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

Whispers of the Past, Echoes of Art

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a quiet immersion into the soul of Naoshima. Leaving behind the grand museums for a day, Hans and I, along with our friends, ventured into the heart of Honmura, a charming village where art peeks out from the corners of everyday life. It’s a different pace here, a chance to connect with the island on a more intimate level, reminiscent of the close-knit community I grew up in back in Anse Boileau.

Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast at Chikurin. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for the adventures ahead. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Japanese fare were just what we needed to fuel our exploration of the Art House Project. It reminded me of the simple, yet flavorful breakfasts my mother used to make back in Seychelles, a comforting start to the day.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Chikurin in Naoshima, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy izakaya setting.

The Art House Project is a collection of abandoned houses, temples, and even a shrine, transformed into unique art installations scattered throughout the Honmura district. It’s an ingenious concept, breathing new life into forgotten spaces and inviting visitors to wander through the village, encountering art in the most unexpected places. The winter air was crisp, carrying the scent of the sea and woodsmoke, as we set off to discover these hidden gems. It was a welcome change from the cold air back in Bonn, but I still missed the warm tropical breezes of my home.

Our first stop was Kadoya, the very first house to be transformed as part of the Art House Project. This 200-year-old building has been lovingly restored, retaining its traditional charm while housing modern art within its walls. The main artwork, Tatsuo Miyajima's 'Sea of Time '98,' captivated me. It features digital counters submerged in water, each blinking at its own pace, symbolizing the unique rhythm of human life. It was a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of time and existence, a theme that often occupies my thoughts.


Explore the harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Naoshima's Art House Project: Kadoya.

Art doesn't have to be confined to museums; it can be woven into the fabric of everyday life, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Wandering through Honmura between the art houses, I felt a sense of connection to the islanders, seeing their daily lives unfold around us. Laundry hung out to dry, children played in the streets, and the aroma of home-cooked meals wafted from open windows. It was a reminder that art isn't separate from life; it's an integral part of it.

Next, we visited Go'o Shrine, a Shinto shrine dating back to the Edo period that has been given a contemporary makeover by artist Hiroshi Sugimoto. The artist rebuilt the shrine in the style of ancient shrines, but with modern twists. One of the most striking features is a glass staircase that connects the underground chamber to the heavens, symbolizing the link between the earthly and spiritual realms. The cold stone and the stark glass created a powerful juxtaposition, prompting contemplation on the nature of faith and tradition. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a chance to connect with something larger than myself.


Discover the serene Art House Project: Go'o Shrine in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets traditional Shinto spirituality in a breathtaking setting.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Issen, a delightful Japanese restaurant located within the Benesse House Museum area. We savored a delicious and artfully presented lunch, a perfect complement to our morning of artistic exploration. The restaurant offered seasonal meals, featuring seafood fresh from the Inland Sea. Reminded me of how important fresh seafood was in the Seychelles cuisine, and how much I miss it. After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area, enjoying the winter sunshine and the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.


Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine at Issen on Naoshima Island—where art meets culinary excellence in every bite.

In the afternoon, we decided to explore Shimacoya, a unique café and variety store housed in a renovated traditional Japanese house. It's more than just a place to grab a coffee; it's a guest house, a used book store, and a treasure trove of local crafts and goods. I couldn't resist browsing through the shelves of used books, discovering a few hidden gems in both Japanese and English. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we spent a delightful hour chatting with the friendly staff and sipping on locally sourced beverages. It felt like stepping back in time, a reminder of the simpler pleasures in life.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

As evening approached, we made our way to Naoshima Yokocho, a lively izakaya where we sampled local delicacies and enjoyed the convivial atmosphere. Izakayas are Japanese-style pubs, offering a variety of small dishes and drinks. We shared plates of grilled seafood, fried chicken, and pickled vegetables, washing it all down with local sake. The laughter and chatter of the other patrons filled the air, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploration, a taste of Naoshima's vibrant nightlife.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Naoshima Yokocho, an izakaya that captures the essence of Naoshima's culinary culture amidst stunning art and nature.

Finally, for dinner, we indulged in a delicious meal at Yuunagi, a restaurant specializing in dishes made with flounder cultivated in Naoshima. The restaurant is conveniently located near the port, and is very well known for its fresh seafood dishes. The flounder was cooked to perfection, and the meal was a delightful culmination of the day's culinary adventures. The friendly atmosphere and the delicious food made it a memorable dining experience.


Discover Yuunagi: A Seafood Haven on Naoshima Island Offering Authentic Japanese Teishoku Cuisine.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by the way Naoshima seamlessly blends art, culture, and everyday life. The Art House Project is a testament to the island's commitment to revitalizing its community through art, inviting visitors to engage with the island on a deeper level. It's a reminder that art isn't just something to be admired in a museum; it's something to be lived and experienced.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Ando Museum and the 'Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu,' eager to discover more of the island's hidden treasures. But for tonight, I'll drift off to sleep with the echoes of Honmura's whispers in my ears, dreaming of art and island life.

I'm so glad I chose to come to Naoshima with my friends, it's so much fun to share these experiences with them. Hans is also having a great time, and he's been taking lots of photos to remember this trip.

It's been a wonderful trip so far, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.