Family Adventure to the Artistic Wonders of Naoshima Island

Farewell to Naoshima: A Day of Artistic Reflection

As our family adventure on Naoshima Island draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible blend of art, architecture, and nature that defines this unique destination. Today, we explored more of the island's iconic landmarks, indulged in its culinary offerings, and soaked in the tranquil atmosphere one last time. It's hard to believe our 15-day journey is ending; it feels like just yesterday we arrived, eager to discover the artistic wonders of this island.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Akaito Coffee. This cozy café, with its red-brick exterior and nostalgic interior, has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Sipping on their hand-roasted coffee, I enjoyed a freshly baked scone while Ana and Luka savored their gateau chocolat. The café's quiet ambiance and selection of books provided a perfect start to the day. It was a gentle space to breathe, connect, and let the quiet rhythm of Naoshima settle in.


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

After breakfast, we headed to the Benesse House Museum. As a fusion of a museum and hotel, it was designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The museum seamlessly integrates art with nature, offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Wandering through the exhibits, I was captivated by the diverse collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The unique experience of being in a museum after hours, accessible only to hotel guests, is something I will always remember. The way Ando has created a modernist paradise filled with incredible architecture, nature and art is something to behold.


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

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.

Next on our itinerary was the iconic Red Pumpkin. This vibrant sculpture by Yayoi Kusama stands near Miyanoura Port, welcoming visitors to the island. We couldn't resist the opportunity to take photos with the pumpkin, a symbol of Naoshima's artistic identity. Luka was particularly fascinated by the pumpkin's polka dots and the ability to step inside the sculpture. Kusama's vibrant colors and cute polkadots are the artistic expressions that help the avant-garde artist cope with the hallucinations she experienced in childhood.


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

For lunch, we chose Shimacoya, a charming café and bookstore. Housed in a renovated 130-year-old traditional Japanese house, Shimacoya offers a unique atmosphere. We enjoyed their jumbo puddings and cream sodas, which evoked a sense of retro nostalgia. Browsing the selection of books on DIY, nature, and travel added to the experience. It was a perfect spot to relax and soak in the island's creative spirit.


Discover Shimacoya, a unique café and guest house in Naoshima offering coffee, books, and local crafts amidst a stunning artistic backdrop.

Our afternoon was dedicated to visiting Naoshima Hall. Designed by architect Hiroshi Sambuichi, this public hall serves as a community center and a symbol of the island's revitalization. The building's design incorporates traditional Japanese building techniques and local materials, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. The hall's roof, made from Japanese cypress, and its earth walls reflect Sambuichi's commitment to creating architecture that is part of the Earth. The hall is a multi-purpose facility, consisting of a main hall, a community center, and a garden.


Discover the artistic heart of Naoshima at Naoshima Hall, a community center that showcases local culture and creativity in a serene island setting.

As the day drew to a close, we savored our final dinner on Naoshima at Ebisukamo. This cozy restaurant is known for its incredible food and friendly staff. The owner goes above and beyond for customers, creating a welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed fresh seafood dishes, including sashimi and grilled fish, savoring the flavors of the Seto Inland Sea. The portions are on the smaller side, but the variety of options made it perfect for an evening of chilling out. Ebisukamo offers incredible food cooked with great care and served by the friendly owner.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Ebisukamo on Naoshima Island—where local flavors meet serene beauty.

Reflecting on our time here, I am struck by how Naoshima has managed to seamlessly blend art with everyday life. The island's commitment to sustainability and its preservation of local traditions have created a unique cultural destination. As a software engineer who appreciates both technology and nature, I found Naoshima to be a perfect blend of both worlds. Ana, with her architectural background, was equally inspired by the island's innovative designs and integration with the landscape. And Luka, well, he simply loved the pumpkins and the freedom to explore.

One of the most memorable aspects of our trip was the Naoshima Himatsuri (Fire Festival) in August. The gorgeous fireworks show over the sea was a spectacular sight, and the collaboration of “Naoshima Tsutsuji Daiko (Japanese Drum)” with the fireworks was truly special.

Our stay at My Lodge Naoshima was comfortable and convenient, providing easy access to all the island's attractions. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made it feel like a home away from home, which was especially important when traveling with family. It was budget-friendly, and a great place to meet other travellers.


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

As we prepare to leave Naoshima, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared. This island has not only enriched our understanding of art and culture but has also strengthened our bond as a family. I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us. Perhaps we'll return to Slovenia to explore more of our homeland's hidden gems. Or maybe we'll venture to another art island in the Seto Inland Sea.

As this leg of our journey comes to an end, I am reminded of a quote by Yayoi Kusama:

I went to the end of space, looking for the red beam of the sun. It turned into a red pumpkin in Naoshima's sea.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Zurich. While I am eager to return to my work and our familiar routines, I know that the memories and inspiration we've gained on Naoshima will stay with us for a lifetime. This trip has reinforced my belief in the importance of travel, not just as a means of seeing new places, but as a way of opening our minds and hearts to new perspectives. Until next time, Naoshima, arigato!

P.S. I almost forgot! I need to remember to buy a universal adapter when I get back to Zurich. It would have been useful during this trip [TravelEssentialsForgotten]. And maybe a portable phone charger too!

Thank you for following our journey! Stay tuned for more travel adventures on Evendo!