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

A Day of Discovery Beyond the Museums

Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and delightful surprises here on Naoshima. It’s amazing how much this island continues to offer beyond its famous museums. After ten days here, you might think we'd seen it all, but Naoshima keeps revealing new layers of charm and creativity. Today was a perfect example of that, as my friends and I ventured out to explore some of the island's lesser-known attractions and local flavors.

The day began, as many do here, with a hearty breakfast. We headed to Chikurin, an izakaya known for its traditional Japanese fare. It's a cozy spot, and this morning it was bustling with locals and a few tourists like us. I opted for a simple but satisfying breakfast set – grilled fish, rice, miso soup, and some pickled vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Greta always reminds me to appreciate these simple meals, as they are the cornerstone of Japanese cuisine. I have to admit, sometimes I miss a good old Croatian burek, but these breakfasts are growing on me.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Chikurin in Naoshima, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy izakaya setting.

With our stomachs full, we decided to start our artistic journey at the port of Uno, to see Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno. This quirky art installation is made entirely from marine debris. It’s incredible to see how trash can be transformed into something so visually stunning and thought-provoking. The sculptures, especially the two large sea breams, one of which doubles as a slide, are a testament to the artist's creativity and a stark reminder of the importance of ocean conservation. Marko would have loved that slide! It's a fun and engaging way to raise awareness about environmental issues. We spent a good hour exploring the details of the sculptures and taking photos. I even climbed up the slide, feeling like a kid again.


Explore the artistic brilliance of Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, where recycled materials transform into stunning sculptures celebrating marine beauty.

Art isn't just about what you see in a museum; it's about how creativity can breathe new life into the everyday and transform the mundane into something extraordinary.

Next on our list was the Walking Ark, nestled in the town of Ogicho. This open-air museum is a hidden gem, showcasing an array of sculptures and artistic exhibits harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape. As we strolled through the curated paths, we were surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, creating a serene and inspirational environment. The sculptures, often reflecting themes of community, nature, and culture, sparked many conversations among us. It's a place where art and nature intertwine, offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots. It reminded me a bit of some of the sculpture gardens back in Croatia, where art is seamlessly integrated into the landscape.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

After immersing ourselves in art, it was time for lunch. We decided to try the Terrace Restaurant at Benesse House. Although dining outside wasn't an option, the floor-to-ceiling windows provided stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. It felt like we were dining in nature. The restaurant specializes in French cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. I opted for the degustation menu, which started with an amuse-bouche of foie gras with mango and orange mousse. The sweetness of the mousse perfectly complemented the rich pate. For the main course, I had the Setouchi sea bream, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The presentation was exquisite, almost too beautiful to eat. Almost! Greta enjoyed a vegetarian option with fresh tofu and almond. The meal was a culinary journey that awakened special memories, like a blend of Sydney harbor's elegance with a national park's otherworldliness.


Experience fine dining at Terrace Restaurant in Naoshima—where art meets exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

With our appetites satisfied, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Shimacoya. This charming book café, renovated from a 130-year-old private house, is a haven for book lovers and those seeking a retro Japanese atmosphere. The café sells books on DIY, nature, travel, culture, design, and architecture, all selected by the staff. I picked up a book on modern Japanese architecture, hoping to get some inspiration for our home in Heidelberg. The jumbo puddings and cream sodas on the menu evoked a sense of nostalgia. I couldn't resist trying the cream soda, which was a delightful blast from the past. Shimacoya is more than just a shop; it's a place to relax, read, and soak in the island's artistic vibe. They even offer tent stays for a truly immersive experience.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

As evening approached, we made our way to Nagomi for dinner. This ocean-view restaurant, located within the Naoshima welfare center, offers a taste of the local community. It's a casual dining spot where locals and tourists can enjoy hearty Japanese meals at reasonable prices. I went for the pork cutlet set meal, which came with rice, miso soup, and pickles. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect after a long day of exploring. The communal canteen-like environment encouraged us to interact with locals, making us feel like part of the community. The friendly staff recommended some seasonal dishes, giving us an authentic taste of Kagawa's culinary heritage.


Discover Nagomi in Naoshima - where authentic Japanese dining meets community spirit in a cozy setting.

Reflecting on the day, I’m struck by how Naoshima seamlessly blends art with everyday life. The Chinu installation reminds us of the beauty that can be found in discarded materials, while the Walking Ark invites us to contemplate our relationship with nature and community. The Terrace Restaurant offered a culinary masterpiece, and Shimacoya provided a cozy retreat for book lovers. Finally, Nagomi gave us a taste of local life and community spirit.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore *La forêt des murmures* and *Perma_Naoshima*, continuing our exploration of Naoshima's unique art scene. And of course, we'll be trying out SPARKY's Coffee for breakfast, Raumen Tsumu for lunch, and Yuunagi for dinner. It’s hard to believe we only have a few days left on this incredible island. I’m already looking forward to the new discoveries that await us.

It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to discover hidden gems, connect with local culture, and experience the unexpected. Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.