Family Adventure to the Artistic Wonders of Naoshima Island

Island Immersion: Art and Culture on Naoshima

Today was a day dedicated to experiencing the unique blend of art and local culture that Naoshima Island so effortlessly offers. From quirky bathhouses to vibrant art installations and delicious local cuisine, it was a sensory feast that left me feeling truly immersed in the island's charm. The family was excited to explore, and I was eager to capture it all through my lens.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Akaito Coffee. This charming café, known for its artisanal coffee and cozy atmosphere, was the perfect spot to fuel up for our adventures. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we stepped inside, and the interior, adorned with bookshelves brimming with used books and magazines, immediately made me feel at home. I opted for their Akaito Blend, a smooth and full-bodied coffee that was the perfect companion to a freshly baked scone. Ana enjoyed a cup of tea, while Luka devoured a chocolate croissant with gusto. It’s these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning our day, that I cherish the most when traveling with my family. The café's location, just a short walk from Miyanoura Port, made it a convenient starting point for our day's itinerary.


Discover Akaito Coffee on Naoshima Island, where art, literature, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee create an unforgettable experience.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu. I had read so much about this place, a unique blend of a traditional Japanese bathhouse and a contemporary art installation, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. Designed by artist Shinro Ohtake, the bathhouse is a vibrant and eclectic space, both inside and out. The exterior is a collage of colorful tiles, mosaics, and found objects, while the interior features intricate tile work, murals, and even a life-size elephant sculpture.


Experience the unique blend of relaxation and art at Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, a must-visit destination for tranquility and cultural immersion.

As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the friendly staff and the scent of warm, steamy water. Following local custom, we washed ourselves thoroughly before entering the bath. Soaking in the hot water while surrounded by the quirky and colorful art was an experience unlike any other. It was both relaxing and stimulating, a true feast for the senses. Luka was especially fascinated by the elephant sculpture, while Ana and I enjoyed admiring the intricate tile work and the overall whimsical atmosphere. It was a unique way to unwind and immerse ourselves in the local culture.

        

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

After our rejuvenating bath, we strolled over to the Red Pumpkin, another iconic Naoshima landmark. Created by renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, the Red Pumpkin is a large, polka-dotted sculpture that sits near the Miyanoura Port. What makes this sculpture particularly special is that you can actually step inside it, experiencing the artwork from within.


Explore the vibrant Red Pumpkin in Naoshima, a masterpiece of contemporary art by Yayoi Kusama, set against stunning coastal views.

Luka was thrilled to explore the interior of the pumpkin, peering out through the polka-dotted holes and posing for photos. The sculpture's vibrant colors and playful design perfectly capture the spirit of Naoshima, a place where art is accessible and integrated into everyday life. As I watched Luka explore, I couldn't help but reflect on the power of art to inspire and engage people of all ages. Kusama’s work, with its vibrant colors and playful polka dots, is a testament to the idea that art can be both thought-provoking and joyful.

Next on our list was Miyanoura Gallery 6. Housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, this gallery offers a unique blend of art and local history. The gallery's current exhibition, the Setouchi Archive, showcases rotating exhibits that document various aspects of the region's history, such as tourism, industry, and local photographers. The building itself has been completely renovated into an exhibition facility. Approximately 400 louvers have been installed on the ceiling to enable the works to be viewed in natural sunlight.


Discover the intersection of art and nature at Miyanoura Gallery 6, a serene destination on Naoshima Island showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the gallery, learning about the island's past and admiring the artwork on display. Luka was particularly interested in the old photographs and artifacts, while Ana and I appreciated the gallery's commitment to preserving and celebrating local history. It was a reminder that Naoshima is more than just an art destination; it's a place with a rich and fascinating cultural heritage.

For lunch, we headed to Aisunao, a charming restaurant in a converted traditional house in the Honmura district. Aisunao specializes in innovative vegan dishes that celebrate local ingredients, making it a must-visit for both vegans and non-vegans alike. The restaurant is easily recognized by the blue entrance curtain featuring a stylized and very cute depiction of a rice bowl.


Discover Aisunao in Naoshima: Delight in creative vegan dishes amidst Japan's stunning art island.

The menu at Aisunao features an array of delectable options, from hearty rice bowls to exquisite seasonal salads, all crafted with care and creativity. I opted for the set lunch, a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring organically-grown unpolished rice and vegetables. Ana, always the adventurous one, tried their vegan-friendly desserts made without eggs or dairy products. Luka surprised us all by devouring his entire meal, a testament to the restaurant's delicious and wholesome cuisine. It was a delightful culinary experience that left us feeling nourished and energized for the rest of our day.

After a day filled with art and exploration, we were ready for a hearty dinner. We chose Raumen Tsumu, a local ramen shop known for its authentic dishes and cozy atmosphere. It’s a small, elderly couple-owned ramen shop that offers a delightful menu of comforting ramen dishes that will warm your soul.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan with delicious ramen at Raumen Tsumu on Naoshima Island.

As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the friendly owners and the savory aroma of simmering broth. The menu featured a variety of ramen options, from classic tonkotsu to spicy miso. I ordered the tantanmen (spicy mince meat ramen) and the “fried squid ring” (ika-ringu). Ana opted for the classic tonkotsu ramen, while Luka chose a milder shoyu ramen. The noodles were perfectly cooked, the broth was rich and flavorful, and the toppings were fresh and delicious. It was the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing, a comforting and satisfying meal that warmed us from the inside out. It was a true taste of Japan, a reminder that the best travel experiences often involve simple pleasures like sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, we stopped by Naoshima Shop Umihotaru, a local shop offering a variety of souvenirs and local crafts. I picked up a few postcards to send to friends and family back home, while Ana found a beautiful handmade scarf. Luka, of course, gravitated towards the toy section, where he found a miniature Red Pumpkin to add to his collection. It was a fun way to support local artisans and find unique reminders of our time on Naoshima.


Experience the artistic spirit of Naoshima at Shop Umihotaru, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in a charming cafe setting.

As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared today. Naoshima is a truly special place, a place where art and culture are seamlessly integrated into everyday life. It's a place that inspires creativity, encourages exploration, and celebrates the beauty of simplicity. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to share this experience with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Art House Project in Honmura, visit the Go'o Shrine, and see the George Rickey sculpture. I’m particularly looking forward to the Art House Project, which involves transforming traditional houses into art installations. It sounds like another unique and immersive experience that will further deepen our appreciation for Naoshima's art scene. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll stop by Bar SARU for a nightcap, a chance to unwind and reflect on our adventures before heading to bed. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of discovery on this magical island.