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

A Day of Architectural Wonder and Open-Air Contemplation

Today was a day of diving deep into the architectural genius of Tadao Ando and experiencing the serene beauty of Naoshima's outdoor art. It's amazing how much this island, with its blend of art and nature, has captured our hearts. Mei, Lina, and I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to explore more of what this artistic haven has to offer.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. It’s a cozy little spot, and Lina was particularly excited about the promise of 'Happy Scones,' though, sadly, they were sold out by the time we arrived. Still, the seasonal set lunch was a delight. Designed by a nutritionist, it was packed with fresh, local ingredients from the Setouchi region. I appreciated the vibrant colors and the healthy mix of flavors – a perfect start to a day of exploration. Mei enjoyed a cup of their expertly brewed coffee, while Lina devoured a simple, yet delicious, toast with jam. Fuelled up, we were ready to immerse ourselves in art and architecture.

First on our agenda was the Ando Museum. Tucked away in Honmura, this museum is a tribute to Tadao Ando's work on Naoshima. From the outside, it appears as a traditional 100-year-old wooden house, blending seamlessly into the townscape. But stepping inside is like entering another world. The interior is a striking contrast, with concrete structures sharply defined by natural light. It’s a building within a building, a concept that perfectly encapsulates Ando’s vision of preserving the old while creating something entirely new. The museum showcases Ando's architectural journey on Naoshima through photographs, models, and drawings. It was fascinating to see how his minimalist concrete designs interact with the natural surroundings, creating spaces that are both modern and deeply rooted in the island's culture. Lina, surprisingly, was quite taken with the architectural models, asking questions about how the buildings were designed and constructed. It sparked a great conversation about architecture and its role in shaping our environment.


Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Architecture is not about concrete. It's about life, or nature, or humanity.

After the museum, we took a leisurely stroll towards the Walking Ark. The sun was shining, and the gentle sea breeze made the walk incredibly pleasant. Naoshima is so compact that walking everywhere is a joy in itself, allowing you to soak in the island's atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way. The Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, is a testament to the island's commitment to blending art with nature. The sculptures, set against the backdrop of the sea and sky, invite contemplation and reflection. It’s a space where art breathes, interacts with the environment, and offers a unique sensory experience. Lina loved running around the sculptures, while Mei and I took our time to appreciate the artistry and the stunning views. It was a perfect spot for a family photo, capturing the essence of our Naoshima adventure.


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

For lunch, we headed to Nagomi, located within the Naoshima Welfare Center. It’s a local spot, offering simple, hearty Japanese meals. I had heard that Nagomi is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub where locals and tourists come together to enjoy a meal. The set meal was delicious and affordable, and it was a great opportunity to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly staff. Lina, always eager to try new things, enjoyed a bowl of udon, while Mei opted for a traditional Japanese curry. The communal canteen-like setting made it easy to strike up conversations with other diners, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.


Discover Nagomi in Naoshima - where authentic Japanese dining meets community spirit in a cozy setting.

After lunch, we had a brief stop at the Chichu Art Museum Ticket Center. We wanted to secure our tickets for a visit to the Chichu Art Museum. Although we didn’t go into the museum today, just being in the vicinity heightened our anticipation for tomorrow's visit. I've heard so much about the museum's unique design, its subterranean galleries, and the way it plays with natural light. The highlight, of course, is seeing Monet's Water Lilies in a space designed specifically to enhance the viewing experience.


Explore the enchanting Chichu Art Museum Ticket Center, your gateway to contemporary art on the scenic island of Naoshima.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to RestaurantEN for dinner. This restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine, blending local ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The ambiance was elegant yet relaxed, and the service was impeccable. I decided to try one of their seafood specialties, while Mei opted for a vegetarian dish. Lina, as always, was happy with a simple pasta dish. The meal was a perfect end to a day filled with art, architecture, and natural beauty.


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

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how seamlessly Naoshima integrates art into everyday life. It’s not just about visiting museums; it’s about experiencing art in every corner of the island, from the sculptures by the sea to the architectural marvels that blend into the landscape. This evening, as we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, under a starlit sky, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this unique experience. It's moments like these, exploring the world with my family, that make all the challenges of life worthwhile.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Art House Project: Kadoya and Yokobou Park, and perhaps do some souvenir shopping at Shimacoya. I’m particularly excited about the Art House Project, as I've heard it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's history and culture. And of course, I am looking forward to trying out Café Ippo for breakfast. Until then, おやすみ (oyasumi) from Naoshima!

I am also thinking about home, about Berlin. I wonder what new tech challenges await me when I return. But for now, I am fully present, immersed in the art and beauty of Naoshima, cherishing these moments with Mei and Lina. This trip is not just a vacation; it’s a chance to reconnect with my family, to broaden our horizons, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows, maybe Lina will be inspired to become an architect one day. The possibilities are endless.

The blend of traditional and modern, the harmony between art and nature, and the warmth of the local community – Naoshima is a destination that nourishes the soul and inspires creativity. It's a place where you can slow down, appreciate the simple things in life, and connect with something greater than yourself. And as we continue our journey, I am excited to see what other treasures this enchanting island has in store for us.

It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog. I want to share these experiences, to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones, to explore the world, and to discover the beauty that lies in every corner of our planet. And if, along the way, I can offer a few practical tips and insights, then I feel like I've accomplished something meaningful. So, thank you for joining me on this adventure. Stay tuned for more stories from Naoshima, and until next time, happy travels!