Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Day 6: Soaking in Culture and Art on Naoshima

Today was all about diving deeper into Naoshima's unique blend of art and culture. I wanted to experience the island not just as a tourist, but as someone truly engaging with its essence. It was a day of unexpected discoveries, soothing experiences, and delicious local flavors.

My morning started with a hearty breakfast at Yayoda. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The cozy atmosphere of Yayoda made me feel like a local, and I enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff about their favorite spots on the island. They recommended I visit the Cultural Melting Bath, which was high on my list.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

After breakfast, I headed to the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. This outdoor installation, created by Cai Guo-Qiang, is essentially a hot tub made of Taifu rocks from China and an American-made Jacuzzi, arranged according to Feng Shui principles. Unfortunately, the bathing experience is exclusively available for Benesse House hotel guests. Instead, I admired the structure and its integration with the natural landscape. The sea breeze, the sound of the waves, and the artistic setting created a serene atmosphere. Though I couldn't soak in the bath itself, the tranquility of the location was a treat.


Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.

From there, I decided to explore the Miyanoura area, making my way to Miyanoura Gallery 6. This gallery is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, a former amusement arcade, which adds to its unique charm. The architect Taira Nishizawa transformed the space into a place where visitors and locals can relax and connect. Inside, the gallery features rotating exhibits that document various aspects of the region's history. I was particularly intrigued by the Setouchi Archive project by artist Motoyuki Shitamichi, which showcases the island's tourism, industry, and local photographers.


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

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

The gallery itself was a little gem. The building's original facade was preserved, and the interior was renovated with natural sunlight streaming through the louvers on the ceiling. It created a beautiful interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the artwork on display. I spent a couple of hours delving into the archives, learning about the island's past and present. The Miyanoura Gallery 6 truly captures the essence of Naoshima's community-centered spirit.

For lunch, I ventured to Gumbo Hut Shioya. I’d heard so much about this place, a Cajun restaurant in the heart of Japan. The owner, Buddy, has a deep passion for Southern culture and cuisine, having visited the American South over 30 times. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by the aroma of simmering gumbo and walls adorned with portraits of blues legends. It felt like stepping into a different world.


Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at Gumbo Hut Shioya on Naoshima Island - where flavor meets art in an unforgettable dining adventure.

I ordered their signature gumbo, which was a hearty and flavorful mix of spice, smokiness, and heat. Paired with a crisp Japanese draft beer, it was the perfect meal after a morning of art exploration. Chatting with Buddy was a highlight; his stories about his travels and his love for Cajun cuisine were fascinating. Gumbo Hut Shioya is more than just a restaurant; it's an artistic installation in itself, bringing the spirit of New Orleans to Naoshima.

In the late afternoon, I decided to unwind at the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This space serves as an information center for the Art House Project and a place to relax and contemplate. Housed in a former agricultural cooperative supermarket, the lounge retains much of its original architecture. I grabbed a cup of coffee and browsed the collection of books and goods related to the Art House Project.


Explore art, culture, and local insights at Honmura Lounge & Archive, Naoshima's vibrant tourist information hub.

The Honmura Lounge is designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa. It provides a tranquil environment to reflect on the art I had seen throughout the day. I learned more about the artists and architects involved in the Art House Project, gaining a deeper appreciation for their work. It’s also a great place to purchase tickets for the Art House Project. I made a mental note to explore the Art House Project tomorrow, as it offers a unique perspective on contemporary art within traditional Japanese buildings.

As evening approached, I made my way to EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 for dinner. This restaurant is known for its use of local Setouchi ingredients, offering a true taste of the island. I ordered a seafood dish that was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant overlooks the Seto Inland Sea, providing stunning views as the sun set. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food made it a perfect end to a day of cultural immersion.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place where art, nature, and community intertwine. The Cultural Melting Bath, Miyanoura Gallery 6, Gumbo Hut Shioya, Honmura Lounge & Archive, and EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 each contributed to a deeper understanding of the island's soul. It's a place where you can slow down, connect with art, and appreciate the simple beauty of island life.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Walking Ark and La forêt des murmures. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Tee's DELI GROCERY and lunch at Aisunao. I will also visit the Chichu Art Museum Ticket Center to secure my entry for another day. Each day here brings new adventures and insights, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.

This solo trip has been incredibly rewarding. As much as I love traveling with Max, there’s something special about experiencing a place on your own terms, at your own pace. It allows for a deeper connection with the surroundings and a greater sense of self-discovery. I'm already looking forward to sharing these experiences with him when I get back to Berlin, and perhaps even planning a return trip together. For now, I'm savoring every moment of this artistic journey on Naoshima Island.