Family Adventure on Naoshima Island: Art, Culture, and Nature

Coastal Charms and Artistic Adventures

Today was all about embracing the laid-back island vibe of Naoshima, mixing art with a touch of nature and a whole lot of local flavor. It's amazing how much this island offers, and I'm excited to share our day's journey with you. From seaside galleries to fishing parks, and delightful local cuisine, Naoshima continues to surprise and enchant us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Little Plum. I'd heard great things about their homemade dry curry, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s a cozy little café-bar housed in a renovated marine container, adding to its unique charm. Lina loved the quirky setting, and Mei enjoyed a cup of their expertly brewed coffee. It was the perfect way to kickstart our day, fueling us for the adventures ahead. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, a sentiment that seems to echo throughout Naoshima.


Experience the essence of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a serene setting.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Seaside Gallery. This architectural gem, designed by Tadao Ando, is nestled in a terraced plaza overlooking the ocean. As we strolled from the Benesse House Museum, the views of the Seto Inland Sea were simply breathtaking. The gallery itself boasts a long, narrow layout that follows the natural topography, allowing an abundance of light to flood in. Inside, we admired thematic artworks reflecting the beauty of the surrounding sea. It was a casual yet profound experience, a testament to how art and nature can harmoniously coexist.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

Art isn't just something you see; it's something you experience, something that changes the way you perceive the world around you.

Next on our agenda was the Naoshima Fishing Park. Now, I’m not much of a fisherman myself, but I thought it would be a fun experience for Lina. And it was! The park is a tranquil retreat, offering a chance to unwind and connect with nature. We rented fishing rods and bought some krill, and soon Lina was casting her line like a pro. While we didn’t catch anything spectacular, the joy on her face was priceless. The park is designed to accommodate both novice and experienced anglers, providing all the necessary amenities for a relaxing day by the sea.


Explore Naoshima Fishing Park, a serene escape blending natural beauty and local fishing culture on the stunning Naoshima Island.

Mei and I enjoyed a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the serene landscape. The lush greenery and coastal views made it a peaceful escape from the midday sun. I even managed to snap a few photos, capturing the essence of this charming park. It’s not just about angling; it’s about immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Apparently, they offer sea bream sashimi set menus on weekends and holidays, something to keep in mind for a future visit.

After our fishing adventure, we were ready for lunch. We headed to NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda, a local eatery known for its delectable fish set meals. The menu changes daily, highlighting the freshest catches of the day. We savored options like sashimi, grilled fish, and boiled fish sets featuring local favorites such as Spanish mackerel and sea bream. The portions were generous, and the flavors were authentic. It was a true taste of Naoshima, a culinary experience that we won’t soon forget.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at the Art Island Center. This shop is a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs, perfect for picking up mementos of our trip. We found some beautiful postcards featuring Yayoi Kusama’s iconic artwork, as well as some locally made salt products. I even bought a bag of Solashio, the sun-dried salt made at the Naoshima Fishing Park. Apparently, they use a salt manufacturing technology that was popular in Naoshima in the old days. It’s supposed to have a slightly sweet taste, thanks to the richness of calcium. I'm eager to try it out back in Berlin.


Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.

As evening approached, we made our way to Perma_Naoshima for dinner. This ramen restaurant is renowned for its exquisite flavors and warm hospitality. The inviting ambiance made us feel right at home, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The ramen was rich and savory, crafted with carefully selected ingredients. Mei opted for the vegetarian option, while Lina and I indulged in the classic tonkotsu broth. It was the perfect way to end our day, savoring the flavors of Japan in a cozy setting.


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

“Travel is not about the destination, but the journey and the memories made along the way.”

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Naoshima has to offer. It’s not just about the art; it’s about the people, the culture, and the natural beauty that surrounds you. It’s about embracing the laid-back island vibe and immersing yourself in the local experience. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Honmura district, visiting the Honmura Lounge & Archive and the Art House Project: Haisha. I’m particularly excited about the Art House Project, which involves the restoration of empty houses and transforming them into works of art. We’ll also be trying out Yuunagi for breakfast, Okonomiyaki Umikko for lunch, and Aisunao for dinner. And if we have time, we might even check out Cin.na.mon, a local bar known for its funky ambiance and delicious food.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. Naoshima has exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and nature. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I look forward to sharing our adventures with you.

Until then, sayōnara!