Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Day of Discovery in Honmura

As my Naoshima adventure nears its end, I wanted to soak in as much of the island's unique charm as possible. Today was all about exploring the Honmura district, diving deeper into its art scene, and savoring the local flavors. It’s amazing how much this island, small as it is, continues to surprise and inspire me.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Little Plum. This cozy spot, with its warm, wood-accented exterior, was the perfect place to start the day. The restaurant is known for using local ingredients, and I opted for their seafood-packed pescatore. Bursting with fresh flavors, it was a delightful way to fuel up for the day's adventures.


Experience the essence of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a serene setting.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed towards the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This lounge serves as a gateway to the Art House Project, a collection of abandoned houses, a temple, and a shrine transformed into art installations. The lounge itself is designed to encourage relaxation and contemplation, with minimalist decor and a calming atmosphere. I purchased my tickets here and gathered information about the various art houses. It's amazing how art and community blend together in this space. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing insights into the island's art scene and recommending must-see exhibitions.


Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

Exploring the Art House Project was like stepping into a different world. Each house had its own unique character and artistic vision. The unassuming exteriors of the houses blended seamlessly into the traditional Japanese neighborhood, but the interiors were transformed into immersive art experiences. I visited Kadoya, a 200-year-old restored residence with a traditional storehouse, and Minamidera, where I experienced James Turrell's captivating artwork.

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

After immersing myself in the Honmura art scene, I decided to visit the Seaside Gallery. Designed by Tadao Ando, the gallery is located in a terraced plaza overlooking the ocean. The long, narrow space allows an abundance of light to flood through its large east-facing opening. The gallery features contemporary works that explore themes of the sea and wind, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. As I wandered through the gallery, I was struck by how the art resonated with the natural beauty of the environment.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

For lunch, I ventured to Gumbo Hut Shioya. This Cajun restaurant, with its retro charm, was a delightful surprise on the island. The gumbo, a hearty and flavorful stew, was a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine I had been enjoying. The friendly owner, Buddy, created an inviting atmosphere with great music from the 50s and 60s. It felt like stepping into a different world while enjoying a comforting meal.


Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at Gumbo Hut Shioya on Naoshima Island - where flavor meets art in an unforgettable dining adventure.

In the afternoon, I explored the Art Island Center, a bookstore specializing in art literature and local publications. It was the perfect place to delve deeper into the island's artistic heritage and find unique souvenirs. The peaceful atmosphere made it easy to lose myself in the books and reflect on my experiences on Naoshima. I picked up a few postcards and a book about the island's history, wanting to take a piece of Naoshima back home with me.


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

As evening approached, I made my way to Chikurin for dinner. This izakaya, with its warm ambiance and friendly service, perfectly encapsulated the essence of Japanese dining culture. The menu featured a delightful selection of traditional Japanese dishes, showcasing local ingredients and seasonal flavors. I enjoyed a variety of small plates, savoring the freshness and quality of each ingredient. The communal setting encouraged conversation, and I felt a sense of connection with the locals and other travelers.


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

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how Naoshima seamlessly blends art, nature, and community. It's a place where creativity thrives and where you can find inspiration in the most unexpected corners. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Tsunosaki and George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82 before heading back to the mainland. I’m also hoping to grab a drink at maimai.

Naoshima has certainly captured my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore even more of its hidden gems. I’m so glad I decided to take this solo trip – it’s been a wonderful experience of art, culture and personal reflection. As Klaus always says, “Reisen bildet,” and this trip has certainly been educational.

The thought of returning to Heidelberg is comforting, especially with the autumn colors starting to paint the Odenwald forest. I’m already planning a hike with Klaus to enjoy the crisp air and golden views. Perhaps I’ll even try to recreate some of the dishes I’ve tasted here, incorporating the fresh produce from the local farmers' market. But for now, I’ll savor my last night on this enchanting island.

I am also excited to see Olivia again, as she always enjoys hearing about my travels. I'll be sure to bring her some unique souvenirs from the Art Island Center. Maybe she will be inspired to visit Naoshima herself one day. I know she would appreciate the island's blend of art and nature, and it would be a wonderful experience to share with her.

As I prepare to leave Naoshima, I carry with me a renewed appreciation for art, nature, and the beauty of simplicity. This island has taught me the importance of slowing down, connecting with the present moment, and finding inspiration in the everyday. It's a lesson I'll carry with me long after I've returned to my garden in Heidelberg.

I think I'll try to convince Klaus to come back here with me next year. He would absolutely love the architecture and the peaceful atmosphere. Maybe we could even bring Olivia along and make it a family trip. I can already imagine us exploring the island together, discovering new art installations, and savoring delicious meals at the local restaurants. It would be a wonderful way to create lasting memories and share our love for travel and art with each other.