Artistic Exploration on Naoshima Island

Naoshima's Hidden Charms

Today was all about venturing beyond the main attractions and soaking in the more subtle, yet equally captivating, aspects of Naoshima. Hans and I were eager to explore the island's hidden corners, experience its local flavors, and capture the essence of its unique artistic spirit. It was a day of discovery, filled with unexpected delights and moments of peaceful contemplation.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. The cafe is tucked away in one of the narrow alleyways behind Honmura village. The cafe itself had a refreshing simplicity. I decided on the Seasonal Special Lunch set, which was a vibrant mix of locally sourced ingredients. Hans opted for the Naoshima sea salted butter and sweet summer orange jam with cranberry and coconut scones. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

First on our list was Shipyard Works By Shinro Otake. As we approached the site, the integration of art with the island's industrial heritage was immediately striking. The dramatic structures against the backdrop of the sea and sky were perfect for photography. Shinro Otake's work is characterized by its innovative use of materials and forms.


Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.

We then made our way to Danyama, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the island. The walk to the top was invigorating, and the vista was well worth the effort. From our vantage point, we could see the terraced rice fields.


Experience breathtaking views and tranquility at Danyama, a must-visit observation deck in Japan's stunning Teshimaieura region.

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

After soaking in the views, we decided to indulge in a traditional experience with a cup of tea. 'Drink a Cup of Tea' is intertwined with the island's vibrant art scene, featuring captivating sculptures that enhance the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. As we sipped our tea, we admired the surrounding sculptures, each piece adding to the serene atmosphere. The carefully chosen teas reflect the essence of Japanese traditions, bringing together flavor and mindfulness in each cup.


Experience the serene blend of art and tea at Naoshima's enchanting 'Drink a Cup of Tea' - a must-visit for art and tea lovers alike.

For lunch, we ventured to Gumbo Hut Shioya, a charming Cajun restaurant serving generous portions of gumbo. Buddy, the owner and chef, has visited the American South more than 30 times and opened Gumbo Hut Shioya out of a deep passion for Southern culture and cuisine. Inside, the walls were adorned with portraits of blues legends like B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Despite the cultural asymmetry, Buddy's Gumbo Hut is actually quite fitting in Naoshima Island, a hub for experimental art installations and avant-garde architecture. The gumbo was delicious, delivering a balanced blend of spice, smokiness, and heat in every bite.


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

In the late afternoon, we explored Shimacoya, a unique book café and guesthouse. The building itself is a renovated 120-year-old Japanese house. We browsed the selection of books and artisanal crafts. The variety store showcases a range of artisanal crafts and local goods, providing a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Naoshima's unique culture.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

For dinner, we decided to try RestaurantEN, known for its innovative approach to local ingredients. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, and the menu featured a creative blend of traditional Japanese flavors with modern culinary techniques. I opted for the chef's tasting menu, which was a delightful journey through the region's seasonal offerings. Hans chose the grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection and served with a medley of fresh vegetables.


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

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences and made plans for our final day on Naoshima. Tomorrow, we intend to visit the Art House Project: Kadoya and the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu. Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, we stopped by One Rest for a nightcap. It was the perfect end to a day filled with art, culture, and culinary delights. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel – the joy of discovering hidden gems and connecting with the unique spirit of a place.


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

Tomorrow marks the end of our artistic exploration on Naoshima Island. We'll be soaking up the last bits of inspiration before heading back to Berlin, filled with memories and photographs to last a lifetime. It's been an incredible journey, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!

“The world isn't just the way it is. It is how we understand it, no? And in understanding something, we bring something to it, no? Doesn't that make life a creative enterprise?”