Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Fond Farewell

As my two-week art pilgrimage to Naoshima Island draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I've undertaken. From the thought-provoking installations at the Chichu Art Museum to the serene beauty of the Lee Ufan Museum, every corner of this island has offered a new perspective on art and life. Today, I embraced the final day with a mix of eagerness and a touch of melancholy, knowing that soon I'd be trading the tranquil island vibes for the bustling streets of Berlin.


The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ebisukamo. I was keen to try their traditional Japanese breakfast, and it didn't disappoint. The miso soup was particularly comforting, filled with local barnacle, and the seasonal fish was incredibly fresh. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Remembering Lena's love for authentic Japanese cuisine, I wished she could have been here to share this experience with me. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Berlin; perhaps a new culinary adventure for us both!


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Ebisukamo on Naoshima Island—where local flavors meet serene beauty.

With a full stomach and a sense of purpose, I set out to visit the Honmura Lounge & Archive. It was a beautiful morning, with the sun casting a golden glow over the island. As I strolled through the quaint streets of Honmura, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The Honmura Lounge & Archive is a treasure trove of information about the Art House Project. It's a great starting point for anyone wanting to delve deeper into the art scene here. I spent a good hour browsing through the exhibits, learning about the artists and the history of the project. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing insights and recommendations that enriched my understanding of the art on display.


Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

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

Next on my list was Danyama, a scenic observation deck offering panoramic views of the island and the Seto Inland Sea. The walk up to Danyama was invigorating. As I reached the summit, I was rewarded with breathtaking vistas. The sea sparkled in the sunlight, and the surrounding islands looked like emerald jewels scattered across the water. It was a perfect spot to reflect on my time on Naoshima and to soak in the natural beauty of the island. I learned that Danyama also irrigates Teshima's fields, where fruits like lemons and strawberries are grown. That was interesting to know, considering Teshima suffered from illegal waste dumping in the 70s and has since been working to revive its ecosystem.


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

For lunch, I ventured to Little Plum. Their menu featured a delightful array of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for a pasta dish with seafood, which was absolutely divine. The flavors were so vibrant and the seafood was cooked to perfection. It was a culinary experience that I won't soon forget. It's interesting to know that Little Plum has been taken over by the owner of MY LODGE, where I've been staying. I'm happy the name has been retained and that the restaurant continues to operate.


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

As the afternoon wore on, I decided to unwind with a visit to Cin.na.mon, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative cocktails. I settled in with a refreshing drink, savoring the last moments of my island getaway. The bar had a unique charm, blending traditional Japanese elements with a modern twist. I chatted with some of the locals, learning about their lives and experiences on the island. It was a truly immersive cultural experience.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Cin.na.mon, a cozy cafe in Naoshima offering fresh, local cuisine and a delightful dining experience.

For my final dinner on Naoshima, I chose Okonomiyaki Umikko, wanting to try some authentic Japanese comfort food. The okonomiyaki was delicious, packed with a variety of ingredients and cooked to perfection. It was the perfect way to end my culinary journey on the island. I made sure to ask for a vegan okonomiyaki, and the restaurant happily obliged. It's great to see that they understand what vegan means and are accommodating to different dietary needs. I learned that it's possible to take the okonomiyaki to go, but I decided to savor it at the restaurant.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I've had on Naoshima Island. It's been a journey of artistic discovery, cultural immersion, and personal reflection. I've learned so much about myself and the world around me. I leave this island with a renewed sense of inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the power of art.


Naoshima has a fascinating history. In the 20th century, smelting powered its economic development, but the island also retained traditional cultural elements. Over the last few decades, it has become a mecca for contemporary art and architecture lovers. I'm glad I got to experience this unique blend of history and modernity.


Tomorrow, I'll be heading back to Berlin, eager to share my stories and experiences with Lena. I know she'll be excited to hear all about my adventures, and I can't wait to plan our next trip together. Until then, farewell Naoshima, and thank you for the memories.


Reflecting on my time here, I realize that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place where art, nature, and culture come together to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It's a place that will stay with me long after I've left its shores. I'm already looking forward to the day when I can return and explore more of its hidden gems.