Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima

A Final Day of Discovery

As our ten-day artistic immersion on Naoshima Island draws to a close, Lena and I wanted to soak up every last drop of its unique charm. Today wasn't about ticking off more museums, but rather about embracing the island's quieter, more reflective side. We decided to venture off the beaten path, exploring some of the lesser-known spots and savoring the local flavors one last time.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo, a cozy little spot near the Art House Project. It felt like stepping into someone's home, with a friendly couple running the place. Lena opted for the vegan set, while I went for a traditional Japanese breakfast. As we sipped our coffee, we chatted with the owners, who shared stories about island life and their passion for serving homemade, locally sourced food. It was the perfect start to a day focused on authentic experiences.


Discover Café Ippo in Naoshima: A delightful fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and warm hospitality awaits you in this charming café.

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

After breakfast, we set off towards Kasaneiwa, a spot recommended by one of the locals we met. It involved a bit of a climb, but the view from the top was worth every step. The Seto Inland Sea stretched out before us, dotted with tiny islands, and the air was fresh and invigorating. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to appreciate the natural beauty that complements Naoshima's artistic landscape.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Kasaneiwa, a captivating landmark in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

Next on our list was Tsunosaki, a scenic point on the island's coast. The walk there was just as rewarding, with lush greenery and glimpses of the sea along the way. When we arrived, we were greeted by panoramic vistas of the Seto Inland Sea. Lena, ever the architect, was captivated by the way the natural elements harmonized with the subtle artistic interventions along the coastline. We spent some time simply sitting there, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and reflecting on our time on Naoshima. I even managed to capture a few stunning photos, though no picture could truly do justice to the experience.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Tsunosaki, where stunning coastal views meet contemporary art in the heart of Naoshima.

For lunch, we headed to Aisunao in the Honmura district. This restaurant is set in a renovated traditional house, instantly charming us. Lena was thrilled to find a wide array of vegan options, and I enjoyed a flavorful dish featuring organically grown rice and local vegetables. The meal was delicious and healthy, a perfect reflection of the island's commitment to sustainability and well-being. We chatted about the amazing meals we have had so far, and how this has been a great experience to broaden our horizon when it comes to vegan and vegetarian dishes – something we want to try more back home in Berlin.


Discover Aisunao in Naoshima: Delight in creative vegan dishes amidst Japan's stunning art island.

After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves further in the local culture by visiting the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This space, once an agricultural cooperative supermarket, now serves as an information center for the Art House Project. We browsed through books and materials about the artists and architects involved in the project, gaining a deeper understanding of the island's artistic evolution. Lena picked up a few postcards as souvenirs, while I was fascinated by the architectural designs and the way they integrated with the traditional buildings of Honmura. It was interesting to learn about the history of the building itself and its transformation into a community hub.


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

Before dinner, we couldn't resist a bit of souvenir shopping at Naoshima Shop Umihotaru. This wasn't just any shop; it was a place that embodied the island's artistic spirit. We found unique, handmade items that reflected Naoshima's commitment to creativity and sustainability. Lena bought a beautiful ceramic bowl, while I picked up a handcrafted wooden sculpture. It was a perfect way to support local artisans and take a piece of Naoshima's art scene back home with us. As we browsed, we enjoyed the cafe's relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.


Experience the artistic spirit of Naoshima at Shop Umihotaru, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in a charming cafe setting.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Luke's Table for our final dinner on the island. The restaurant, located at My Lodge Naoshima where we stayed, offered stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. The menu featured Setouchi slow food, with dishes made from local ingredients and traditional recipes. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the past ten days. The meal was a perfect blend of Japanese and French-inspired cuisine, a fitting end to our culinary adventures on Naoshima.


Discover Luke's Table: A culinary haven on Naoshima offering exquisite Italian dishes and delightful breakfast options in an artistic paradise.


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

Reflecting on our time here, I realized that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place where art, nature, and community intertwine to create a truly unique experience. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down, appreciate the beauty around you, and connect with the local culture.

Tomorrow, we head back to the mainland, our hearts full of memories and inspiration. While this chapter of our journey comes to an end, I know that the spirit of Naoshima will stay with us long after we leave. I am already looking forward to integrating some of the ideas and concepts we have seen here into my everyday life back in Berlin. Perhaps I will start with a new photo project, inspired by the many art pieces here. Or maybe Lena and I will start volunteering at a local community garden, inspired by the local sourcing of ingredients on the island. Either way, I am thankful for the experience, and looking forward to our next adventure together!