Artistic Exploration on Naoshima Island

Off the Beaten Path in Naoshima

Today was a day of venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of Naoshima, seeking out the island's more secluded and less-known treasures. With Hans by my side, I traded the bustling art museums for tranquil parks, ancient rock formations, and quiet culinary corners. It was a refreshing change of pace, allowing us to connect with the island's natural beauty and local charm on a deeper level.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo, a charming spot known for its vegan options and cozy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into someone's home, with friendly faces and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried their homemade vegetable cake. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


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 Kasaneiwa, a set of stacked rocks with a mysterious origin. Reaching it required a bit of a trek, involving a ferry ride and a winding mountain road. Legend has it that these rocks were either naturally formed or stacked by someone, and they're considered a spiritual power spot. The climb was steep, but the view from the top was worth every drop of sweat. We could see the Seto Inland Sea stretching out before us, dotted with tiny islands, a scene of serene beauty.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Kasaneiwa, a captivating landmark in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

Like a Japanese shrine, we were aiming for an architecture with a certain spatiality that exists as a spiritual pillar for the people, even if on a modest scale.

Next, we headed to Yokobou Park, a peaceful retreat offering panoramic views of the island. It was a welcome respite after our climb to Kasaneiwa. We strolled through the park's winding paths, admiring the lush greenery and the distant views of the sea. I took the opportunity to capture some photos, trying to capture the essence of the island's tranquility. Hans, on the other hand, simply sat on a bench, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.


Experience peace and beauty in Naoshima's Yokobou Park, a tranquil retreat amidst nature's artistry, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

For lunch, we decided to try Ishii Shouten, an unassuming udon shop that came highly recommended. The aroma of freshly made noodles wafted through the air as we stepped inside. We both ordered the classic beef udon, and it was absolutely divine. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the broth was rich and flavorful. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, a true taste of local cuisine.


Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Valley Gallery, a unique space designed by Tadao Ando. This gallery is nestled in a valley and aims to merge architecture with nature. The structure itself is a work of art, with its angular steel roof and concrete walls creating a minimalist yet striking space. Inside, natural light filters through openings, casting shadows that shift with the time of day. The gallery also features works by Yayoi Kusama and Tsuyoshi Ozawa, adding to the artistic experience.


Explore contemporary art at the Valley Gallery in Naoshima, where nature meets creativity in a stunning modern museum setting.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Yayoda, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional Japanese ambiance, the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. We ordered a selection of sashimi and grilled seafood skewers, each dish bursting with flavor. To complement our meal, we also tried a local sake, a perfect pairing that elevated the dining experience.


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

Finally, we ended our evening at BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima, a cozy spot where Kai, the bartender, roasts his own coffee beans. It’s the kind of place where you can relax with a well-made cocktail and chat with the locals. Hans enjoyed a local beer, while I opted for one of Kai's coffee cocktails.


Discover the serene ambiance and exquisite drinks at BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima, the perfect retreat after exploring the island's art and culture.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Naoshima is more than just its famous museums. It's an island with a rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm, welcoming people. Exploring its hidden gems allowed us to experience a different side of the island, one that we'll cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Shipyard Works By Shinro Otake, Danyama, and perhaps even enjoy a cup of tea at a local spot. I am looking forward to more hidden treasures and artistic discoveries.