Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima

First Impressions: Naoshima's Artistic Embrace

Naoshima Island, a small dot in the Seto Inland Sea, has always held a mythical allure for me. As a software engineer from Berlin, with Cameroonian roots, I often find myself drawn to places where art and nature intertwine. Today, Lena and I finally set foot on this legendary island, ready to immerse ourselves in its unique blend of contemporary art and serene landscapes. I was particularly excited, having read so much about the museums and installations here. It felt like stepping into a living canvas.

Our journey began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. Nestled in a quaint corner, this charming cafe offered a delightful start to our day. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the gentle sea breeze, creating a perfect ambiance. Lena opted for the seasonal special, a vibrant plate of local delicacies, while I savored their renowned scones. It was the perfect fuel for a day of artistic exploration.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

Benesse House Museum: Where Art Meets Accommodation

Our first stop was the Benesse House Museum. The museum is part of the Benesse Art Site, a project aimed at revitalizing the island through art and nature. The integration of art within a hotel setting was a novel concept that immediately appealed to us. As we wandered through the museum's corridors, we encountered thought-provoking installations and paintings that seemed to converse with the surrounding landscape. What struck me most was the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, blurring the lines between art and reality.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

The museum, designed by Tadao Ando, is more than just a space to display art; it's an integral part of the artistic experience. The architecture itself is a work of art, with its clean lines, natural light, and harmonious integration with the environment. It was fascinating to see how Ando's design amplified the impact of the artworks, creating a truly immersive experience.

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

One of my favorite pieces was a large-scale sculpture that seemed to defy gravity, suspended in mid-air against the backdrop of the sea. Lena was particularly captivated by a series of paintings that explored the themes of identity and displacement, resonating with her own experiences as an architect navigating a globalized world. We spent hours wandering through the museum, each discovery sparking new conversations and reflections.

Chichu Art Museum: Subterranean Wonders

Next on our itinerary was the Chichu Art Museum, an underground marvel that promised a unique encounter with art. As we descended into the earth, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. The museum, also designed by Tadao Ando, is built directly into a hillside, minimizing its impact on the landscape. The concept of an underground museum was intriguing, and I was eager to see how it would transform the art viewing experience.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

The Chichu Art Museum is home to a small but impressive collection of works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Monet's Water Lilies were a revelation, bathed in natural light that filtered through the museum's carefully designed openings. The way the light interacted with the paintings, changing their appearance throughout the day, was mesmerizing. It was as if the artworks were alive, breathing with the rhythm of the sun.

James Turrell's installations were equally captivating, playing with light and space in ways that challenged my perception. One particular piece, Open Sky, invited us to lie on our backs and gaze at the sky through a square opening in the ceiling. As we watched the clouds drift by, the boundaries between art and nature dissolved, creating a sense of infinite possibility. Photography wasn't allowed, which was a shame, but it also meant we were fully present in the moment.

Walter De Maria's Time/Timeless/No Time, a massive installation consisting of a giant sphere and geometric forms, was a powerful statement on the nature of time and existence. The sheer scale of the work, combined with the museum's serene atmosphere, created a profound sense of awe.

After emerging from the Chichu Art Museum, we stopped for a quick lunch at Little Plum. This cafe-bar, housed in a renovated marine container, had a quirky and inviting atmosphere. I opted for the homemade dry curry, while Lena chose a refreshing salad. It was a perfect spot to recharge before our final museum visit of the day.


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

Lee Ufan Museum: A Dialogue with Stillness

Our last stop was the Lee Ufan Museum, dedicated to the minimalist art of Korean artist Lee Ufan. This museum, yet another masterpiece by Tadao Ando, offered a tranquil space for contemplation and reflection. Lee Ufan's works, characterized by their simplicity and restraint, invited us to slow down and engage with the present moment.


Explore the serene Lee Ufan Museum in Naoshima, where modern art meets nature in a harmonious blend of minimalism and tranquility.

The museum's semi-underground structure, nestled in a gentle valley, created a sense of harmony between art, architecture, and nature. As we wandered through the galleries, we encountered paintings and sculptures that seemed to embody the essence of stillness. Lee Ufan's art resonated with my own appreciation for simplicity and mindfulness, reminding me of the importance of finding peace in a world often filled with chaos.

One of the most striking pieces was a sculpture consisting of a single stone and a steel plate, placed in careful relation to each other. The work invited us to consider the relationship between nature and artifice, prompting a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. Lena found herself drawn to Lee Ufan's paintings, which explored the themes of emptiness and fullness through subtle brushstrokes and muted colors.

Evening Reflections and Culinary Delights

As the sun began to set, we made our way to New Olympia for dinner. This local sushi restaurant, run by a father-son duo, offered a delightful culinary experience. The cozy ambiance of the old shop added character to the dining experience. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the service was warm and welcoming. We savored each bite, reflecting on the day's artistic adventures.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

After dinner, we decided to unwind at Bar SARU, the only bar on Naoshima that stays open late. The bar had a homely atmosphere, and we enjoyed socializing with other travelers over glasses of Naoshima beer. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, culture, and exploration.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.

As we sipped our drinks, we reminisced about the incredible art we had seen and the unique experiences we had shared. Naoshima Island had exceeded all our expectations, offering a sanctuary for art lovers and a testament to the power of creativity. I was particularly impressed by the architecture. Tadao Ando's work, in particular, stood out.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Art House Project in the Honmura district, including Minamidera, Kadoya, and Go'o Shrine. I am eager to see how these installations interact with the traditional Japanese architecture of the village.

Naoshima has proven to be a place where art is not confined to museum walls, but permeates every aspect of life. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a unique and inspiring destination. It's a reminder that art can transform not only spaces but also the way we perceive the world around us. As a software engineer, I often deal with the logical and structured world of coding, but Naoshima has reignited my passion for the creative and the unexpected. It's a balance I hope to carry with me long after we leave this enchanting island.

It's been a truly enriching experience, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Naoshima!

I almost forgot, I managed to buy a small Lee Ufan print at the museum shop, which I will hang in my Berlin apartment to remind me of this special trip.