Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today was all about diving deeper into the artistic soul of Naoshima. Lena and I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to experience the unique blend of art, culture, and nature that this island so effortlessly offers. I was particularly looking forward to seeing how the day's attractions would resonate with Lena, given her architectural background. It's always fascinating to see how different perspectives enrich our shared experiences.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Akaito Coffee. This cozy café, tucked away on a quiet street, was the perfect spot to fuel up for our artistic adventures. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the scent of old books, creating an inviting atmosphere. I opted for their Akaito blend, a smooth and full-bodied coffee that was exactly what I needed to start the day. Lena chose a latte, and we both enjoyed some freshly baked scones. It reminded me of the small cafes I used to frequent back in Foumban, where the sense of community was just as important as the coffee itself. We even picked up a couple of denim accessories, handcrafted by the co-owner – a nice little souvenir to remember this charming spot.


Discover Akaito Coffee on Naoshima Island, where art, literature, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee create an unforgettable experience.

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. I had read about this installation, which is based on Feng Shui principles, and was intrigued by the idea of a bath designed to harness the earth's energy. Unfortunately, when we arrived, we learned that the Cultural Melting Bath is only available on Sundays for public use, primarily for Benesse House guests. While we couldn't take a dip, we were able to appreciate the artistry and thought that went into its design. The setting itself was stunning, with the bath nestled along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. I made a mental note to try and book a stay at Benesse House sometime to fully experience this unique installation.


Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.

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

Next on our list was Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno. This quirky sculpture, made from recycled materials, is located near Uno Port. Although technically not on Naoshima itself, we decided to take a short ferry ride to Uno to see it. Lena was particularly impressed by the artist's ability to transform discarded items into a vibrant and thought-provoking piece of art. The sculpture, depicting a large black sea bream, is a commentary on marine conservation and the impact of waste on our oceans. It reminded me of some of the resourceful art projects I've seen in Berlin, where artists often repurpose materials to create meaningful statements. We grabbed some salmon and tuna onigiri before heading back to Naoshima.


Explore the artistic brilliance of Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, where recycled materials transform into stunning sculptures celebrating marine beauty.

Back on Naoshima, we headed towards the Benesse House area to find George Rickey’s Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82. This kinetic sculpture is located outdoors, with the Seto Inland Sea as its backdrop. The sculpture's gentle movements, powered by the wind, created a mesmerizing effect. Lena, with her architectural eye, appreciated the sculpture's clean lines and its harmonious integration with the natural environment. I found myself contemplating the sculpture's message, thinking about how art can capture the essence of time and movement.


Experience the captivating movement of George Rickey's Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, a kinetic sculpture blending art and nature on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

For lunch, we decided to try Raumen Tsumu, a local ramen shop that came highly recommended. This cozy eatery is popular with locals, and it wasn't hard to see why. The ramen was delicious and comforting. Lena opted for the tantanmen, a spicy minced meat ramen, while I tried the classic shoyu ramen. The friendly service and the unpretentious atmosphere made it a memorable experience. It reminded me of the simple, hearty meals my mother used to make back in Cameroon.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan with delicious ramen at Raumen Tsumu on Naoshima Island.

After lunch, we explored Mikazukishoten, a charming coffee stand that also sells local souvenirs. The owner was passionate about coffee and took the time to explain the different blends they offered. I opted for an espresso, while Lena chose a latte. We also browsed their selection of souvenirs, which included handmade pottery and art prints. It was a great place to pick up a few mementos of our trip. The owner told me that the coffee stand was started in partnership with Kinoshita-shoten in Setouchi-city, Okayama.


Discover the perfect blend of exquisite coffee and unique souvenirs at Mikazukishoten in Naoshima, a true gem for art and coffee lovers alike.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to RestaurantEN for dinner. This restaurant, known for its innovative sushi and fresh seafood, promised a culinary experience that would tantalize our taste buds. We opted for the sushi kaiseki course, which featured a variety of seasonal dishes. Each course was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. Lena was particularly impressed by the chef's skillful use of local ingredients. The meal was a perfect ending to a day filled with art and cultural immersion.


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

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, we took a leisurely stroll along the coastline, reflecting on the day's experiences. Naoshima had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. As we walked, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include a visit to Teshima Island to explore the Teshima Art Museum, Les Archives du Cœur, and La forêt des murmures.


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

Tomorrow promises more artistic adventures, and I can't wait to see what Teshima has in store for us. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Teshima Art Museum, which I've heard is an architectural marvel in itself. The day will end with a visit to Chikurin bar.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me. I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena, whose insights and perspectives always enrich our travels. As we prepare for our next adventure, I'm filled with a sense of anticipation, eager to discover what tomorrow will bring.