Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Naoshima's Hidden Corners

Another day, another layer of Naoshima revealed! Today was all about venturing off the beaten path and diving deeper into the island's artistic soul. It's incredible how much this small island packs in, and I was eager to see what hidden corners I could uncover. With Lena's artistic spirit in mind, I set out, hoping to find inspiration that I could share with her when I return to Berlin.

The weather cooperated beautifully, with a moderately chilly and breezy day, perfect for exploring. The temperature hovered around 13°C (56°F), making it ideal for wandering around without getting overheated. I started my day with a hearty breakfast at Little Plum. This cozy spot, housed in a renovated marine container, was just the ticket. I opted for their homemade dry curry, a flavorful and satisfying way to fuel up for a day of art exploration. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, a great way to ease into the day. It reminded me of some of the quirky cafes Lena and I love in Berlin, places that have a unique character and charm.


Experience the essence of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a serene setting.

Next on the agenda was the Seaside Gallery. Tucked away on the south side of the Benesse House Museum, this gallery, designed by Tadao Ando, offered stunning ocean views. The gallery itself is a work of art, with light pouring in through a large opening facing east. The space is long and narrow, perfectly complementing the natural topography. I spent a good hour there, soaking in the art and the breathtaking scenery. It's amazing how Ando's architecture seamlessly blends with nature, creating a harmonious and immersive experience. It reminded me of our hikes in Brandenburg, where the landscape itself becomes a part of the experience.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

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

After the Seaside Gallery, I made my way to the Honmura district to visit the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This former agricultural cooperative supermarket, transformed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, now serves as an information center and ticket seller for the Art House Project. The lounge itself is a calming space, and I picked up a few books and goods related to the project. More importantly, it was the starting point for my exploration of the Art House Project, a series of renovated traditional houses transformed into contemporary art spaces.


Experience the fusion of art and culture at Honmura Lounge & Archive, your gateway to Naoshima's vibrant creative scene and unique local souvenirs.

Each house offered a unique perspective, blending history with contemporary art. Kadoya, with its LED counters in water, was particularly mesmerizing. Go'o Shrine, where Hiroshi Sugimoto's glass staircase descends into the earth, was a thought-provoking experience. And Haisha, a former dentist's office reimagined by Shinro Ohtake, was simply mind-bending. As I wandered through these spaces, I couldn't help but think about how Lena would interpret them. Her graphic design background would bring a different lens to these installations, and I made a mental note to share my photos and experiences with her in detail.

Lunch was at Cin.na.mon, a stylish restaurant and bar near Miyanoura Port. The restaurant had a unique vibe, with traditional tatami rooms and a funky ambiance. I opted for their Naoshima seafood curry, which was packed with fresh, local ingredients. The curry was hearty and flavorful, a perfect midday pick-me-up. I made a mental note to try and recreate this dish back in Berlin; Lena would love it.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.

With a full stomach and a renewed sense of artistic inspiration, I decided to explore more of Honmura. The town itself is a work of art, with colorful buildings and hidden alleyways. I stumbled upon a cute little ice cream shop called Naoshima Gelato and enjoyed a scoop while admiring the sea view. It was a simple pleasure, but it added to the overall charm of the day.

As evening approached, I made my way to Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. This family-run restaurant, located near the bus stop, was a local favorite. I ordered their Umikko okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients. It was delicious and comforting, a perfect way to end a day of exploration. I learned that Okonomiyaki is a Japanese pancake containing a variety of ingredients, and it’s possible to take the dish to go. I enjoyed the warm atmosphere and the friendly service.


Savor authentic okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Umikko on Naoshima Island—where every bite celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.

Finally, to cap off the day, I decided to check out New Olympia, a sushi bar. Naoshima Island may be known for its art and culture during the day, but as the sun sets, a vibrant nightlife scene emerges for visitors to enjoy. From cozy bars serving up local sake and cocktails to lively nightclubs with live music and DJ sets, there is something for everyone looking to unwind after a day of exploring the island's artistic treasures. Whether you prefer a laid-back atmosphere to sip a drink and chat with locals or a more energetic setting to dance the night away, Naoshima Island's nightlife has it all. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the ambiance was perfect for a solo traveler. It was a great way to reflect on the day's experiences and to prepare for tomorrow's adventures.


Experience the essence of Japanese culinary art at New Olympia, Naoshima's premier sushi restaurant, where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Chinu, the Black Sea Bream of Uno, and the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. I'm also looking forward to trying Yayoda for breakfast, Tee's DELI GROCERY for lunch, and EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 for dinner. And of course, I'll be sure to check out the Naoshima Shop Umihotaru for some souvenirs.

Today was a reminder that art isn't just confined to museums and galleries. It's woven into the fabric of Naoshima, from its architecture to its food to its people. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this unique island and to share my experiences with you all. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

It’s funny, being here reminds me a lot of when Lena and I first moved to Berlin. We spent so much time just wandering around, discovering hidden cafes and galleries. It’s that same sense of exploration and discovery that I’m feeling here on Naoshima. And like Berlin, Naoshima has a way of making you feel like you’re a part of something bigger, something more meaningful. It’s a feeling that I’ll carry with me long after I leave this island.

I’m particularly excited about visiting the Cultural Melting Bath tomorrow. The idea of art that is interactive and participatory is something that really resonates with me. It reminds me of some of the projects Lena has worked on, where she’s created installations that invite people to touch, to explore, to become a part of the artwork itself. It’s that kind of immersive experience that I find most compelling, and I’m eager to see how it’s manifested here on Naoshima.

And then there’s the food. I’m already looking forward to trying Yayoda for breakfast. I’ve heard they have some amazing seafood dishes, and I’m always up for trying new things. Food, for me, is such an integral part of travel. It’s not just about sustenance; it’s about experiencing the local culture, about connecting with the people and the place. And Naoshima, with its focus on fresh, local ingredients, seems to have a lot to offer in that regard.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge. Tomorrow is another day of art, exploration, and discovery. And I can't wait to share it with you all! I think I need to remember to get sunscreen tomorrow, I seem to have forgotten it.