Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Naoshima's Artistic Heartbeat

Today was another day of artistic immersion here on Naoshima, a place where art isn't just displayed; it's woven into the very fabric of daily life. I set out to explore more of what this island has to offer, from open-air sculptures to transformed living spaces, each corner revealing a new perspective on art and its connection to the community. It's amazing to see how art can breathe new life into traditional settings, creating a dialogue between the past and the present.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. It's a cozy spot known for its vegan fare, but unfortunately, I arrived a bit late this morning. I missed out on the full breakfast menu but managed to snag the last piece of cake and a strong coffee. The staff was incredibly kind, offering me slices of fresh apple as an apology for the limited options. The café had a charming, almost lounge-like atmosphere. It made me wish I had arrived earlier to fully enjoy their well-regarded vegan dishes. I made a mental note to set my alarm earlier tomorrow. I need that fuel for the fishing adventures I have planned!


Discover Café Ippo in Naoshima: A delightful fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and warm hospitality awaits you in this charming café.

With a caffeine boost and a sugar rush, I headed to Benesse House Park. The park is an open-air extension of the Benesse House Museum, showcasing sculptures that interact with the natural landscape. Walking through the park, I was struck by how the art seemed to grow out of the environment, each piece carefully placed to enhance the surrounding scenery. The sea breeze carried the scent of pine and salt, adding another layer to the sensory experience. It was a perfect example of Naoshima's philosophy of blending art, nature, and architecture.


Discover the serene beauty and artistic spirit of Naoshima at Benesse House Park, a luxurious retreat blending nature, art, and hospitality.

Art doesn't change people, it offers people the possibility to change themselves.

Next on my list was the Art House Project: Haisha. This project takes abandoned houses in the Honmura district and transforms them into art installations. 'Haisha,' meaning 'dentist,' was once a dental clinic and residence. Artist Shinro Ohtake converted the entire building into a mesmerizing work of art. The house is a chaotic yet captivating mix of styles, resembling a sculpture, a painting, and a collage all at once. It felt like stepping into someone's dream, a vivid and slightly unsettling dream.


Experience the captivating blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Art House Project: Haisha on Naoshima Island.

Exploring 'Haisha,' I was particularly drawn to the Statue of Liberty perched within the structure, a surreal juxtaposition against the traditional Japanese architecture. The artwork, titled 'Dreaming Tongue,' encourages visitors to recall a dream by retracing tastes and scents, adding a layer of introspection to the experience. The whole project is a remarkable example of how art can breathe new life into forgotten spaces, creating a dialogue between the past and the present.

For lunch, I ventured to Perma_Naoshima, a ramen restaurant that’s been getting a lot of buzz. It was easy to see why. The ramen was incredible, with a rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. It's a cozy spot that embodies the island's artistic vibe. The restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients, and you can taste the difference. I opted for a classic shoyu ramen, and it was the perfect fuel for the rest of my day.


Experience authentic ramen at Perma_Naoshima, where culinary tradition meets the artistic charm of Naoshima Island.

As the day wound down, I made my way to Nagomi for dinner. Nagomi is located within the Naoshima welfare center, making it a unique and community-focused dining experience. It specializes in 'Syokudo and Teishoku,' offering casual dining and set meals. The menu featured seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. I chose a set meal with grilled fish, rice, miso soup, and various small side dishes. It was a comforting and satisfying meal that felt like a true taste of home.


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

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out maimai, a bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and local craft beers. It's a converted garage space with surfboards adding to the decor. I enjoyed a Naoshima Burger – a local fish burger with fresh Hamachi (young yellowtail) and homemade tartar sauce. Paired with a local craft beer, it was the perfect way to end the day.


Discover Maimai, a delightful hamburger café in Naoshima, where flavors meet art in a charming island setting.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I took a stroll along the coast. The night was quiet, with only the sound of the waves and the distant hum of a fishing boat. Looking up at the stars, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this unique experience. Naoshima isn't just an art island; it's a place where art, nature, and community come together to create something truly magical.


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 Naoshima Fishing Park and Yokobou Park. I'm looking forward to a day of outdoor activities and perhaps catching my own dinner. I might also swing by the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop to stock up on snacks for the adventure. It’s all about balancing the artistic with the everyday here, and I’m loving every minute of it. Good night from Naoshima!

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to explore Naoshima Fishing Park and Yokobou Park. I'm hoping to catch my own dinner and maybe pick up some snacks at the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop. It's all about balancing art and everyday life here, and I'm loving every minute of it.

It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new perspectives and connecting with different cultures. Naoshima has certainly left its mark on me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As I head back to my cozy room at My Lodge Naoshima, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. It's amazing how a small island can offer so much in terms of art, culture, and natural beauty. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm already planning my next adventure.

Until then, good night from Naoshima!