Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Whispers of the Island

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and discovery, a gentle wandering through the more secluded corners of Naoshima. It’s funny, isn’t it? How a place so renowned for its art can still hold pockets of tranquility, spaces where the whispers of creativity blend with the island’s natural beauty. I set out this morning with a desire to find those hidden sanctuaries, to let the art and the landscape speak to me in their own quiet way.

The day began, as many delightful days do, with breakfast at Café Ippo. It’s a charming little spot, and I was ready to fuel up for a day of exploration. The September weather in Naoshima is warm, with highs around 27°C and lows around 20°C, and there's a chance of rain. I made sure to pack my umbrella just in case. After a satisfying meal, I was ready to embrace the day's itinerary.


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

My first destination was the Walking Ark. Finding it involved a pleasant walk through the island's less-trodden paths, a chance to observe the everyday life of the locals. It’s these moments of connection, these glimpses into the ordinary, that often resonate the most with me. As a horticultural consultant, I find myself drawn to the subtle details, the way a garden is tended, the plants chosen to adorn a doorway. It’s a different kind of art, a living art that speaks of connection to the land.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

Art isn't just something you look at; it's something that changes how you see the world.

The Walking Ark itself was a fascinating experience. It’s not one of the island’s grand museums, but rather a more intimate encounter with art, one that invites reflection and a sense of connection to the space around you. I spent some time simply sitting there, letting the atmosphere seep in, feeling the pulse of the island.

Next on my list was La forêt des murmures. This installation required a bit more of a trek, but the journey was well worth it. As I approached, the sound of wind chimes filled the air, a delicate melody that seemed to carry the secrets of the forest. Each chime bore the name of a loved one, written by past visitors, creating a poignant tribute to memory and connection.


Immerse yourself in La forêt des murmures, a stunning art exhibit harmonizing nature and creativity in the heart of Tonosho, Kagawa.

Wandering through La forêt des murmures, I couldn't help but think of Klaus and Olivia. It’s funny how travel can bring you closer to those you love, even when you’re miles apart. I imagined them walking alongside me, Klaus with his architect's eye appreciating the way the installation blended with the natural landscape, Olivia with her artistic spirit finding inspiration in the delicate beauty of the chimes. I made a mental note to suggest a similar, smaller-scale installation for a project I’m consulting on back in Heidelberg.

The forest itself was enchanting, a mix of sunlight and shadow, the air thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. It was a space to breathe, to let go of the mental clutter and simply be present in the moment. I found myself thinking of a quote I once read by the landscape architect, Geoffrey Jellicoe: Landscape architecture... may be perhaps the most comprehensive of the arts, for it embraces not only architecture and the fine arts, but also engineering, horticulture and agriculture. It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things.

Lunch was at Terrace Restaurant, where I enjoyed a light meal with a view of the sea. The gentle breeze and the sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop as I savored the fresh, local ingredients. It was a moment to pause, to reflect on the morning’s experiences, and to recharge for the afternoon ahead.


Experience fine dining at Terrace Restaurant in Naoshima—where art meets exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Naoshima Yokocho, a local izakaya. I decided to be adventurous and try some of the vegan options, but I made sure to specify no bonito flakes, thanks to a tip I read online. It was a lively spot, filled with locals and fellow travelers, the air buzzing with conversation and laughter. I enjoyed a simple meal of tofu and vegetables, soaking in the atmosphere and feeling a sense of connection to the island community.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Naoshima Yokocho, an izakaya that captures the essence of Naoshima's culinary culture amidst stunning art and nature.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I took a stroll along the harbor. The sky was ablaze with color as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sea with hues of orange, pink, and gold. It was a perfect ending to a day of quiet contemplation, a reminder of the simple beauty that surrounds us if we only take the time to notice.


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

Tomorrow, I’m planning to explore the Honmura Lounge & Archive and the Seaside Gallery. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing how the Honmura Lounge & Archive breathes new life into abandoned homes, turning them into unique spaces for artistic expression. I’m also eager to discover the tranquil landscapes and hidden art installations that make Naoshima Island a haven for art lovers. It promises to be another day of discovery, another chance to connect with the art and the spirit of this enchanting island.

As I reflect on today, I’m reminded that travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about finding new ways of seeing. It’s about slowing down, paying attention, and allowing the whispers of a place to speak to your soul. And in Naoshima, those whispers are particularly enchanting.

It's moments of quiet like these, frequent and sublime on Naoshima, that you reflect on where you are — a little island in western Japan — and how unlikely it is that all of this amazing artwork can be found here. The island is a unique blend of modern art with ancient cultural traditions. Perhaps I will take a slow walk around Naoshima tomorrow and try to discover some hidden charms that most other visitors miss.