Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima

A Day of Discovery on Naoshima

Today, Lena and I delved deeper into the artistic heart of Naoshima, exploring its hidden corners and savoring its unique atmosphere. It was a day filled with unexpected discoveries, tranquil moments, and a deeper appreciation for the island's harmonious blend of art and nature.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at maimai. The cafe was charming, with a laid-back ambiance that perfectly matched the island's vibe. I opted for their famous fish burger, made with fresh yellowtail, while Lena enjoyed a classic Japanese breakfast set. The outdoor terrace was the perfect spot to start our day, with gentle music playing in the background and a refreshing breeze coming off the sea. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Foumban, where life moves at a slower pace and every meal is an opportunity to connect with the community.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the Seaside Gallery. The gallery itself is a work of art, designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Its long, narrow space is bathed in natural light, creating an ethereal atmosphere that enhances the artwork on display. The exhibits were thought-provoking, blending seamlessly with the coastal surroundings. Lena, with her architectural background, was particularly fascinated by the way Ando integrated the building with the landscape. I found myself drawn to the outdoor sculptures, which seemed to engage in a silent dialogue with the sea and sky. I was reminded of how art can transform a space, much like how Lena transforms houses into homes with her architectural designs. It's inspiring to see how creativity can breathe new life into the mundane.


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.

Next on our itinerary was the Walking Ark, an open-air museum that seamlessly blends art and nature. As we wandered through the sculptures, we were struck by the way the artists had used the natural environment as a canvas, creating pieces that seemed to emerge organically from the landscape. Lena was particularly taken with one sculpture that resembled a giant bird in flight, its wings spread wide against the backdrop of the sea. For me, the experience was a reminder of the importance of perspective. Just as the sculptures invited us to see the world in new ways, so too does travel broaden our understanding of different cultures and ways of life. It's a lesson I try to carry with me in all my adventures, always seeking to see the world through new eyes.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.
Our final stop of the afternoon was the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This building, once a supermarket, now serves as an information center and a gathering place for art enthusiasts. We purchased our tickets for the Art House Project here and spent some time browsing the collection of art books and local crafts. The lounge itself was a haven of tranquility, with comfortable seating and a calming atmosphere. It was a welcome respite from the heat and the crowds, and we took the opportunity to relax and reflect on our experiences so far. I picked up a small, handcrafted wooden sculpture as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of our time on Naoshima. Lena bought a book on Tadao Ando's architecture, eager to delve deeper into his design philosophy.


Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
As evening approached, our thoughts turned to dinner. We decided to try Cin.na.mon, a stylish restaurant near Miyanoura Port. The restaurant is known for its delicious curried seafood, and we were eager to sample their culinary creations. The atmosphere was funky and inviting, with traditional tatami rooms and a lively bar area. I ordered the Naoshima seafood curry, while Lena opted for the nanban chili mayo fried chicken. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, showcasing the freshest local ingredients. The curry was rich and aromatic, with a perfect balance of spice and creaminess. Lena raved about her chicken, praising its crispy texture and flavorful marinade. It was probably one of the best meals we've had so far on this trip. The cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home, and we lingered over our meal, savoring every bite and enjoying each other's company.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.
To cap off our day, we ventured to Naoshima Yokocho, a local izakaya known for its casual Japanese dinners and extensive selection of drinks. The bar was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to unwind and enjoy the evening. I sampled some local sake, while Lena tried a refreshing shochu cocktail. We shared a plate of yakitori and some crispy gyoza, enjoying the lively atmosphere and the friendly banter of the other patrons. It was a far cry from the sophisticated bars of Berlin, but it had a charm all its own. It reminded me of the importance of embracing the local culture, of stepping outside our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in new experiences. It's in these moments that we truly connect with the places we visit, forging memories that will last a lifetime.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Naoshima Yokocho, an izakaya that captures the essence of Naoshima's culinary culture amidst stunning art and nature.
As we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the night air was filled with the sounds of crickets and the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. The island was quiet and peaceful, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. We reflected on the day's adventures, marveling at the beauty and tranquility of Naoshima. It's a place that has captured our hearts, a place where art and nature coexist in perfect harmony. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we'll explore more of the island's hidden gems and discover new artistic treasures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima, Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, and George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82. And of course, sample more of the local cuisine.


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

The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.

Naoshima has a way of slowing you down, of encouraging you to appreciate the simple things in life. It's a place where you can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself and with nature. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that art has the power to transform our lives in profound ways. As we drifted off to sleep, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this magical island. It's a journey that I'll cherish forever, a reminder that life is best lived when we embrace the unknown and open ourselves to new experiences.