Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Day 8: Echoes of Art and Nature

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and artistic exploration, perfectly embodying the serene spirit of Naoshima. I set out to discover some of the island's hidden gems, immersing myself in the unique blend of art and nature that makes this place so special. It was a day filled with whispers – both literal and metaphorical – that resonated deeply within me.

My morning began with a delightful breakfast at Café Ippo. Tucked away near the Art House Project, this charming café felt like stepping into someone's home. The friendly couple who run it greeted me with warm smiles and a delicious cup of coffee. I opted for their simple breakfast set, which included toast made from local grains and a side of fresh fruit. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling me for the adventures ahead. I made a mental note to bring Hans here someday; he would love the cozy atmosphere and the delicious vegan options they offer. It reminded me a bit of our favorite little café back in Berlin, where we often spend our Sunday mornings.


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

After breakfast, I ventured towards La forêt des murmures on Teshima Island, a short ferry ride from Naoshima. This installation by Christian Boltanski is located halfway up Mt. Danyama, and getting there involved a bit of a climb, but the journey was well worth it. As I ascended, the sounds of the forest enveloped me, creating a sense of anticipation. Finally, I arrived at a clearing where hundreds of wind chimes hung from the trees. Each chime bore the name of a loved one, written on a strip of paper. As the wind rustled through the branches, the forest filled with soft, whisper-like sounds. It was a deeply moving experience, a space for quiet contemplation and remembrance. I found myself thinking of my grandmother, whose name I would have loved to add to the collection of whispers. It was a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing our connections with those we love. The installation served as a complement to Boltanski's Les Archives du Cœur, offering a new place of pilgrimage on Teshima Island.


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

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

Back on Naoshima, I decided to have lunch at Yayoda. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood. The restaurant's ambiance was traditionally Japanese, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. I savored a selection of sashimi and grilled seafood skewers, each dish prepared with precision and care. It was a true gastronomic adventure, and I felt a deep appreciation for the local culinary artistry.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

In the afternoon, I made my way to Miyanoura Gallery 6. This unique space, transformed from a former pachinko parlor by architect Taira Nishizawa, now serves as a community gathering spot and art gallery. It’s fascinating how the original facade of the pachinko parlor was retained, allowing locals to maintain a sense of familiarity with the space, while the interior was completely renovated into an exhibition facility. The sunlight and natural light that pours through the ceiling louvers change the interior with shades of monochrome to provide a space for the works that change in accordance with the season and the time of day. The exhibition featured a collection of materials related to the Seto Inland Sea area’s landscape, culture, folklore, and history. It was a thought-provoking experience, offering new perspectives on the island and its rich heritage. I enjoyed browsing through the collection of books, photo albums, and other materials, gaining a deeper understanding of Naoshima's unique identity.


Discover contemporary art in a serene setting at Miyanoura Gallery 6 on Naoshima, a unique blend of nature and creativity.

Before dinner, I stopped by Shimacoya, a charming café, guesthouse, and variety store. This eclectic spot is known for its cozy atmosphere, used books, and artisanal crafts. I savored a cup of coffee while browsing through the books, finding a few interesting titles on Japanese art and design. I also picked up a small, handcrafted ceramic bowl as a souvenir, a reminder of my time on this artistic island. The shop also offers workshops where visitors can participate in the art of making shikoku shuriken, adding a personal touch to their mementos.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

As evening approached, I indulged in a delightful dinner at Aisunao, a Japanese restaurant known for its flavorful dishes featuring organically grown rice and vegetables. Many of the dishes are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and the restaurant offers a range of vegan-friendly desserts. I opted for one of their house specials, a flavorful rice bowl with a medley of seasonal vegetables. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


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

Reflecting on my day, I realized how much I had connected with the art and nature of Naoshima. The whispers of the wind chimes, the flavors of the local cuisine, and the stories told through art all contributed to a deeply enriching experience. It was a day of quiet contemplation, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. This trip is exactly what I needed, a chance to recharge and reconnect with my creative spirit.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima and Kasaneiwa. I’m also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 for lunch and ending the day with dinner at Luke's Table. If I have time, I might check out Little Plum for a drink. I'm excited to see what new artistic and culinary delights await me.

Until tomorrow,
Mette