Art and Adventure: Discovering Naoshima Island

Finding Serenity and Savoring Flavors on Naoshima

Today was a day of peaceful exploration and delicious discoveries here on Naoshima Island. It's amazing how much this small island offers, from spiritual retreats to stunning vistas and, of course, delightful food. Liam and I set out to experience a different side of Naoshima, stepping away from the contemporary art scene for a day to soak in the island's cultural and natural beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Ippo. This charming café, near the Art House Project's Minamidera, felt like stepping into a traditional Japanese home. The friendly couple running the place greeted us warmly, and we enjoyed some delicious coffee and a simple, satisfying breakfast. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. I appreciated the vegan options they had available, staying true to my values. It’s these little local spots that really make a trip memorable.


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

Gokurakuji Temple: A Moment of Reflection

After breakfast, we made our way to Gokurakuji Temple. The gentle climb up the hill to the temple was a welcome start to the day, surrounded by lush greenery that created a calming atmosphere. The temple itself was a serene sanctuary, inviting contemplation and reflection. It's amazing how a place of worship can offer such a sense of peace. I took some time to simply sit and listen to the sounds of nature, a welcome contrast to the bustling art installations we've been visiting. Liam, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the temple's simple beauty and the craftsmanship of the traditional architecture. As a photographer, I was captivated by the play of light and shadow in the temple grounds, capturing moments of stillness and grace.


Discover the serene beauty of Gokurakuji Temple in Naoshima, a peaceful Buddhist sanctuary steeped in history and surrounded by nature's tranquility.

Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower: Island Views That Inspire

Next on our list was the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking. From this vantage point, we could see the entire island, the surrounding sea, and even other islands in the distance. The panoramic vista was truly inspiring, offering a new perspective on the beauty of Naoshima. I spent a good amount of time snapping photos, trying to capture the essence of the landscape. Liam, with his love for technology, was fascinated by the tower's structure and the engineering that made such a view possible. We both agreed that it was a highlight of the day, a reminder of the natural beauty that complements the art so well on this island.


Discover breathtaking views and the serene beauty of Shodoshima at the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower, an unforgettable tourist attraction.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like a quiet temple visit or a breathtaking view.

Lunch at Cin.na.mon: A Taste of Local Flavors

For lunch, we decided to try Cin.na.mon, a café known for its Naoshima curry. The café had a cozy and spacious interior with an elegant wooden wall that gave it a relaxed mood. I opted for the Naoshima curry, made with fresh local seafood. The curry was rich and flavorful, with a delightful blend of spices and creamy texture. Liam chose the fried chicken, which he thoroughly enjoyed. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a taste of the local cuisine. I appreciated the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, a practice that aligns with my passion for sustainability.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.

Raumen Tsumu: A Cozy Ramen Experience

In the late afternoon, we found ourselves at Raumen Tsumu, a ramen restaurant that came highly recommended. It was a cozy place, filled with locals and tourists alike. I ordered their signature ramen, and Liam tried the spicy tantanmen. The ramen was delicious, with a rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles. It was the perfect comfort food after a day of exploring. We chatted with some of the locals, learning more about life on Naoshima. It's these interactions that make traveling so rewarding, connecting with people and sharing experiences.


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

Little Plum: Ending the Day with Drinks

As the sun began to set, we decided to check out Little Plum, a café and bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day. We enjoyed some local drinks and reflected on our experiences. The bar had a friendly vibe, and we struck up conversations with other travelers. It was a great way to end the day, sharing stories and making new friends. Liam enjoyed a local beer, while I tried one of their non-alcoholic cocktails. It was a perfect ending to a day of exploring the island.


Discover the flavors of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local ingredients meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

Today was a reminder that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place of culture, nature, and community. The Gokurakuji Temple offered a moment of reflection, the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower provided breathtaking views, and the local restaurants gave us a taste of the island's flavors. It's these diverse experiences that make Naoshima such a special place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the island's natural beauty, including Tsunosaki and Yokobou Park. We’re also hoping to visit the Ando Museum to delve deeper into the architecture that defines much of Naoshima's artistic landscape. I'm also looking forward to trying Ebisukamo for dinner, as I've heard great things about their local cuisine. Before that, we will visit 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop to buy some drinks and snacks for the day.

As I sit here writing this, I feel grateful for the experiences we had today. It's a reminder that travel is about more than just seeing famous landmarks; it's about connecting with people, immersing ourselves in different cultures, and finding beauty in the everyday moments.

Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

This trip has also made me think about how I can incorporate more sustainable practices into my photography work. I want to use my platform to promote eco-conscious travel and inspire others to appreciate the beauty of our planet. Perhaps I can partner with local organizations to support conservation efforts or create educational content about responsible tourism. These are just some ideas that are swirling around in my head, and I'm excited to explore them further.

And speaking of exploration, Liam has been researching some hiking trails near our home in Canmore, inspired by the natural beauty of Naoshima. We're planning a trip to Glacier National Park later this year, and he's eager to put his newfound knowledge of flora and fauna to the test. It's wonderful to see how our travels inspire us to learn and grow, both individually and as a couple.

As the day comes to a close, I am reminded of something my grandmother used to say: The best journeys are those that lead us back to ourselves. Naoshima has been such a journey, and I am eager to see what the rest of our time here will bring.