Family Adventure to the Artistic Wonders of Naoshima Island

Honmura's Artistic Heart

Today, Naoshima revealed another layer of its artistic soul as we explored the Honmura district. Away from the grand museums, Honmura offers a more intimate encounter with art, blending seamlessly into the everyday life of the island. It’s a reminder that art isn’t confined to pristine galleries but thrives within the community itself.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. This charming café, tucked away in a narrow alley near the Ando Museum, is known for its international cuisine with a Japanese twist. I opted for the seasonal special lunch set, which featured locally sourced ingredients. The menu was crafted by a registered dietitian, ensuring a healthy and visually appealing meal. Luka was thrilled with his happy scones, and Ana enjoyed a flavorful vegetable curry. It was a perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


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

The Ando Museum: A Master's Retrospective

Our first stop was the Ando Museum, a tribute to the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The museum itself is a work of art, housed in a renovated 100-year-old traditional wooden house. From the outside, it blends seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood, but inside, it reveals Ando's signature concrete and light aesthetic.


Explore the Ando Museum in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets innovative architectural design amidst serene natural beauty.

The contrast between the traditional exterior and the modern interior is striking. Inside, we found a labyrinth of concrete walls, hidden passages, and unexpected openings that showcase Ando's masterful interplay of light and shadow. The museum is dedicated to Ando's work and philosophy, showcasing his minimalist yet thought-provoking design principles.

The details are not the details. They make the design.

As a software engineer, I appreciate the precision and attention to detail in Ando's work. It’s inspiring to see how he transforms simple materials into spaces that evoke emotion and contemplation. Ana, with her architect's eye, was particularly fascinated by the way Ando integrated the concrete structure within the existing wooden framework, preserving the charm of the historic building while creating something entirely new.

Seaside Gallery: Art by the Ocean

Next, we headed to the Seaside Gallery, a modern art museum designed by Tadao Ando. Situated in a terraced plaza overlooking the ocean, the gallery offers a unique blend of art and nature. The long, narrow layout follows the natural topography, allowing ample light to flood through its large east-facing opening.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

The gallery features contemporary works by both local and international artists, all themed around the sea and wind. As we wandered through the exhibits, the serene ambiance of the seaside enhanced the experience, making each artwork resonate with the natural beauty of its environment. Luka was particularly drawn to the outdoor sculptures, which dotted the landscape and merged seamlessly with the coastal scenery.

The August sun was warm, but a gentle breeze kept us comfortable as we strolled along the coast. The views of the Seto Inland Sea were breathtaking, and the art seemed to amplify the natural beauty of the surroundings. It was a perfect example of how art and nature can coexist in harmony, creating a truly immersive experience.

Art House Project: Haisha – A Dentist's Dream

Our final attraction of the day was the Art House Project: Haisha, a former dentist's home and office transformed into a gallery by artist Shinro Ohtake. This was perhaps the most unconventional and intriguing experience of the day.


Experience the captivating blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Art House Project: Haisha on Naoshima Island.

Haisha, meaning dentist, is an eclectic mix of stylistic elements, appearing in some places like a sculpture, in others like a painting, and in still others like a collage or scrapbook. The house incorporates an array of repurposed materials, including rusted tin sheets, wooden panels, and old signboards, creating a chaotic yet meticulously composed visual narrative.

Stepping inside Haisha is like entering a dreamscape. The artworks include a replica of the Statue of Liberty, and the rooms are filled with large sculptures that can be viewed from different floors of the two-storied house. The title of the work, Dreaming Tongue, represents the process of holding something in one's mouth and recalling a dream by retracing the taste and scent.

Luka was fascinated by the bizarre and whimsical nature of the artwork, while Ana appreciated the artist's ability to transform the mundane into something extraordinary. For me, Haisha was a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, and that creativity knows no bounds.

Local Flavors and Evening Reflections

For lunch, we enjoyed a traditional Japanese meal at Chikurin, a cozy izakaya known for its local ingredients and seasonal flavors. The intimate setting and warm ambiance made it a perfect spot to unwind and savor the culinary artistry of the region. I tried the seasonal specials, while Ana opted for the grilled fish, and Luka enjoyed some tasty grilled meats.


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

In the late afternoon, we took some time to explore Shimacoya, a unique café that also serves as a guest house, used bookstore, and variety store. The café offers a selection of locally sourced beverages and treats, and the bookstore features books on DIY, nature, travel, culture, and design. It’s a great place to relax, browse, and soak up the local atmosphere.


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

As evening approached, we headed to Issen for dinner, a restaurant specializing in kaiseki cuisine. This multi-course dining experience emphasizes seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation. The tranquil setting and artistic ambiance made it a perfect way to end our day of exploration. We indulged in a visual and gastronomic feast, with each course designed to delight the senses.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Naoshima Fishing Park, Gokurakuji Temple, and Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the Shipyard Works, as Shinro Otake's art always sparks my curiosity. Ana is excited about visiting Gokurakuji Temple, as she appreciates the tranquility and history of such places.

Today was a day of artistic immersion and tranquil discovery in Naoshima's Honmura district. From the Ando Museum to the Seaside Gallery and the Art House Project, we experienced art in its many forms, blending seamlessly with the everyday life of the island. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just something to be observed, but something to be lived and experienced.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, and I look forward to continuing our artistic adventure tomorrow.