Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

Art and Reflection in Naoshima's Hidden Corners

Today was a day of wandering through Naoshima's less-trodden paths, discovering art that whispers stories of the island’s past and present. Liam and I set out with our cameras, ready to capture the essence of Naoshima beyond the iconic museums, delving into the Art House Project and the intriguing Shipyard Works. It was a day filled with quiet contemplation and unexpected delights, a reminder that the best travel experiences often lie in the spaces between the landmarks.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. The cafe is known for using fresh, local ingredients, and as a nutritionist, the chef crafts a menu that is both visually appealing and healthy. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. I opted for the seasonal special lunch, which featured vegetables from the Setouchi region. Liam enjoyed the cranberry and coconut scones with Naoshima sea-salted butter and sweet summer orange jam. It’s these simple, delicious moments that truly make a trip memorable.


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

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we headed towards the Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake. The integration of art with the island's industrial heritage is fascinating. As we wandered through the exhibit, I was struck by how Otake repurposed elements of the shipyard, transforming them into striking works of art. The dramatic structures against the backdrop of the sea and sky made for some incredible photo opportunities. Liam, ever the engineer, was particularly intrigued by the construction and the way the pieces played with negative space. We spent a good hour here, snapping photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere.


Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.

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

Next on our list was the Art House Project, specifically Kadoya. This project, which began in 1998, involves transforming empty houses in the Honmura district into art spaces. Kadoya, the first house to be completed, was particularly captivating. The blend of traditional architecture with contemporary art was seamless, and the use of water and light created an immersive experience. We had the chance to participate in the creation of the work *Sea of Time '98* by Tatsuo Miyajima, which was a unique and memorable experience. The townspeople's involvement in the art made it feel deeply connected to the community.


Explore the harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary art at Naoshima's Art House Project: Kadoya.

Walking through the Honmura district to get to Kadoya was an experience in itself. It gave us a glimpse into the everyday life of the islanders, making the art feel even more integrated into the community. The Art House Project, with its seven locations, is a testament to how art can revitalize a community and preserve its history. Each house tells a story, weaving together the past and the present in a way that is both thought-provoking and beautiful.

After immersing ourselves in the Art House Project, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Yayoda. This charming seafood restaurant embodies Japanese culinary artistry, with its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I savored the flavors of the sea with freshly caught fish, while Liam enjoyed expertly grilled seafood skewers. The restaurant's traditional Japanese aesthetics provided a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of exploring art installations.


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

Our final stop for the day was to see George Rickey’s Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82. This kinetic sculpture is a testament to how art can interact with its environment. The gentle breezes that swept across the island caused the squares to move in a mesmerizing dance, creating a dynamic visual experience that changed with the weather and time of day. The sculpture seemed to come alive, its motion a reflection of the natural world around it. We sat for a while, watching the squares sway and turn, lost in the rhythm of their movement.


Experience the captivating movement of George Rickey's Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, a kinetic sculpture blending art and nature on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

Before dinner, we stopped by Art Island Center, a gallery, bookshop, and art center established in 2019. Browsing through art books and local publications, I felt a deeper connection to the island's artistic heritage. Liam picked up a book on Scandinavian design, a nod to my Danish roots, while I found a beautiful print of a local landscape to add to my collection. It’s these little mementos that help us relive our travel experiences long after we’ve returned home.


Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.

For dinner, we chose Aisunao, a Japanese restaurant in a converted traditional house in the Honmura district. Known for its healthy and predominantly vegetarian dishes, it was a welcome change after days of indulging in seafood. I opted for one of the house specials featuring organically-grown unpolished rice and vegetables. Liam, always up for trying new things, enjoyed a vegan-friendly dessert made without eggs or dairy products. The atmosphere was serene, and the food was nourishing – a perfect end to a day of artistic exploration.


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

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, our hearts full of the art and beauty we had encountered throughout the day. Naoshima has a way of seeping into your soul, leaving you with a sense of peace and inspiration. It’s a place where art is not just something you see, but something you experience, something you feel.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Danyama, Art House Project: Haisha, and the Ando Museum. I'm particularly excited about visiting Haisha, the former home and office of a dentist, transformed into a work of art by Shinro Ohtake. I have a feeling it will be another day of unexpected discoveries and artistic delights. Good night from Naoshima!

I almost forgot to mention, I did not forget my portable phone charger today, but I did realize I could have used my lightweight rain jacket as there was a brief shower this afternoon! Note to self, always be prepared!