Art and Adventure on Naoshima Island: A Cultural Journey with Friends

A Day Immersed in Art and Tradition

Today was a day dedicated to delving deeper into the artistic soul of Naoshima, particularly in the charming Honmura district. It was a blend of architectural marvels, interactive art, and local flavors that truly captured the essence of this unique island. I was excited to explore more of what Naoshima had to offer, and today certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Little Plum, a cozy café near the ferry terminal. Hans and I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal of toast and coffee, fueling up for the day's adventures. The café's laid-back atmosphere was the perfect start to a day of exploration. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Anse Boileau, Seychelles, where life moves at a slower pace, and every conversation feels like a warm embrace.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to the Ando Museum. Tucked away in a traditional wooden house in Honmura, the museum is a tribute to the renowned architect Tadao Ando and his relationship with Naoshima. Stepping inside was like entering a different world, where the old and the new seamlessly intertwined. The exposed concrete walls juxtaposed against the traditional wooden structure created a striking contrast, a signature element of Ando's architectural style. The museum showcased photographs, sketches, and models of Ando's projects, providing a fascinating insight into his creative process and his impact on the island's landscape.


Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Art is not about everything looking the same; it is about celebrating our differences.

Wandering through the exhibits, I was struck by Ando's ability to blend his modern designs with the existing environment, preserving the island's natural beauty while adding a contemporary touch. It was a testament to his vision and his deep respect for the island's history and culture. Hans, with his software developer's mind, was particularly fascinated by the structural elements and the way Ando played with light and space. He kept pointing out the clever use of geometry and how it all came together to create such a harmonious space.

Leaving the Ando Museum, we continued our exploration of Honmura, strolling through the narrow streets lined with traditional houses. The village exuded a sense of tranquility, a peaceful escape from the bustling city life we were accustomed to back in Bonn. We popped into the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop to grab some water and snacks, a quick and convenient stop before our next adventure. It's funny how even a simple convenience store can feel unique in a place like Naoshima, with its own local charm and quirky offerings.


Discover convenience and comfort at 7-Eleven Naoshima, your go-to spot for snacks, essentials, and an ATM on the beautiful Naoshima Island.

For lunch, we ventured to Raumen Tsumu, a local ramen shop known for its comforting and authentic dishes. The small, family-run restaurant was filled with locals, a sure sign of its quality and popularity. I opted for the classic ramen, while Hans tried the udon curry. Both dishes were delicious, hearty, and satisfying, a perfect midday pick-me-up. The warm broth and flavorful noodles reminded me of my mother's cooking back home, simple yet incredibly comforting.


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

Our next stop was the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, an art installation and functioning public bathhouse designed by artist Shinro Ohtake. The exterior of the building was a riot of colors and textures, a whimsical collage of tiles, mosaics, and found objects. It was like stepping into a surreal dream, a world where art and everyday life merged seamlessly. Inside, the bathhouse was just as unique, with elaborate decorations and quirky details that made the experience truly unforgettable.


Experience the unique blend of relaxation and art at Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, a must-visit destination for tranquility and cultural immersion.

Although I was initially hesitant to take a bath in a public setting, I decided to embrace the experience and immerse myself in the art. Stripping down and stepping into the warm water, surrounded by the vibrant colors and playful designs, was surprisingly liberating. It was a unique way to connect with the local culture and experience art in a truly interactive way. Hans, ever the adventurer, was completely in his element, chatting with the locals and admiring the intricate details of the bathhouse. He even bought a commemorative towel as a souvenir.

After our refreshing bath, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This unique space serves as an information center, ticket vendor for the Art House Project, and a lounge, offering a perfect spot to relax and soak in the artistic atmosphere of Honmura. We enjoyed a couple of local beers while browsing the books and art-related merchandise, a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Explore art, culture, and local insights at Honmura Lounge & Archive, Naoshima's vibrant tourist information hub.

As evening approached, we made our way to Gumbo Hut Shioya for dinner. This quirky restaurant, run by a friendly owner named Buddy, serves authentic Cajun Creole cuisine, a surprising find on a remote Japanese island. The gumbo was delicious, hearty, and full of flavor, a comforting taste of home away from home. Buddy's warm hospitality and the restaurant's retro vibe created a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. It was a reminder that no matter where you are in the world, good food and good company can always bring people together.


Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at Gumbo Hut Shioya on Naoshima Island - where flavor meets art in an unforgettable dining adventure.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had learned about Naoshima's art, culture, and community. From the architectural brilliance of Tadao Ando to the interactive art of Shinro Ohtake and the surprising flavors of Cajun cuisine, Naoshima had truly captivated my senses and opened my mind. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection, a testament to the power of art to transform and enrich our lives.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the iconic pumpkin sculptures by Yayoi Kusama, a must-see attraction on Naoshima. I'm excited to see these whimsical creations up close and learn more about the artist behind them. It's another day of art and adventure on this incredible island, and I can't wait to see what awaits us.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Naoshima had exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty that I would cherish forever. It was a reminder that the world is full of hidden gems, waiting to be discovered, and that travel is the best way to open our minds and hearts to new experiences.