Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Honmura's Hidden Gems: Art, Food, and Local Life

Today was all about diving deep into the heart of Naoshima, exploring the Honmura district, and experiencing the unique blend of art, architecture, and local culture that makes this island so special. It was a day of discovery, both for the eyes and the palate, as I wandered through art installations and savored the flavors of the Seto Inland Sea.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. This charming café, tucked away in a renovated traditional house, is known for its delicious scones and dishes made with local Setouchi ingredients. I opted for the seasonal special, a colorful and healthy plate featuring fresh vegetables and seafood. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The chef, a certified nutritionist, clearly puts a lot of love into her creations.


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

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the Art House Project. This project, which began in 1998, involves transforming abandoned houses, temples, and even a dentist's office into unique art spaces. The Art House Project is scattered throughout the Honmura district, blending seamlessly into the traditional Japanese neighborhood. I started at the Honmura Lounge & Archive, which serves as the information center for the Art House Project. It’s also where you can purchase tickets and get a map of the various installations.


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

The first stop was Kadoya, the very first house to be transformed as part of the Art House Project.

Kadoya, a 200-year-old restored residence with a traditional storehouse, was a fascinating blend of old and new. The artworks on display included a LED display set in a pool of water, a window turned into a digital display, and an unconventional Japanese scroll painting. The artist, Tatsuo Miyajima, really captured the essence of time and technology in his work. It was a thought-provoking experience, and I found myself pondering the relationship between tradition and modernity.


Explore the harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Naoshima's Art House Project: Kadoya.

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

As I strolled through the streets of Honmura, I couldn't help but notice the way the art integrated with the everyday life of the locals. Children played in the streets, elderly residents tended their gardens, and the scent of miso soup wafted from open windows. It was a reminder that art is not just something to be admired in a museum, but a part of the fabric of life.

Next on the list was Walking Ark, an outdoor sculpture by Keisuke Yamaguchi. Inspired by Noah's Ark and the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, this white and blue structure seems to float on the horizon, evoking a sense of hope and resilience. It was a beautiful and moving piece, and I spent some time simply admiring it and contemplating its message. Lena would have loved this piece; she always appreciates art that makes a statement.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

For lunch, I headed to RestaurantEN, drawn in by its reputation for serving local cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant overlooks a serene courtyard, providing a tranquil setting for a midday meal. I opted for the Setouchi seafood set, which included a variety of fresh catches prepared in different ways. Each dish was a work of art in itself, and the flavors were simply divine. It was a true taste of Naoshima.


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

After lunch, I decided to take a break from art and simply wander through the streets of Honmura. I stumbled upon a small shop selling local crafts, where I picked up a few souvenirs for Lena and my family back in Costa Rica. I also stopped at a traditional sweet shop and sampled some mochi, a chewy rice cake that is a staple of Japanese cuisine. It's these little moments of discovery that make traveling so rewarding.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Gumbo Hut Shioya for dinner. This quirky restaurant, known for its Cajun cuisine, is a bit of an anomaly on Naoshima, but it's a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. The owner, a friendly fellow named Buddy, greeted me with a warm smile and a hearty welcome. I ordered the gumbo, of course, and it was absolutely delicious – a flavorful and comforting dish that hit the spot after a long day of exploring. The retro vibe of the place, complete with vintage music, added to the experience.


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

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I decided to stop by Honmura Lounge & Archive for a nightcap. This cozy bar, housed in a renovated supermarket, is a great place to relax and unwind after a day of art and exploration. I ordered a local beer and chatted with some of the other patrons, exchanging stories and recommendations. It was a fitting end to a day of discovery and connection.


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 Tsunosaki and Gokurakuji Temple, venturing further into the natural beauty and spiritual side of Naoshima. I'm also looking forward to trying Café Ippo for breakfast and Aisunao for lunch, continuing my culinary journey through the island. And, of course, I'll be sure to check out Shimacoya for some unique souvenirs. I'm excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring!

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place where art, nature, and culture come together in a unique and harmonious way. It's a place that challenges you to think, to feel, and to connect with the world around you. And it's a place that I will never forget.

The weather today was moderately chilly and breezy, typical for March. I was glad I had packed a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes. It seems like the weather will remain consistent for the rest of my trip, so I'm prepared for more days of exploring in similar conditions. I am still missing my sunscreen and power adapter, a mistake I won't repeat on future trips.

I am looking forward to sharing more of my adventures with you all. Until tomorrow!