Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

Finding Art in Every Corner of Honmura

Today was all about diving deeper into the art and culture of Naoshima, specifically focusing on the Honmura district. It's amazing how much this small island offers, and I was eager to explore beyond the main museums and installations. With Liam by my side, I knew it would be a day filled with discovery and shared moments. After all, sharing these experiences with my husband makes them even more special.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Ishii Shouten. It’s a cozy little spot known for its authentic udon noodles, and I had heard rave reviews about their breakfast sets. Stepping inside felt like entering someone's home, with the warm, inviting atmosphere instantly making us feel welcome. I opted for the breakfast set, a delightful combination of freshly baked bread, local jam and a strong cup of coffee. Liam, ever the traditionalist, went for the classic udon. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us up for the artistic adventures that lay ahead.


Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.

First on our list was the Art Island Center. This place is more than just a gallery; it's an art and research center, and a bookshop all rolled into one. I was particularly excited about browsing their collection of art books and unique stationery. As a photographer, I'm always looking for inspiration, and the Art Island Center seemed like the perfect place to find it. We spent a good hour exploring the shelves, discovering works from both Japanese and international artists. The center itself is designed to provide a peaceful atmosphere, which is ideal for reflecting on the art we were seeing.


Discover the Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets culture in a serene and artistic atmosphere.

Art isn't just something you see; it's something you experience, something that changes the way you perceive the world.

Next, we ventured to Perma_Naoshima. Now, I know what you might be thinking: ramen in an art district? But trust me, this place is special. Perma_Naoshima is renowned for its exquisite flavors and warm hospitality. It's the kind of place where you instantly feel at home, making it perfect for unwinding after a morning of exploring. The restaurant is known for its ramen, so I decided to try their signature dish. Liam, always up for something different, opted for one of their seafood dishes. The ramen was incredible! The broth was rich and flavorful, and the noodles were perfectly cooked. Liam's seafood dish was equally impressive, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that Naoshima is known for.


Experience authentic ramen on the artistic island of Naoshima, where each bowl tells a story of tradition and fresh ingredients.

After lunch, we made our way to the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This place is a hub of information and culture. Housed in a renovated supermarket, the lounge serves as a gateway to the Art House Project, selling tickets and providing information about the various installations. But it's more than just a ticket office. The lounge also features exhibits and displays related to the Art House Project, offering a deeper understanding of the art and its connection to the community. We spent some time browsing the exhibits, learning about the history of the buildings and the artists who transformed them. It was fascinating to see how these empty houses had been given new life, weaving in the history and memories of the past.


Experience the fusion of art and culture at Honmura Lounge & Archive, your gateway to Naoshima's vibrant creative scene and unique local souvenirs.

One of the highlights of the Honmura district is the Art House Project. This initiative involves transforming empty houses scattered throughout the residential area into works of art. Each house is unique, reflecting the artist's vision and the history of the building. We visited several of the Art House Project sites, each one offering a different perspective on art and community.

The Kadoya House, with its mesmerizing digital installation, was particularly striking. The way the artist incorporated modern technology into a traditional Japanese house was truly impressive. We also visited the Minamidera House, which features a dark, immersive experience created by artist James Turrell. It was a bit disorienting at first, but once my eyes adjusted, I was able to appreciate the subtle play of light and shadow. The Art House Project is a testament to the power of art to transform spaces and communities.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Restaurant EN. This restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine, blending local ingredients with international flavors. The ambiance was elegant and refined, making it the perfect place to celebrate our day of artistic immersion. I opted for the tasting menu, which featured a variety of small plates showcasing the chef's creativity. Liam, being a bit more adventurous, chose the seafood platter. Every dish was a work of art in itself, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The flavors were complex and nuanced, and I appreciated the chef's attention to detail.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Naoshima had to offer beyond its famous museums and installations. The Honmura district, with its Art House Project and local eateries, provided a more intimate glimpse into the island's culture and community. It was a reminder that art isn't just something you see in a museum; it's something that's woven into the fabric of everyday life.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, 心臓音のアーカイブ Les Archives du Cœur, and the Ando Museum. I am also looking forward to having breakfast at APRON CAFE and dinner at Raumen Tsumu.

As we prepare to leave Naoshima, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had. This island has truly captured my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore even more of its hidden gems. And who knows, maybe next time I'll even remember to pack that portable phone charger I keep forgetting!