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

Finding Peace and Wonder in Unexpected Corners

Today on Naoshima, I discovered that the island's charm lies not only in its renowned museums but also in the quiet corners where art and spirituality intertwine. It was a day of gentle exploration, filled with moments of reflection and unexpected delights.

Our day began with a comforting breakfast at Ishii Shouten. The aroma of freshly made udon filled the air, promising a hearty start. I opted for the beef udon, and Hans chose the classic *kake* udon. Each slurp was a warm embrace, the perfect fuel for our day's adventures. It reminded me of the simple, comforting meals my grandmother used to make back in Anse Boileau, Seychelles. There's something about a good bowl of noodles that just nourishes the soul.


Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.

With our bellies full, we set off to find Gokurakuji Temple. Tucked away from the main tourist routes, the temple exuded an aura of tranquility. The temple's history dates back centuries. As we wandered through the grounds, the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft chanting from within the main hall created a meditative atmosphere. I lit a stick of incense, offering a silent prayer for my family back home and for continued inspiration on this journey. Hans, ever the pragmatist, admired the intricate woodwork of the temple buildings, pointing out the subtle details that spoke of skilled craftsmanship and dedication.


Discover the serene beauty of Gokurakuji Temple in Naoshima, a peaceful Buddhist sanctuary steeped in history and surrounded by nature's tranquility.

Art doesn't have to be loud to be profound; sometimes, the most impactful experiences are found in the quietest moments.

Our next destination was the Walking Ark, an intriguing sculpture that I'd read about. Finding it involved a bit of a trek, but the reward was well worth the effort. Perched on a hillside, the ark-like structure seemed to straddle the line between art and architecture. Its stark white form stood in contrast to the surrounding landscape, inviting contemplation. It reminded me of Noah's Ark, seemingly walking towards Fukushima Prefecture, a reminder of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

The Walking Ark was created by Keisuke Yamaguchi as a reminder to visitors of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope. As I stood there, gazing at the ark against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the people of Japan and their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima. This restaurant is known for it's exceptional and authentic Udon. We both had the Niku Udon (meat udon) which was delicious. It was the perfect respite before continuing our explorations.


Experience authentic Japanese udon noodles at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

In the late afternoon, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at kokochi. This charming shop offered a curated selection of local crafts and artisanal goods. I picked up a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, a memento of our time on Naoshima. Hans found a stylish tenugui (Japanese hand towel) with a traditional design, a practical yet elegant souvenir.


Discover the creative fusion of art and cuisine at Café Kokochi on Naoshima Island, where every bite tells a story.

As dusk approached, we sought refuge at Little Plum, a cozy bar that promised a taste of local nightlife. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. We savored a couple of local beers, chatting with fellow travelers and sharing stories of our adventures. The owner of My Lodge Naoshima also runs this bar and has kept the name, but changed the menu.


Discover the delightful culinary offerings of Little Plum on Naoshima Island, where local flavors meet a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Dinner at Nagomi was a fitting end to our day. This restaurant is located within the Naoshima welfare center. The restaurant specializes in casual dining and set meals. The cozy interiors and friendly staff made us feel right at home. I enjoyed a seasonal fish dish, while Hans savored a hearty portion of *tonkatsu* (pork cutlet). It was a comforting, satisfying meal that left us feeling content and grateful for the experiences of the day.


Discover Nagomi in Naoshima - where authentic Japanese dining meets community spirit in a cozy setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Tsunosaki and immerse ourselves in the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. I'm particularly excited about the latter, as it promises a unique blend of art and cultural immersion.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded that travel is not just about ticking off famous landmarks but also about embracing the unexpected and finding beauty in the everyday. Naoshima has a way of surprising you, of revealing hidden gems in the most unassuming places. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires the spirit, and I'm so grateful to be sharing this journey with Hans.

I am looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings!