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

Art and Serenity in Honmura

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and artistic discovery as we explored the Honmura district, home to the Art House Project. This unique initiative transforms abandoned houses, temples, and shrines into captivating art installations, weaving contemporary art into the fabric of Naoshima's history and culture. It’s amazing how art can breathe new life into forgotten spaces, and I was eager to experience this blend of past and present with Mei and Lina.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This charming spot, with its traditional Japanese home vibe, was the perfect place to fuel up for a day of exploration. Mei enjoyed a classic Japanese coffee, while Lina opted for a sweet traditional snack. I went for a bit of both, eager to soak in the local flavors and atmosphere. The café's cozy ambiance and the friendly smiles of the staff set a wonderful tone for the day.


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

First on our itinerary was the Go'o Shrine, a site that beautifully merges traditional Shinto architecture with modern art. Designed by Hiroshi Sugimoto, the shrine features a glass staircase that connects an underground stone chamber to the heavens above. This symbolizes the link between the earthly and spiritual realms. As we walked through the shrine, the interplay of light and space created a serene and almost ethereal atmosphere. Lina was fascinated by the glass staircase, carefully counting each step as she descended into the chamber. Mei and I appreciated the thoughtful design and the way it invited reflection.


Discover the serene Art House Project: Go'o Shrine in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets traditional Shinto spirituality in a breathtaking setting.

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

Next, we ventured to Minamidera, a structure designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. This building, constructed on the site of a former temple, houses James Turrell's Backside of the Moon, an art piece that plays with your perception of light. Entering Minamidera felt like stepping into another world. The experience was both disorienting and enlightening, as Turrell’s work challenged our senses and made us question what we were seeing. Lina, initially a bit apprehensive about the darkness, soon became intrigued by the shifting light and the way it transformed the space. Mei found the exhibit deeply contemplative, remarking on how it made her more aware of her own sensory experiences.


Discover the Art House Project: Minamidera in Naoshima, where modern art meets traditional Japanese architecture in a serene setting.

After immersing ourselves in the Art House Project, we were ready for a satisfying lunch. We chose Ebisukamo, a classic izakaya in Honmura village. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, prepared with simple yet delicious techniques. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making us feel like we were dining in a friend’s living room. I savored the yellowtail sashimi, while Mei enjoyed the clams in sake. Lina, always a fan of seafood, devoured the tempura. The friendly staff and the excellent sake selection added to the charm of the meal.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Ebisukamo on Naoshima Island—where local flavors meet serene beauty.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to take a break before dinner. We briefly returned to My Lodge Naoshima, our budget-friendly accommodation, to recharge and relax. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s comfortable and conveniently located, making it an ideal base for our family adventures. Plus, it gives us a chance to mingle with other travelers and exchange stories and tips.


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

For dinner, we headed to Raumen Tsumu, a local ramen spot known for its authentic dishes and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to taste their flavorful ramen. I opted for the tantanmen, a spicy minced meat ramen that packed a flavorful punch. Mei chose a more traditional ramen, while Lina happily slurped down her noodles. The friendly service and the delicious food made it a perfect end to a day filled with art and exploration.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan with delicious ramen at Raumen Tsumu on Naoshima Island.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Bar SARU, a small bar near the port. Mei and Lina opted to head back to the lodge to rest, while I ventured out for a nightcap. Bar SARU had a laid-back, almost bohemian vibe, with surf videos playing on the TV and a mellow soundtrack setting the mood. I enjoyed a local beer while chatting with some of the other patrons, a mix of locals and fellow travelers. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the day we had. Naoshima has a way of slowing you down and making you appreciate the simple things in life. The Art House Project, with its blend of art, architecture, and history, offers a unique and transformative experience. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of art and find yourself in the process.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Naoshima's outdoor art installations and perhaps visit the Benesse House Museum. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure on this enchanting island. I'm particularly keen on capturing some sunset shots, so hopefully, the weather will cooperate.

“The best journey always takes us home, in ways we never expected.” Reflecting on today, I realize that Naoshima isn't just a destination; it's an experience that enriches the soul and brings us closer to ourselves and each other. As we continue our family adventure, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems this island has in store for us.