Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Whispers in the Wind, Art by the Sea

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and artistic discovery here on Naoshima. Leaving behind the more bustling areas, I ventured into the island's serene landscapes, seeking out the whispers of its hidden gems. It was a day to get lost in the beauty of art and nature, a perfect blend that defines the unique charm of Naoshima. I was excited to discover new facets of this island, and ready to embrace the unexpected.

My day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Yayoda. I opted for a traditional seafood set, eager to taste the local flavors. The restaurant was cozy, with an inviting atmosphere. It was the perfect way to fuel up before immersing myself in the day's artistic explorations.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off towards my first destination: La forêt des murmures (Whispering Forest). This installation, located on nearby Teshima Island, required a short ferry ride. I found the ferry ride quite pleasant, offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. The gentle breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves were a welcome change from the bustling city life of Toronto.


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

Arriving at Teshima, I was immediately struck by its tranquil atmosphere. The island felt less developed than Naoshima, with a more rural and untouched charm. I made my way towards the forest, the anticipation building with each step. The walk itself was an experience, with lush greenery and glimpses of the sea through the trees.

As I entered La forêt des murmures, I was enveloped in a symphony of gentle sounds. Hundreds of wind chimes hung from the trees, each carrying a small piece of transparent material with names and messages written by past visitors. The chimes tinkled softly in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing and ethereal atmosphere. The sun filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.

In the heart of the whispering forest, I found a profound connection to the memories and emotions of others, a reminder of the shared human experience.

The installation was created by French artist Christian Boltanski as a complement to Les Archives du Cœur. Walking through the forest, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and introspection. The whispers of the wind chimes seemed to carry the stories of those who had come before, their hopes, dreams, and memories echoing through the trees. It was a powerful and moving experience, a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and death.

I spent a long time in the forest, simply listening to the whispers and contemplating the beauty of the natural surroundings. I even added my own message to one of the wind chimes, a small tribute to my family back home in Toronto. It felt like a way to connect with them, even from thousands of miles away.

Leaving the forest, I felt a sense of renewal and inspiration. The experience had been deeply moving, a reminder of the power of art to evoke emotions and create connections. I boarded the ferry back to Naoshima, the whispers of the forest still echoing in my mind.

Back on Naoshima, I decided to visit the Seaside Gallery. Designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, the gallery is located in a terraced plaza overlooking the ocean. The building's design is striking, with a long and narrow layout that follows the natural topography. Large east-facing openings allow an abundance of light to flood through the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.


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

The Seaside Gallery boasts thematic artworks reflecting the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. As I strolled through the gallery, I was captivated by the way the art interacted with the natural surroundings. The ocean views provided a stunning backdrop, blurring the lines between the art and the world outside. It was a truly immersive experience, a feast for the senses.

One particular piece that caught my eye was a series of photographs capturing the changing light and colors of the sea. The artist had managed to capture the essence of the ocean, its ever-shifting moods and textures. I found myself lost in the images, transported to the shores of Naoshima, feeling the gentle breeze and the warmth of the sun on my skin.

After immersing myself in art, my stomach started to rumble, reminding me it was lunchtime. I found myself at NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda, a charming eatery known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. I opted for the fish set meal, eager to taste the fresh seafood that the restaurant is famous for. The fish was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the accompanying rice and miso soup were equally delicious.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at NaoPAM in Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with a traditional Japanese decor. I particularly enjoyed the wooden terrace, where I sat and enjoyed my meal while taking in the views of the surrounding area. I overheard some other tourists mentioning that the restaurant is connected to a small art gallery in a renovated traditional house. I made a mental note to check it out next time.

With renewed energy after lunch, I decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Naoshima Shop Umihotaru. This charming shop offers a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and art-related items. I browsed through the selection, admiring the intricate details of the handcrafted ceramics and the vibrant colors of the local textiles. I ended up buying a small Naoshima pumpkin figurine as a memento of my trip. I also picked up a postcard to send to Zayn, knowing he'd appreciate a piece of Naoshima too.


Experience the artistic spirit of Naoshima at Shop Umihotaru, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in a charming cafe setting.

As evening approached, I made my way to Okonomiyaki Umikko for dinner. I'd heard great things about their okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, and I was eager to try it for myself. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.


Savor authentic okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Umikko on Naoshima Island—where every bite celebrates local flavors and culinary artistry.

I ordered the classic okonomiyaki, topped with a generous amount of sauce, mayonnaise, and dried seaweed. The pancake was cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The combination of flavors was simply divine, a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and umami. As someone who loves to try different cuisines, this was definitely a highlight of my culinary adventures in Japan.

After dinner, I took a leisurely stroll back to My Lodge Naoshima, savoring the cool evening air and the quiet ambiance of Naoshima. The island was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. I reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this unique and inspiring destination.


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 plan to visit the Gokurakuji Temple and Shipyard Works By Shinro Otake. I am also thinking of ending the day with a drink at Cin.na.mon. I look forward to more art and cultural immersion here on Naoshima.

Today has been a reminder of why I love to travel solo. It allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience, to connect with the local culture, and to discover hidden gems that I might otherwise miss. Naoshima has exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.