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

Finding Peace in the Simple Things

Today was a day of embracing the quieter side of Naoshima, a welcome change of pace after the intense artistic immersion of the past few days. It’s funny, isn’t it? Sometimes the most profound travel experiences come not from grand monuments or famous museums, but from the simple, everyday moments that connect you to a place.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Perma_Naoshima (パーマ). I opted for their signature ramen, a comforting bowl of noodles in a rich, savory broth. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day’s adventures. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the delicious food, set a positive tone for the day. It reminded me a bit of the small, family-run restaurants back in Varaždin, where the warmth of the owners is as much a part of the meal as the food itself. I am really glad I chose to visit that ramen restaurant, it was a great way to start the day and fill me up for my fishing adventure.


Experience authentic ramen at Perma_Naoshima, where culinary tradition meets the artistic charm of Naoshima Island.

After breakfast, we headed to the Naoshima Fishing Park. Now, I’m no expert fisherman, but the idea of spending a relaxing morning by the sea, rod in hand, sounded incredibly appealing. The park itself is a tranquil retreat, blending natural beauty with the local fishing culture. You don’t need to be an experienced angler to enjoy it; it’s a place where anyone can unwind and connect with nature. The cost to rent a rod and bait was ¥850, which seemed reasonable for a chance to try my luck.


Experience fishing and tranquility at Naoshima Fishing Park, a scenic destination for nature lovers in Japan's beautiful Naoshima Island.

I have to admit, my fishing skills left something to be desired. I didn’t catch anything, but honestly, I didn’t mind. The simple act of casting the line, feeling the gentle sea breeze on my face, and watching the waves was therapeutic in itself. My friends, on the other hand, had a bit more luck, reeling in a couple of small fish. They were quite proud of their catches, and I was happy to play the role of photographer, capturing their triumphant moments. It was a far cry from my usual work in Heidelberg, designing software for renewable energy, but sometimes a break from the digital world is exactly what one needs.

Sometimes, the most meaningful travel experiences are found not in the grand sights, but in the quiet corners of everyday life.

For lunch, we decided to try Ishii Shouten, a local udon shop. It’s a no-frills kind of place, the kind where you know the food is going to be good because it’s made with heart. I ordered a bowl of their bukkake udon, thick, chewy noodles in a savory broth. It was simple, satisfying, and exactly what I needed after a morning in the sun. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It reminded me of the konoba back home in Croatia, where you can always find a hearty, home-cooked meal and friendly conversation.


Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.

After lunch, we ventured into the Honmura district to visit the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This space, once an agricultural cooperative supermarket, now serves as an information center for the Art House Project and a place to relax. Designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, it retains much of its original architecture, creating a unique blend of old and new. You can buy tickets for the Art House Project here, as well as browse books and merchandise related to the island’s art scene. But more than that, it’s a place to soak in the atmosphere of Honmura, a district known for its traditional Japanese houses and quiet charm. It was a great place to buy some souvenirs and learn more about the Art House project.


Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

I found myself particularly drawn to the Art House Project itself. The idea of transforming abandoned houses into works of art, weaving in the history and memories of the buildings, is incredibly powerful. It speaks to the potential for renewal and reinvention, something that resonates deeply with me, given my own journey from Croatia to Germany and my work in the ever-evolving field of technology. The Art House project is an adventurous attempt to revive the area by combining contemporary art with abandoned houses. Artists stayed in Naoshima to create their works by learning about the history of the houses and the people who used to live there.

Before dinner, I popped into Mikazukishoten, a charming coffee stand that also sells local souvenirs. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee was irresistible, and I ended up buying a bag of their original blend to take back to Greta in Heidelberg. She appreciates a good cup of coffee as much as I do, and I knew she’d love this taste of Naoshima. I also picked up a few small gifts for Marko, a handmade pottery figure that I think he’ll enjoy. The owner carefully chooses the best coffee beans in terms of the Japanese climate and the weather that day so that the coffee will be the best.


Discover the perfect blend of exquisite coffee and unique souvenirs at Mikazukishoten in Naoshima, a true gem for art and coffee lovers alike.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Nagomi, a restaurant located within the Naoshima welfare center. This unique setting creates a welcoming atmosphere where locals and tourists can enjoy hearty Japanese meals together. I opted for one of their set meals, featuring fresh, local ingredients prepared in traditional styles. It was simple, delicious, and incredibly affordable. It felt good to support a local establishment that’s so deeply rooted in the community. With its cozy interiors and friendly staff, Nagomi ensures that every meal feels like a gathering among friends.


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

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today wasn’t about ticking off famous landmarks or seeing the most cutting-edge art. It was about slowing down, connecting with the local culture, and finding beauty in the everyday. The communal canteen-like environment encourages social interactions and makes it easy for travelers to connect with locals over shared tables.

Tomorrow, we’re off to Teshima Island, home to the Teshima Art Museum and Teshima 8 Million Lab. I’m excited to see what artistic wonders await us there. We will have breakfast in APRON CAFE, lunch in EAT LOCAL 直島食堂, and dinner in Luke's Table. But for tonight, I’m happy to savor the memories of a day well spent, a day of simple pleasures on Naoshima Island. And maybe even try to improve my fishing skills before our next seaside adventure!