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

A Day of Artistic Immersion

The journey to Naoshima was quite the adventure, involving a flight from Frankfurt to Tokyo, a domestic flight to Takamatsu, and finally a ferry to this art island. Today marked the beginning of our exploration, and I couldn't wait to dive into the art and culture that Naoshima is famous for. It’s always a bit surreal to arrive in a place you’ve only dreamed about, and I was eager to see if Naoshima would live up to the hype.

The air was thick with anticipation as we disembarked the ferry. The island welcomed us with open arms, and I could already feel the artistic energy permeating the atmosphere. My friends and I, fueled by excitement and a shared love for art, embarked on our first day of discovery. I was particularly excited to experience the blend of art, architecture, and nature that Naoshima promises, and I knew this trip would be something special.

Our first stop was the Ando Museum. Nestled in the Honmura district, the museum is dedicated to the work and philosophy of Tadao Ando, one of Japan's most iconic architects. From the outside, it looks like a traditional Japanese house, blending seamlessly with the neighborhood. However, stepping inside is like entering another world. The interior combines traditional design with Ando's signature use of concrete, creating an intriguing and thought-provoking space.


Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

I was immediately struck by the contrast between the exterior and interior. The traditional wooden facade gave way to a minimalist concrete space, a testament to Ando's ability to blend the old with the new. The museum showcases Ando's architectural projects and his relationship with Naoshima through photographs, models, and sketches. It’s a great introduction to his work before exploring his other creations on the island.

Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness.

After immersing ourselves in Ando's world, we headed to the Benesse House Museum. Designed by Ando as well, this museum also functions as a hotel, perfectly embodying the concept of living within art. The museum is built on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, with large openings that bring the natural surroundings inside. The integration of nature, art, and architecture is seamless, creating a unique and inspiring experience.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

The Benesse House Museum features works by artists from around the world, inspired by Naoshima's natural environment and architecture. As we wandered through the galleries, we encountered pieces by Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Jasper Johns, and Shinro Ohtake. The art installations extend beyond the museum walls, dotting the shoreline and forest, blending architecture with nature.

One of the most memorable aspects of the Benesse House Museum is its location. Perched on a hill facing the Seto Inland Sea, the building integrates seamlessly into the landscape. The clean concrete lines and minimalist glass elements create a serene and open atmosphere. The soft natural light filtering through the windows adds to the experience, making it feel as though the architecture itself is a piece of art. Staying at My Lodge Naoshima, which offers budget-friendly accommodations, made it easy for us to access these artistic treasures.


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

After a day of exploring art, it was time to indulge in some of Naoshima's culinary offerings. For breakfast, we visited APRON CAFE, known for its delicious and healthy meals made with local ingredients. The cafe has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the island's artistic vibe. I tried the Naoshima sea salted butter and sweet summer orange jam with their cranberry and coconut scones, and it was the perfect way to start the day.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

For lunch, we opted for Chikurin, an izakaya that captures the essence of Japanese dining culture. The menu features a variety of small plates perfect for sharing, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. We enjoyed savory grilled skewers and delectable sashimi, paired with local sake. The warm ambiance and rustic wooden decor made it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to New Olympia for dinner. This sushi restaurant is a hidden gem, renowned for its meticulously prepared dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with elegant decor reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics. I savored a variety of sushi options, from classic nigiri to innovative rolls, all expertly crafted. The fresh seafood and tranquil setting provided a perfect end to our first day. I especially enjoyed the views overlooking the serene waters surrounding Naoshima.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

Before heading back to our lodge, we stopped by the Benesse House Shop. This charming store offers a range of unique products, from handmade crafts to limited edition art pieces inspired by the island's landscape. I picked up a few souvenirs to remind me of this incredible experience, including some postcards featuring Ando's architecture.


Explore the artistic offerings of Benesse House Shop in Naoshima, a unique souvenir store celebrating local art and craftsmanship with exclusive pieces.

One thing I forgot to pack was a Japanese phrasebook, which would have been helpful in communicating with locals. I also realized I needed an extra memory card for my camera, as I took so many photos throughout the day. Note to self: always be prepared!

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by how seamlessly art is integrated into everyday life on Naoshima. It's not just confined to museums; it's present in the architecture, the landscape, and even the local cuisine. The island's commitment to art and culture is truly inspiring, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Chichu Art Museum and the Art House Project: Minamidera. I’ve heard incredible things about the Chichu Art Museum, particularly how it uses natural light to illuminate the artworks. The Art House Project also sounds fascinating, transforming abandoned buildings into unique art spaces. We'll also be trying out Café Ippo for breakfast, Issen for lunch and Restaurant EN for dinner, and plan to visit Bar SARU for a nightcap. I'm excited to see more of what Naoshima has to offer, and I'm sure tomorrow will be just as enriching as today.

As I write this, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Naoshima's unique blend of art, architecture, and nature. It's a place that challenges you to see the world in a new way, and I'm excited to continue exploring its hidden gems. I am also excited to share my experiences with Greta, Marko and the rest of my family back in Heidelberg, as I think they would be very interested in the blend of traditional and modern architecture here. I'm sure Marko would love running around the outdoor art installations.