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

Island Treasures: Art, Bream, and Blissful Bites

Today was a day of delightful discoveries here on Naoshima. It's amazing how much this small island packs in, from quirky art installations to mouthwatering local food. The blend of art and everyday life here is truly unique, and I'm excited to share our experiences.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Akaito Coffee, a charming café near Miyanoura Port. The red-brick exterior and nostalgic interior gave it a warm, inviting vibe. The aroma of hand-roasted coffee filled the air, and we couldn't resist trying their Akaito Blend. It was smooth and full-bodied, just what we needed to kickstart our day. Lina especially loved the scones, while Mei opted for the gateau chocolat. They even have a small bookstore inside, Akaito Books, which was a nice touch. It’s the perfect spot to pause, breathe, and connect with the quiet rhythm of Naoshima. I made a mental note to try and recreate those scones back in Berlin; they were that good! It reminded me of some of the cozy cafes we frequent in Berlin, but with a distinct Naoshima charm.


Discover Akaito Coffee on Naoshima Island, where art, literature, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee create an unforgettable experience.

After breakfast, we hopped on our rented bikes and headed towards Uno Port, just a short ferry ride away, to see Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno. It’s an impressive sculpture made from recycled materials, primarily collected from the sea. The kids were fascinated by the sheer size and the intricate details. It’s amazing how art can be used to raise awareness about environmental conservation. The Black Sea Bream is quite the sight. It's created from discarded items, like empty cans and plastic bottles, collected from homes. It was initially installed for the first edition of the Triennale and has been re-colored and refreshed since then. It’s a great example of how art can be both visually appealing and environmentally conscious. We took some fun photos with it, the kids pretending to be swallowed by the giant fish.


Explore the artistic brilliance of Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, where recycled materials transform into stunning sculptures celebrating marine beauty.

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

Back on Naoshima, we decided to visit Miyanoura Gallery 6. The gallery is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, which I found particularly interesting, given my background in IT and interest in how spaces can be repurposed. The architect, Taira Nishizawa, did an excellent job of transforming the space while retaining the original facade. Inside, the gallery was hosting the Setouchi Archive Project, featuring research and materials related to the Seto Inland Sea area. It was fascinating to learn about the local culture and history through the exhibits. Lina, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking lots of questions about the displays. Mei and I appreciated the thought-provoking nature of the art, which provided new perspectives on the island. The gallery itself aims to be a space where visitors can directly engage with the island’s past records and memories, fostering new relationships and shaping the island’s future. I found that ambition quite admirable.


Discover the intersection of art and nature at Miyanoura Gallery 6, a serene destination on Naoshima Island showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

For lunch, we stopped by Tee's DELI GROCERY. From the outside it doesn't look like much, but the food was fantastic. I had heard about their falafel sandwiches, and they did not disappoint. The music playing inside created a cool, laid-back vibe. It’s neither a deli nor a grocery, but the food is delicious. The staff was super friendly, and the atmosphere was very welcoming. It felt like a hidden gem, a place where locals and tourists alike could come together and enjoy a good meal. Lina devoured her sandwich, declaring it the best falafel she'd ever had. Mei opted for the jerk chicken, which she said was equally delicious.


Discover the flavors of Naoshima at Tee's DELI GROCERY, where great food meets artistic vibes in an unforgettable dining experience.

After lunch, we did a little shopping at kokochi. It’s a charming little shop with a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for friends back in Berlin, while Mei found a beautiful handmade scarf. Lina, of course, wanted everything she saw, but we managed to convince her to choose just one small trinket. It’s one of those places where you can find unique items that truly capture the essence of Naoshima. I always appreciate supporting local artisans, and this shop was a perfect opportunity to do so.


Discover the creative fusion of art and cuisine at Café Kokochi on Naoshima Island, where every bite tells a story.

As evening approached, we made our way to Namihei for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it lived up to the hype. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the service was impeccable. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, sashimi, and tempura. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were exquisite. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, perfect for a family dinner. We sat by the window, enjoying the beautiful view of the sea as we ate. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. The kids were a bit tired, but they perked up when the desserts arrived. We shared a delicious chocolate cake, which was the perfect sweet treat to cap off the evening.


Experience the charm of Naoshima at Namihei, a budget Japanese inn offering comfort and local culture in the heart of the art island.

Reflecting on the day, I’m struck by how much Naoshima has to offer. It’s not just an island of art; it’s an island of experiences. From the quirky galleries to the delightful dining experiences, every moment here is a feast for the senses. And the best part is sharing it all with my family. It’s moments like these that make our travels so special.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Naoshima Hall and the Art House Project: Kadoya. We’ll also be grabbing breakfast at APRON CAFE and lunch at Ishii Shouten. In the evening, we’re hoping to unwind at the Honmura Lounge & Archive. It’s our last full day on Naoshima, so we want to make the most of it.

As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Naoshima has exceeded all of our expectations, and I know that we’ll be leaving with memories that will last a lifetime. It's a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding travel experiences are found in the most unexpected places. Good night from Naoshima!