Family Adventure to the Artistic Wonders of Naoshima Island

A Journey into Naoshima's Artful Embrace

The air is thick with anticipation as we step onto Naoshima Island. It's a place where art isn't just displayed; it's woven into the very fabric of daily life. From world-renowned museums to quirky outdoor installations, every corner promises a new discovery. Today marked our first foray into this unique world, and it was nothing short of magical.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. The sushi was incredibly fresh, a testament to the island's coastal location. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. After breakfast, we made our way to the Chichu Art Museum.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

The approach to the Chichu Art Museum is an experience in itself. The museum is built mostly underground to preserve the natural landscape. As we descended, a sense of quiet anticipation filled the air. Tadao Ando's architecture is masterful, using natural light to transform the space. The way the light shifted throughout the morning gave each artwork a unique dimension. The museum houses a small collection of works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Monet's Water Lilies were particularly captivating, displayed in a room designed to unite the paintings with the surrounding space. The natural light enhanced the colors and textures, making the experience incredibly immersive.

Luka was mesmerized by James Turrell's Open Sky installation. The opportunity to gaze directly at the sky through a precisely framed opening was both calming and exhilarating. I found myself reflecting on the interplay between the natural world and human perception. Ana, ever the architect, was fascinated by the building itself, admiring Ando's minimalist design and innovative use of concrete.

Art doesn't need to be locked away in galleries to be profound. It can sit by the sea, fade in the rain, glow in the sunset—and still move us, perhaps more than ever.

Leaving the Chichu Art Museum, we hopped on the free shuttle to the Benesse House Museum.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

This museum is unique because it also functions as a hotel. Designed by Tadao Ando, it embodies the concept of the 'coexistence of nature, art, and architecture'. The museum features a mix of indoor and outdoor installations. We wandered through the galleries, encountering works by Alberto Giacometti, Yukinori Yanagi, and Gerhard Richter.

The outdoor exhibits were a highlight, blending seamlessly with the coastal scenery. As we strolled along the paths, we stumbled upon sculptures nestled among the trees and overlooking the sea. The Benesse House Shop was a must-visit, offering a curated selection of art books, prints, and design objects. It was tempting to bring a piece of Naoshima's artistic spirit back to Zurich with us.


Explore the artistic offerings of Benesse House Shop in Naoshima, a unique souvenir store celebrating local art and craftsmanship with exclusive pieces.

Lunch at Terrace Restaurant provided a welcome break. The food was delicious, and the views of the Seto Inland Sea were breathtaking. It was the perfect spot to recharge before continuing our artistic exploration.


Experience fine dining at Terrace Restaurant in Naoshima—where art meets exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

After lunch, we eagerly anticipated our visit to Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin.


Discover the iconic Yellow Pumpkin in Naoshima, a vibrant sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, blending contemporary art with stunning coastal views.

This iconic sculpture has become synonymous with Naoshima. As we approached the pumpkin, its vibrant yellow hue stood out against the blue sea and sky. Luka was particularly excited, having seen pictures of it in his travel books. The Yellow Pumpkin sits at the end of a pier, inviting visitors to step inside and experience the world through its polka-dotted openings. It was a playful and thought-provoking experience, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.

The original Yellow Pumpkin was swept away by a typhoon in 2021 and has since been restored with a stronger structure. It was great to see this iconic artwork back in its rightful place. It has stood there since 1994, becoming an integral part of the island's identity.

Before dinner, we stopped by the Benesse House Beach. Luka paddled in the water, while Ana and I enjoyed the sunset. It was a tranquil end to a busy day, a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that complements Naoshima's artistic offerings.

For dinner, we decided on New Olympia, a local sushi restaurant.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

The sushi was exceptional, showcasing the freshest seafood from the Seto Inland Sea. It was a fitting end to our first day on Naoshima, a culinary celebration of the island's natural bounty.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the seamless integration of art and life on Naoshima. It's a place where creativity flourishes, where nature and art coexist in harmony. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, with our itinerary including the Art House Project: Minamidera, the Lee Ufan Museum, and the Art House Project: Kadoya. And perhaps a nightcap at BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima. I'm particularly looking forward to exploring the Art House Project, where artists have transformed traditional homes into unique art spaces. It's another example of how Naoshima embraces art in unexpected and delightful ways.

Naoshima has already captured our hearts. It's a place that inspires creativity, encourages reflection, and celebrates the beauty of the world around us. I am glad I decided to bring my family along for this trip, and I think that this will be a trip that Luka will remember for the rest of his life. I can't wait to share more of our adventures as we continue to explore this captivating island. For those planning a visit, remember to book tickets in advance, especially for the Chichu Art Museum, which operates on a reservation system. Also, consider using the Naoshima Town Bus or renting bicycles to get around the island. And don't forget your camera to capture the stunning art installations and breathtaking scenery!