Family Adventure to the Artistic Wonders of Naoshima Island

A Day of Murmurs and Melting

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and artistic immersion here on Naoshima Island. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of My Lodge Naoshima, I ventured out with the family to explore some of the island's more subtle, yet deeply impactful, installations. It's amazing how art can blend so seamlessly with nature, creating spaces that invite reflection and connection.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This charming café, which also operates as a budget Japanese inn, was the perfect spot to fuel up for the day. The kids enjoyed the traditional Japanese decor, while Ana and I appreciated the vegetarian and vegan options available. It’s a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the homemade cakes were a particular hit with Luka.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to find La forêt des murmures.

The journey itself was part of the experience, as we wound our way through the island’s lush landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Teshima, La forêt des murmures is an art exhibit that beautifully harmonizes nature and creativity. Countless wind chimes are installed in a forest, each tinkling gently in the breeze. What makes this installation so special is that on strips of transparent material hanging from each bell, past visitors have written the names of loved ones.


Immerse yourself in La forêt des murmures, a stunning art exhibit harmonizing nature and creativity in the heart of Tonosho, Kagawa.

As we walked through the forest, the soft tinkling of the chimes created a soothing, almost ethereal atmosphere. Ana, ever the architect, was fascinated by the way the artist, Christian Boltanski, used the natural surroundings to amplify the emotional impact of the work. Luka, of course, was more interested in the sounds themselves, running from chime to chime, his laughter intermingling with the whispers of the wind. I found myself reflecting on the memories of loved ones, both present and past, and the importance of cherishing those connections. It was a deeply moving experience, one that resonated with the quiet beauty of the island itself. The kids loved writing their names on the strips of paper, adding their own whispers to the forest's symphony.

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

Next on our list was the Walking Ark, located in Ogicho. This captivating open-air museum features an array of stunning sculptures and artistic exhibits, all harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape. The Walking Ark, by Keisuke Yamaguchi, is a poignant representation of prayers for safety from natural disasters. The white and blue pattern echoes the ocean aesthetic and the piece appears to be walking off into the water.


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

Luka was particularly intrigued by the structure, asking endless questions about its design and purpose. It sparked a great conversation about hope, resilience, and the power of art to heal and inspire. Ana and I appreciated the artist’s ability to create something so thought-provoking and visually striking, using simple materials and forms. It was a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be grand or elaborate to make a lasting impact. It was fascinating to see how the artist drew inspiration from both Noah's Ark and the 3/11 disaster in Tohoku.

Our artistic journey continued with a visit to the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. This unique installation, created by Cai Guo-Qiang, is located on Naoshima's coastline, a location chosen for its dynamic energy flow inspired by the principles of Feng Shui. Unfortunately, we discovered that the bathing experience is exclusively available to guests of the Benesse House. Instead, we admired the arrangement of Taifu rocks and the American-made Jacuzzi tub, all while learning about the Feng Shui principles that guided its construction.


Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.

Though we couldn't partake in the actual bath, the kids were fascinated by the concept of a cultural melting pot, where people from different backgrounds could come together to relax and connect. It sparked a conversation about the importance of cultural exchange and understanding, something that Ana and I are always keen to promote in our family. Maybe next time we visit, we'll book a stay at Benesse House so we can fully experience this unique artwork. It’s a reminder of the island's commitment to sustainability and community.

Before calling it a day, we made a stop at the Art Island Center. This multifaceted venue serves as an art and research center, a gallery, and a bookshop. We browsed the selection of art books and unique gifts, picking up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time on Naoshima. Luka was thrilled to find a children's book about Japanese art, while Ana discovered a fascinating study on the architecture of Tadao Ando. It was a great way to support the local art community and expand our own knowledge and appreciation of the island's creative spirit.


Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. This culinary gem is renowned for its savory okonomiyaki, a type of Japanese pancake filled with an array of ingredients. The warm, welcoming atmosphere made it an ideal spot for a family dinner, and we all enjoyed customizing our okonomiyaki with various toppings.


Savor authentic okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Umikko on Naoshima Island—where every bite celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.

The restaurant exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for both families and solo travelers seeking a genuine taste of local culture. The owners take pride in their craft, preparing each dish with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Diners can watch as their meals are expertly cooked right before their eyes on a teppan grill, enhancing the interactive dining experience. The restaurant's limited hours, primarily open during the evening, create a cozy and intimate setting.

Ana and I savored the unique flavors of Japanese comfort food, while Luka happily devoured his personalized pancake. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, nature, and cultural exploration. We even got to chat with some locals, who shared their insights and recommendations for other hidden gems on the island. It’s these interactions that truly enrich our travel experiences, allowing us to connect with the people and culture of a place on a deeper level.

As we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place that nourishes the soul, inspires creativity, and fosters connection. It's a place where art and nature intertwine, creating spaces that invite reflection and contemplation. And it's a place that I know we will carry with us long after we leave. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Yokobou Park, Danyama, and the Ando Museum. I think Luka will especially enjoy Yokobou Park, while Ana is eager to visit the Ando Museum. And who knows, maybe we'll even discover another hidden gem along the way. We might stop by Little Plum for breakfast, NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda for lunch, and Luke's Pizza & Grill for dinner. And if we have time, perhaps a visit to Chikurin bar!

Good night from Naoshima!