in Japan's Kagawa Prefecture.
For lunch, we headed to EAT LOCAL 直島食堂, a restaurant located within the Tsutsujiso complex. This cozy eatery focuses on using local ingredients to create delicious and authentic dishes. I opted for the shirasu bowl, featuring fresh whitebait from the Seto Inland Sea. The dish was simple yet exquisite, highlighting the natural sweetness of the shirasu. My friends tried the fried chicken set meal and the sashimi rice bowl, both of which were equally satisfying. The restaurant’s warm wooden design and tranquil setting provided a perfect respite after our morning explorations.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
In the late afternoon, we sought refreshment at Guest Room Aoitori. It was a cozy spot, perfect for unwinding after a day filled with art and exploration. We enjoyed some local craft beers while sharing our thoughts on the day’s experiences. The bar had a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, and we found ourselves chatting with some of the locals, learning more about the island’s history and culture. As the sun began to set, we made our way to Luke's Table for dinner. The restaurant overlooks the Seto Inland Sea, offering stunning views. Luke's Table focuses on Setouchi slow food, using local ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking methods with French-inspired recipes. I decided to try the Setouchi paella, which was a delightful combination of fresh seafood, local pork, Okayama chicken, and seasonal vegetables. The flavors were rich and complex, and the presentation was beautiful. My friends chose the slow-cooked set course meal, which featured a variety of local delicacies. The meal was a perfect ending to a day of artistic and culinary exploration.


Discover the serene beauty of Naoshima at Guest Room Aoitori, your cozy budget-friendly inn amidst stunning art and nature.

Discover Luke's Table: A culinary haven on Naoshima offering exquisite Italian dishes and delightful breakfast options in an artistic paradise.
As we sipped our drinks, reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Teshima’s unique blend of art, nature, and culture. Teshima had a lot of restaurants serving seafood and local food. The island had a peaceful atmosphere. It reminded me of the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.

Tomorrow, we’re heading back to Naoshima to explore the Seaside Gallery and Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake. I’m eager to see how these contemporary art installations interact with the coastal landscape. We’ll also be trying out Café Ippo for breakfast, Tee's DELI GROCERY for lunch, and Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. And, of course, a stop at the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop is a must for any late-night cravings!

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I took a moment to jot down my thoughts, feeling grateful for the experiences of the day. I also realized I forgot to pack my Japanese phrasebook, which would have been useful for chatting with the locals, and an extra memory card for my camera, as I nearly ran out of space capturing the beauty of Teshima. Overall, it was a day filled with art, nature, and cultural immersion. Teshima Island had captured my heart, and I knew I would carry its lessons with me long after I left its shores.


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