Family Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Day of Discovery in Honmura

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the charm of Honmura, a quaint village on Naoshima Island that hums with artistic energy and whispers stories of the past. It's amazing how much character and creativity can be packed into one small corner of this island. Olivia, Thando, and I were excited to delve deeper, and Honmura certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This place is a gem! Tucked away near Minamidera, it felt like stepping into someone's cozy home. The vegan fare was delicious and just what we needed to fuel our explorations. Thando especially loved the apple slices they gave us. It was a bit of a bummer that we arrived too late for the full breakfast menu, but the cake and coffee were a delightful start to the day.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This place is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to explore the Art House Project. Housed in a former agricultural cooperative supermarket, the lounge itself is a work of art, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa. We purchased our tickets for the Art House Project here, and I picked up a few books about the artists and architects involved. The staff was incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and information about the various art houses. It’s amazing how the Art House Project has breathed new life into abandoned homes, turning them into unique spaces for artistic expression.


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

Art isn't just something you look at; it's something that changes how you see the world.

With our tickets in hand, we set off to explore the Art House Project. Each house was a unique experience, blending art with the history and memories of the buildings. The contrast between the contemporary art installations and the traditional Japanese neighborhood was striking. I was particularly impressed with how the artists incorporated the existing architecture and surroundings into their work. Olivia loved Haisha, the former dentist's home and office transformed into a gallery for large sculptures. Thando was fascinated by the replica of the Statue of Liberty inside.

After immersing ourselves in the Art House Project, we decided to grab lunch at NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda. This charming eatery is known for its delectable fish set meals, featuring the freshest catches of the day. The menu changes daily, offering options like sashimi, grilled fish, and boiled fish sets. I opted for the grilled whole red snapper in vinaigrette, while Olivia chose the sashimi set. Thando, of course, went for the simplest option of rice and miso soup. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It's a must-visit for any seafood lover.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at NaoPAM in Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

With our bellies full, we ventured towards the southern end of the island to see the Walking Ark. This sculpture by Keisuke Yamaguchi is inspired by Noah's Ark and appears like a mountain range with legs. It was created as a reminder of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, envisioning the work walking off towards Fukushima Prefecture. From certain angles, the piece blends seamlessly with the mountain ranges of Shikoku in the distance. Thando was particularly intrigued by this piece, asking lots of questions about the earthquake and the story behind the sculpture. It sparked a meaningful conversation about resilience and hope.


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

Before dinner, we popped into Shimacoya, a unique shop that combines a café, bookstore, and guesthouse. It’s known as a budget-friendly option for young travelers, offering tent stays in a shared room. While we weren't staying there, we enjoyed browsing the books and local crafts. I picked up a small, hand-painted Naoshima souvenir for my office back in Kelowna.


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

For dinner, we decided on Restaurant EN. This cozy spot is known for its traditional and welcoming atmosphere. The food was fantastic, and the octopus calamari was a standout. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art and exploration. We made sure to make a reservation, as many restaurants on Naoshima require it.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at this charming restaurant in Naoshima, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As we headed back to My Lodge Naoshima, I reflected on the day's experiences. Honmura is more than just a village; it's a living, breathing work of art. The way the art blends with the everyday lives of the residents is truly inspiring. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima and George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal. I’m also hoping to find some time to relax at Little Plum, a local bar. I'm excited to see what other treasures Naoshima has in store for us.


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

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. It's a place where art, nature, and community come together in perfect harmony. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore more of the island, including the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima and George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal. I’m also hoping to find some time to relax at Little Plum, a local bar. I'm excited to see what other treasures Naoshima has in store for us.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. It's a place where art, nature, and community come together in perfect harmony. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.