Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

A Day Immersed in Art

Today marked the beginning of our Naoshima adventure, and what a start it was! From the moment we stepped off the ferry, the island's unique blend of art and nature captivated us. It's an experience that stimulates the senses and provokes thought, making it a perfect destination for anyone seeking inspiration.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. Liam and I shared a set lunch menu with fried fish and a spicy curry dish. Everything tasted incredibly fresh and delicious, giving us the perfect start to our artistic exploration. I was so happy to find a place open for breakfast, because until recently it was hard to find cafes open for breakfast in Japan.

Fueled and ready, we headed to the Chichu Art Museum. The museum is mostly built underground to not affect the beautiful natural scenery. The architecture alone is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending with the landscape. Designed by Tadao Ando, the museum itself is a work of art. The natural light that floods the underground spaces creates an ethereal atmosphere, enhancing the viewing experience.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

Art doesn't need to be locked away in galleries to be profound. It can sit by the sea, fade in the rain, glow in the sunset—and still move us, perhaps more than ever.

Inside, we were mesmerized by the works of Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Monet's Water Lilies glowed under the ambient light, seemingly coming to life. Turrell's light installations challenged our perception, while De Maria's large room installation was simply impressive. I found myself inspired by the physical spaces even more than the art itself. The minimalist architecture and the way natural light was used were truly remarkable.

After immersing ourselves in the Chichu Art Museum, we made our way to the Benesse House Museum. This museum, which also functions as a hotel, offers a unique experience, blending art and accommodation. The architecture, once again by Tadao Ando, was captivating, and the setting on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea was simply breathtaking. It felt special to be in the museum, admiring the art, with the knowledge that we could access any of the rooms at night time. There are original art and sculptures everywhere.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

One of the exclusive perks for hotel residents is the after-hours access. The hotel offers chic, minimalist accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows and gorgeous views. The hotel is clearly built for the love of art.

Our final stop for the day was the iconic Yellow Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama. As we approached, the vibrant yellow sculpture with its black polka dots stood out against the backdrop of the sea. Perched at the end of an old pier, it has become a symbol of Naoshima. It was unveiled in 1994 and has become one of the most photographed public artworks in Japan. We joined the queue of people waiting to take their picture with the pumpkin, and I must admit, it was worth the wait.


Discover the iconic Yellow Pumpkin in Naoshima, a vibrant sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, blending contemporary art with stunning coastal views.

Kusama's pumpkins are more than just a signature, they are a window into her world. They embody a sense of stability and peace of mind. The yellow pumpkin is a solemn existence on the pier. I couldn't help but reflect on the power of art to transform a place and draw people together.

For lunch, we stopped at Café Ippo. This cafe is near Minamidera, which is part of the island's Art House Project. It looks like an ordinary traditional Japanese home. It is a guest house as well as a cafe. The cafe has vegetarian and vegan dishes available.


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

As the sun began to set, we headed to New Olympia for dinner. This sushi restaurant is known for its delicious Japanese homemade meals and fresh sushi. The ambiance was tranquil and traditional, with tatami floors adding to the dining experience. The restaurant is run by a father-son duo. Liam and I shared a variety of dishes, savoring the fresh flavors and enjoying the cozy atmosphere.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to explore the Art House Project, including Minamidera and Go'o Shrine, as well as the Lee Ufan Museum. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing how these spaces blend art with the traditional architecture of the island. We also plan to try some local cuisine at maimai for breakfast and Kinosaki Udon Naoshima for lunch. And, if we have time, we might check out Bar SARU for a drink in the evening.

Today was an incredible introduction to Naoshima's art scene. The way the island seamlessly integrates art with nature is truly inspiring. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings!