Exploring Naoshima: A Family Art Adventure

Island Explorations: Art, Eats, and Evening Retreats

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Naoshima, a day brimming with art, history, and the simple joys of island life. From quirky galleries to innovative installations, and from delicious local fare to a perfectly mixed nightcap, it was a day that truly captured the spirit of this unique destination. Join me as I recount our adventures, and perhaps you'll find inspiration for your own artistic journey.


The day began, as many good days do, with a hearty breakfast. We ventured out to Café Ippo, a charming spot near the Art House Project. The cafe, run by a friendly couple, had the feel of a traditional Japanese home. I opted for their set breakfast, which came with perfectly brewed coffee. Ethan, predictably, went for something sweet, while Olivia enjoyed a more traditional Japanese breakfast set. Fueled up, we were ready to tackle the day's artistic agenda.



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

Our first stop was Miyanoura Gallery 6. Housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, the gallery itself is a work of art, blending the old with the new. The building retained the facade of the former pachinko parlor. Inside, the space was transformed, with natural sunlight creating an evolving canvas for the art. The current exhibition featured a collection of photographs. Ethan, surprisingly, was quite taken with the display, spending a good amount of time examining each photo. Olivia appreciated the architectural ingenuity of the space, while I enjoyed the way the natural light played with the art.



Discover contemporary art in a serene setting at Miyanoura Gallery 6 on Naoshima, a unique blend of nature and creativity.

Next on our list was Shinro Ohtake's Shipyard Works. This installation, located near the sea, incorporates elements of the island's industrial past into striking works of art. The colorful and somewhat chaotic nature of the pieces was quite captivating. Ethan, always drawn to the unconventional, was particularly fascinated by the repurposed materials and the sheer scale of the project. Olivia, with her keen eye for detail, appreciated the way Ohtake had transformed these industrial relics into something beautiful and thought-provoking. As a photographer, I was in my element, capturing the textures and forms against the backdrop of the sea and sky.



Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.

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

Lunch beckoned, and we made our way to Yuunagi, a cafeteria known for its seafood. I decided to try their fried flounder, a local specialty, while Olivia opted for a sashimi set. Ethan, ever adventurous, chose a seafood curry. The flounder was perfectly crispy and flavorful, a true taste of the Seto Inland Sea. Olivia's sashimi was incredibly fresh, and even Ethan, who can be a picky eater, devoured his curry. The restaurant was run by a friendly husband and wife team, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.



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

After lunch, we headed to the Honmura district to visit the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This building, once a supermarket, now serves as an information center for the Art House Project. Ryue Nishizawa designed the space. We purchased our tickets for the Art House Project here, and I picked up a guidebook to help us navigate the various installations. The lounge itself was a pleasant space, with comfortable seating and a small shop selling art-related goods.



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

With our Art House Project tickets in hand, we spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the various installations scattered throughout Honmura. Each house was unique, reflecting the vision of the artist who transformed it. We wandered through narrow streets, discovering hidden gems at every turn. The Art House Project truly brings art into the daily lives of the island's residents, creating a unique and immersive experience.


As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves seeking a place to unwind. Based on a recommendation from the staff at My Lodge Naoshima, we decided to try BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the island, this bar was a delightful surprise. The bartender was a master of his craft, mixing classic cocktails with precision and flair. I ordered an Old Fashioned, while Olivia chose a Gin Martini. Ethan, of course, stuck to non-alcoholic options, but even he appreciated the ambiance of the bar. The bar is known for being the only spot open after 9 pm on the island.



Discover the serene ambiance and exquisite drinks at BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima, the perfect retreat after exploring the island's art and culture.

Sitting there, sipping our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures. Naoshima had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of art, culture, and relaxation. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I find myself already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit Walking Ark, Gokurakuji Temple, and Seaside Gallery. I'm also hoping to find some time to do a bit of shopping at the Art Island Center.


Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. It's a place where art is not confined to museums and galleries but spills out into the streets, into the homes, and into the very fabric of daily life. If you're looking for a destination that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your creativity, look no further than this enchanting island.


Until tomorrow,

James


P.S. I really need to remember to pack that portable phone charger next time. My phone nearly died about midday, and I missed some great photo opportunities! And an umbrella would have been useful too – the weather here can be a bit unpredictable. At least I have my trusty camera and comfortable walking shoes, the essentials for any good adventure!