Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Day of Artistic Immersion

Today was all about diving deeper into Naoshima's unique blend of art and everyday life. It's amazing how this small island manages to surprise you at every turn, offering a fresh perspective on art and culture. From the moment I woke up, I knew it was going to be a day filled with unexpected discoveries and delightful moments.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at maimai. I decided to try their famous Naoshima Burger, which features local Hamachi (young yellowtail) with a fluffy bun and house-made tartar sauce. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling me up for a day of exploring. The cafe itself was cozy and inviting, a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere. I even grabbed a Naoshima craft beer to save for later, wanting to savor the local flavors. It reminded me of some of the small cafes Hans and I frequent in Berlin, always finding hidden gems that offer a taste of the local culture.


Discover Maimai: A charming hamburger café on Naoshima offering delicious meals amidst stunning art installations.

After breakfast, I headed to the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, a quirky and colourful bathhouse designed by artist Shinro Ohtake. The exterior alone is a sight to behold, a collage of mosaics, sculptures, and neon lights. It felt like stepping into a living piece of art. I purchased a small towel as a souvenir; I knew that bathing suits weren't allowed, and photography was prohibited beyond the entrance hall. The friendly staff made me feel welcome, explaining the bathing etiquette with a smile. It was a unique experience, soaking in the hot water surrounded by such eclectic art. The elephant sculpture dividing the men's and women's areas was particularly memorable. I thought about how Mette from Svendborg would have loved this place, always appreciating the blend of art and functionality.


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

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

Next on my list was the Ando Museum, dedicated to the works of the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Housed in a traditional wooden house in the Honmura district, the museum was a fascinating contrast of old and new. Ando has preserved much of the 100-year-old building's shell, blending it seamlessly with his signature concrete designs. Inside, I explored a timeline of Ando's works in Naoshima and other parts of Japan, complete with scale models and the architect's own comments. The way he uses light and space is truly remarkable. The museum extended underground, creating an illusion of additional space. It was a great insight into Ando's architectural philosophy. The integration of concrete within the old wooden walls was particularly striking. I thought of Hans and his work as a software engineer, always finding innovative ways to integrate new technologies into existing systems.


Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

For lunch, I decided to try the Terrace Restaurant. The restaurant had floor-to-ceiling windows, stretching from one end of the restaurant to the other, along with the cathedral ceilings, give the feeling of being outside and awakening in me of some special memories, like the time spent in the allure of the grand vistas of Sydney harbour. I opted for the lunch set menu, which included a selection of local seafood and seasonal vegetables. The presentation was exquisite, and the flavors were delicate and refined. It was a truly memorable dining experience. I even saw a jumping fish, but could not believe my eyes until it jumped again. It is surprising how evocative this place is.


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

After lunch, I took a stroll through the village, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. I popped into the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop to pick up a few snacks for later. It's amazing how even a convenience store can feel unique on this island. The 7-Eleven was well-stocked with snacks, beverages, and everyday essentials. I made sure to check the store hours since they may vary during holidays. It was a convenient stop to refuel after a long day of sightseeing. I even used the ATM to manage my cash flow, as not all places on the island accept cards.


Discover convenience and comfort at 7-Eleven Naoshima, your go-to spot for snacks, essentials, and an ATM on the beautiful Naoshima Island.

As evening approached, I made my way to Restaurant EN for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a solo diner like myself. I ordered a selection of local dishes, including fresh seafood and grilled vegetables. The flavors were authentic and delicious, a true taste of Naoshima. The restaurant was filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the warm hospitality and delicious food. It was a great way to end the day, savoring the local cuisine and reflecting on my experiences.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at this charming restaurant in Naoshima, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Naoshima's outdoor art installations, including Walking Ark and George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82. I'm also looking forward to trying APRON CAFE for breakfast and Kinosaki Udon Naoshima for lunch. In the evening, I might check out Naoshima Yokocho for a drink, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. It's exciting to think about the new discoveries that await me tomorrow.

Naoshima continues to impress me with its unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover something new around every corner. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible island and share my adventures with you all. I think Hans would love it here, and I'm already planning a trip back with him in the future. For now, I'll continue to soak in the beauty and inspiration of Naoshima, one day at a time.

The journey continues, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.