Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

Island Reverie: A Final Bow to Naoshima's Art

As our time on Naoshima Island draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken. It's amazing how a place can seep into your soul, leaving an indelible mark. Today, our final day, was a mix of revisiting favorite spots and discovering hidden gems, all while savoring the unique atmosphere that makes Naoshima so special.

Our day began with a familiar pleasure: breakfast at APRON CAFE. It's become our little tradition, a comforting start before diving into the day's adventures. The coffee was strong, the pastries were flaky, and the ambiance was just right, setting a positive tone for our last day of exploration.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

Our first stop was a bit of a whimsical detour at Uno Port, just a short ferry ride away: Chinu – the Black Sea Bream of Uno. This isn't your typical art installation; it's a collection of sculptures crafted from recycled materials, primarily marine debris. The artist's ingenuity in transforming discarded items into thought-provoking art is truly inspiring. Liam and I wandered around, marveling at the intricate details and vibrant colors of the sculptures. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact of waste on marine life and the importance of environmental conservation. The kids would have loved the slide built into one of the sculptures. I made sure to capture the essence of the sculptures with my camera, hoping to convey their beauty and message to those back home.


Explore the artistic brilliance of Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno, where recycled materials transform into stunning sculptures celebrating marine beauty.

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

Back on Naoshima, we ventured to the Art House Project, specifically to experience the 心臓音のアーカイブ Les Archives du Cœur (Archives of the Heart). This installation by Christian Boltanski is profoundly moving. It's a collection of heartbeats from people all over the world, recorded and archived as a testament to their existence. Walking into the listening room, surrounded by the rhythmic thump of countless hearts, was an emotional experience. Each beat tells a story, a life lived, a moment captured. Liam and I took a moment to record our own heartbeats, adding our rhythm to the symphony of life. It felt like a deeply personal contribution to a collective human experience. I wonder if future visitors will listen to my heartbeat and feel a connection to a stranger across time.


Explore the profound connection between art and emotion at Les Archives du Cœur in Kagawa, a unique museum experience that resonates with every heartbeat.

For lunch, we indulged in local flavors at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the dishes were a delightful reflection of the island's culinary offerings. I opted for a seafood dish, savoring the taste of the Seto Inland Sea, while Liam enjoyed a hearty portion of Naoshima-grown vegetables. It was the perfect midday refuel before our afternoon exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

Our final museum visit was to the Ando Museum, dedicated to the work of the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Ando's influence is evident throughout Naoshima, with his signature concrete structures seamlessly blending with the island's natural landscape. The museum itself is housed in a traditional wooden house, creating a striking contrast between the old and the new. Inside, we explored exhibits showcasing Ando's architectural philosophy and his contributions to Naoshima's artistic vision. It was fascinating to delve deeper into the mind of the architect who has shaped so much of the island's identity. The way he plays with light and space is simply masterful, and I left with a renewed appreciation for his work.


Explore the Ando Museum in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets innovative architectural design amidst serene natural beauty.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at One Rest, a cozy bar that offered the perfect setting for a final toast to Naoshima. We sipped on local craft beers, reminiscing about our favorite moments and experiences. The friendly atmosphere of the bar, combined with the gentle sea breeze, created a sense of contentment and gratitude. It was the perfect way to bid farewell to this enchanting island.


Discover tranquility at One Rest, a charming cafe in Naoshima offering delicious beverages and a serene atmosphere amidst stunning island views.

For our last dinner, we decided on Raumen Tsumu, a ramen restaurant known for its comforting and flavorful bowls. Slurping down the rich broth and chewy noodles felt like a warm embrace, a fitting end to our culinary journey on Naoshima. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, leaving us feeling nourished and content.


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

Tomorrow, we leave Naoshima, but the memories we've created here will stay with us forever. This island has challenged my perspectives, ignited my creativity, and deepened my appreciation for the intersection of art, nature, and architecture. I am bringing with me countless photographs and a heart full of inspiration. As we prepare for our journey back to Canada, I know that a part of me will always remain on this magical island.

Naoshima has proven to be more than just an art destination; it's an experience that touches the soul. From the iconic Yellow Pumpkin to the thought-provoking installations of the Art House Project, every corner of this island has a story to tell. I encourage anyone seeking inspiration and beauty to add Naoshima to their travel list. You won't be disappointed.

As I reflect on our time here, I'm reminded of a quote by Yayoi Kusama, whose art is so prominent on the island:

My art originates from hallucinations only I can see. I translate the hallucinations and obsessional images that plague me into sculptures and paintings.

Perhaps it's this ability to translate personal visions into tangible forms that makes Naoshima so captivating. It's a place where artists dare to dream, and visitors are invited to step into their world.

Until next time, Naoshima. Thank you for the art, the beauty, and the unforgettable memories.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention how much I missed having my portable phone charger! Relying on finding outlets was a bit of a hassle, a lesson learned for future trips. And while the weather was mostly cooperative, a lightweight rain jacket would have been handy during a couple of unexpected showers. Note to self: always pack for the unexpected!