Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

Finding Peace in Art and Nature

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and spiritual exploration on Naoshima. Leaving the vibrant art installations behind for a moment, Liam and I sought out the island's hidden gems, places where the art of nature took center stage. It was a day of tea, ancient stones, and serene landscapes, a perfect balance to the more bustling art experiences we've had so far.

Our morning began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at maimai. It's funny, I wasn't expecting to find a hamburger restaurant embodying the spirit of Naoshima, but it did just that. We savored the cozy atmosphere, surrounded by art that spoke to the island's unique charm. It was the perfect way to start a day dedicated to quiet exploration. After breakfast, we decided to take a moment to just sit and plan our day, and I realized I forgot my portable phone charger! I made a mental note to pick one up tomorrow when we are at the Benesse House Shop [TripDetails].


Discover Maimai: A charming hamburger café on Naoshima offering delicious meals amidst stunning art installations.

A Cup of Tea Amidst Art

Our first stop was a place simply called 'Drink a Cup of Tea'. Now, I'm no stranger to tea, growing up in Denmark, we had tea time every day. But this was something else entirely. Nestled amidst Naoshima's art scene, this tranquil spot invited us to immerse ourselves in a serene atmosphere while savoring exquisite teas. Each sip was complemented by stunning views and captivating sculptures, creating a truly unique experience. It wasn't just about the tea; it was about connecting with the island's rich cultural heritage.


Experience the serene blend of art and tea at Naoshima's enchanting 'Drink a Cup of Tea' - a must-visit for art and tea lovers alike.

Art does not reproduce the visible; rather, it makes visible.

The tea house itself was a work of art, a space designed for contemplation and peace. I found myself reflecting on the journey so far, the art we'd seen, the people we'd met, and the beauty of this island. Liam and I sat in comfortable silence, simply enjoying the moment and each other's company. It was a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life, a lesson that Naoshima seems to be constantly teaching me.

The Mystery of Kasaneiwa

Next on our itinerary was Kasaneiwa, a site that promised a blend of natural beauty and spiritual intrigue. Located on Shodoshima Island in Kagawa prefecture, it was a bit of a trek to get there. Kasaneiwa is a pair of rocks stacked together. It's unknown why the rocks are stacked together the way they are. Whether it was done naturally or by man is a mystery, too. The climb was steep and rocky, but the views of the Seto Inland Sea were more than worth the effort.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Kasaneiwa, a captivating landmark in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

As we ascended, we found Kose-ishizuchi Shrine, a small and peaceful sanctuary that seemed to guard the stacked rocks. The rocks themselves were impressive, a testament to the power of nature and the mysteries it holds. I couldn't help but wonder about the forces that had brought these stones together, the stories they could tell. It felt like a place where the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds was thin, a place where you could connect with something larger than yourself.

Art and Ambience at Benesse House Area East Gate

Our afternoon took us to the Benesse House Area East Gate, another gem within the Benesse Art Site Naoshima. This area is home to the iconic pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, a symbol of Naoshima that draws visitors from around the globe. The East Gate offers a collection of contemporary art installations set against the backdrop of the island's breathtaking scenery.


Immerse yourself in contemporary art and nature at Benesse House Area East Gate, a cultural gem in Naoshima, Japan.

Walking through the Benesse House Area, I was struck by the seamless integration of art and nature. The installations felt like they belonged in the landscape, enhancing its beauty and inviting contemplation. It's a place where art isn't confined to a museum but spills out into the world, becoming a part of the environment.

Evening Reflections and Culinary Delights

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Chikurin for lunch, a charming izakaya that captures the essence of Japanese dining. The cozy atmosphere and delightful menu made it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We savored traditional dishes that highlighted the fresh, local ingredients of Kagawa Prefecture.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Chikurin in Naoshima, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy izakaya setting.

For dinner, we chose Ishii Shouten, a small udon shop in Honmura town. The udon was simple but delicious, a comforting end to a day of exploration. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes the best experiences are the simplest ones, the ones that connect you to the local culture and the everyday lives of the people who call this place home.


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

Later, we ventured out to Kon'nichiwa for a nightcap. The bar had a rustic interior, reminiscent of a cozy grandma's house. It felt like stepping back in time, a welcome change from the contemporary art that dominates much of the island. As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures, the peace we'd found, and the beauty that surrounds us here on Naoshima.


Discover the tranquil ambiance and delicious offerings at Kon'nichiwa, Naoshima's beloved café for art lovers and tourists alike.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Art Island Center, Perma_Naoshima, and the Honmura Lounge & Archive [TomorrowItinerary]. I'm excited to see what these new locations have in store, what stories they'll tell, and what new perspectives they'll offer [TomorrowItinerary].

Tonight, though, I'm content to simply soak in the tranquility of Naoshima, the peace that settles over the island as the sun sets and the stars begin to appear. It's a place that has captured my heart, a place where art and nature intertwine to create something truly magical. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It's amazing how this island can be so full of surprises. What started as a simple plan to see some art has turned into a journey of self-discovery, a chance to reconnect with nature, and a reminder to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, both in the world and in each other. I am glad to be sharing this experience with Liam, and I can't wait to see what other adventures await us on this incredible island. And hopefully tomorrow I won't forget anything on my essentials list!

I'm already anticipating tomorrow's exploration of the Art Island Center, Perma_Naoshima, and the Honmura Lounge & Archive [TomorrowItinerary]. Good night from Naoshima!