Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Diving Deep into Miyanoura

Today was all about experiencing the heart of Naoshima's Miyanoura district. It's amazing how much a small area can offer, from unique art installations to delicious local food and a public bath that's a work of art in itself. I'm finding that each day here peels back another layer of this fascinating island.

My day started, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Nagomi. Located in the Naoshima General Welfare Centre, it's a place where locals and tourists mingle, and the food is simple, delicious, and affordable. It's exactly the kind of place I love to find when I travel – authentic and unpretentious. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. Fuelled up for the day, I was ready to explore.


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

First on the agenda was the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu. I'd heard so much about this place, and it definitely lived up to the hype. Designed by artist Shinro Ohtake, it's not just a place to get clean; it's an immersive art experience. From the outside, it looks like a crazy collage of colors, tiles, and objects. Inside, it's a traditional Japanese bathhouse, but with an artistic twist. There's an elephant sculpture, colorful mosaics, and all sorts of quirky details. You can even purchase original goods designed by Shinro Ohtake at the entrance. I decided to take a dip, embracing the full experience. It was definitely a unique way to experience art. As someone who appreciates the blend of art and everyday life, this was a highlight.


Experience the unique blend of relaxation and art at Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, a must-visit destination for tranquility and cultural immersion.

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

After my bath, I felt refreshed and ready to take on more art. Next up was Miyanoura Gallery 6, a short walk from the bathhouse. This gallery is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, which is interesting in itself. The gallery focuses on photography and video installations, and the current exhibition featured works related to the landscape, culture, folklore, and history of the Seto Inland Sea area. It was fascinating to see how artists interpret the local environment and culture. The building itself, designed by architect Taira Nishizawa, is a blend of the old and the new, retaining the facade of the former pachinko parlor while creating a modern exhibition space inside.


Discover the intersection of art and nature at Miyanoura Gallery 6, a serene destination on Naoshima Island showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

By this time, I was starting to get hungry again, so I headed to Namihei for lunch. This restaurant is known for its delicious and affordable Japanese cuisine. I ordered a set meal with fresh seafood, rice, and miso soup. It was simple, but incredibly satisfying. I love how fresh the ingredients are here in Naoshima. It makes all the difference.


Experience the charm of Naoshima at Namihei, a budget Japanese inn offering comfort and local culture in the heart of the art island.

After lunch, I decided to do a bit of shopping at the Art Island Center. This shop carries a variety of art books, stationery, and gifts. I picked up a few postcards to send to Lena and the family back in Berlin. I also found a beautiful sketchbook that I think will be perfect for capturing my impressions of the island.


Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to New Olympia for dinner. This sushi restaurant is a local favorite, and it's easy to see why. The sushi was incredibly fresh and delicious. I opted for the assorted sashimi plate, and it was a delight. The cozy atmosphere of the old shop added character to the dining experience. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Miyanoura.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

One thing I noticed today was the sense of community in Miyanoura. People were friendly and welcoming, and there was a real mix of locals and tourists. It felt like a place where everyone was welcome. It reminded me of the small town in Costa Rica where I grew up, where everyone knows each other and there's a strong sense of belonging.

As I walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the immersive art of the public bath to the delicious local cuisine and the sense of community, Miyanoura had definitely made an impression on me. It's amazing how much you can experience in a small area.


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

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore the Art House Project in the Honmura district. I've heard great things about the Kadoya and Walking Ark installations, and I'm looking forward to seeing them for myself. I'm also planning to check out the Honmura Lounge & Archive for a drink in the evening. It sounds like a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the island. I'm also planning on having breakfast at APRON CAFE and dinner at Gumbo Hut Shioya. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to discover new places, meet new people, and experience new things. And Naoshima is definitely delivering on all fronts. Good night from Naoshima!

I should remember to buy some sunscreen and a power adapter at the 7-Eleven tomorrow.

Naoshima continues to surprise me with its unique blend of art, culture, and community. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

For those planning a visit, Miyanoura is easily accessible by ferry and offers a great introduction to the island's artistic spirit. Don't miss the public bath, the local restaurants, and the Art Island Center for a taste of Naoshima's charm.

And now, time for some well-deserved rest. Tomorrow, Honmura awaits!

Until then, keep exploring!