Exploring Naoshima: A Family Art Adventure

Last Day Musings on Naoshima

As our Naoshima adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the serene beauty and unique artistic experiences that have defined our stay. It’s amazing how a small island can offer such a rich tapestry of culture, history, and contemporary art. Today was all about soaking in those last moments and discovering a few hidden gems before we pack our bags and head back to the mainland.

We started our day with breakfast at Yayoda, a local spot known for its fresh seafood. Olivia and Ethan were keen to try their Japanese-style breakfast sets. I opted for a simple grilled fish with rice and miso soup. There's something incredibly satisfying about starting the day with such a wholesome meal, especially knowing the fish was likely caught just offshore. The light broth made from barnacles was surprisingly good. It was a hearty meal that fueled us for our final day of exploration. I even managed a quick sake flight, much to Olivia's amusement.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

Our first stop was Kasaneiwa, a set of precariously balanced rocks that seem to defy gravity. The climb up the long stairway and narrow mountain road was a bit of a challenge, but the panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea were well worth the effort. It's amazing how nature can create such intriguing formations. Ethan, of course, was fascinated and immediately started snapping photos for his Instagram. Olivia just took in the view, commenting on the peacefulness of the sea. I couldn't help but think about the stories these rocks could tell if they could talk.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Kasaneiwa, a captivating landmark in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

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

Next, we ventured to the Honmura district to visit the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This place is more than just an information center; it's a hub for art and community. Housed in a renovated agricultural cooperative supermarket, the lounge is designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa and retains much of its original structure. We picked up some last-minute souvenirs and tickets for the Art House Project, which we explored earlier in the week. The staff was incredibly helpful, offering insights into the various art houses and the artists behind them. Ethan particularly enjoyed browsing the collection of art books, while Olivia found some unique handmade items to take home. I grabbed a coffee and sat for a few minutes, just soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant space.


Experience the fusion of art and culture at Honmura Lounge & Archive, your gateway to Naoshima's vibrant creative scene and unique local souvenirs.

For lunch, we decided on Shimacoya, a charming café known for its blend of art, literature, and local crafts. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with books lining the walls and art pieces scattered throughout the space. Olivia ordered a salad made with local vegetables, while Ethan went for a hearty sandwich. I tried their signature curry, which had a unique blend of spices and flavors. We sat in the garden, enjoying the sunshine and the peaceful surroundings. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before our final adventure of the day.


Discover Shimacoya, a unique café and guest house in Naoshima offering coffee, books, and local crafts amidst a stunning artistic backdrop.

Our last dinner on the island was at Yuunagi, a restaurant located across from the Umi no Eki Naoshima. I was eager to try their flounder dishes, as they raise their own flounder using a unique ultraviolet disinfection process. Olivia and Ethan both opted for the deep-fried flounder set meal, while I chose the flounder sashimi. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to their careful cultivation methods. We also tried their Naoshima salt-vanilla soft ice cream, which was a delightful treat. As we ate, we watched the ferries come and go, carrying visitors to and from the island. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing our time on Naoshima was coming to an end.


Discover Yuunagi: A Seafood Haven on Naoshima Island Offering Authentic Japanese Teishoku Cuisine.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to My Lodge Naoshima, our cozy home for the past week. The lodge has been the perfect base for our family to explore the island [TravelDestinationReason]. Its budget-friendly accommodations and welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home [TravelDestinationReason]. We packed our bags, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. Ethan was already planning his next Instagram post, while Olivia was making a mental list of all the books she wanted to read inspired by our visit. I was just grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with my family.


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

Looking back on our time here, Naoshima has truly exceeded all expectations. The blend of art, nature, and culture is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. From the iconic Yellow Pumpkin to the thought-provoking installations at the Chichu Art Museum, every corner of this island has something to offer. The Art House Project provided a unique glimpse into the island's history and community, while the local cuisine tantalized our taste buds. And of course, spending quality time with Olivia and Ethan made it all the more special.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Okayama to catch our train to Tokyo. While I’m excited to see what the capital has in store, I know a part of me will always remain on this enchanting island. Naoshima has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you with a sense of peace and inspiration.

Before I sign off, I must share a quote that resonated with me during our visit:

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of Naoshima. It’s a place where art isn’t just something you observe, but something you experience and become a part of. And as we prepare to leave, I know that the art of Naoshima will continue to inspire us long after we’ve returned home.

Until next time, happy travels!

James