Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

Discovering Naoshima's Artistic Heart

Naoshima Island, a jewel in the Seto Inland Sea, has always been on my travel bucket list. Today, that dream became a reality as Maximilian, Amara, and I embarked on a day of artistic exploration. As a software developer with a penchant for photography and cultural immersion, I was eager to experience the island's unique blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty. Maximilian, with his architect's eye, was particularly excited about the Tadao Ando designs, and Amara, our ever-curious daughter, couldn't wait to see the interactive exhibits.

The ferry ride from Uno Port was smooth, offering glimpses of the serene sea and the lush landscapes of the surrounding islands. Arriving at Naoshima, we were immediately greeted by the island's tranquil atmosphere, a welcome contrast to the bustling city life we left behind in Heidelberg. The air was fresh, carrying a hint of the sea, and the sun shone brightly, promising a perfect day for exploration.

Our first stop was the Benesse House Museum, a place where art and accommodation blend seamlessly. The museum itself is a work of art, designed by the renowned Tadao Ando. The architecture is minimalist yet striking, with clean lines and expansive spaces that invite contemplation. The museum's setting, overlooking the sea, adds another layer of depth to the experience. As we wandered through the galleries, we encountered works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama. Amara was particularly fascinated by Kusama's iconic pumpkins, their vibrant colors and playful shapes capturing her imagination. Maximilian and I were equally captivated by the way Ando's architecture framed the art, creating a dialogue between the built environment and the artistic creations.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

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

After immersing ourselves in the Benesse House Museum, we were ready for a taste of local flavors. We headed to APRON CAFE for breakfast. This charming café is known for its seasonal menus crafted by a certified nutritionist, using local ingredients from the Setouchi region. The café itself felt like stepping into someone's home, with its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. I opted for the seasonal set lunch, which featured a delightful array of fresh vegetables and local fish. Maximilian chose the Happy Scones, which are apparently quite popular. Amara, of course, went for the pastries, her eyes wide with delight. The food was not only delicious but also nourishing, providing us with the energy we needed for the day ahead.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

Next on our itinerary was the Chichu Art Museum, another architectural marvel by Tadao Ando. This museum is unique in that it is built mostly underground, minimizing its impact on the landscape. As we descended into the museum, we were struck by the way Ando uses natural light to illuminate the artworks. The museum houses works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria, each displayed in a specially designed space. Monet's Water Lilies were particularly breathtaking, the soft light enhancing the delicate colors and textures of the paintings. Turrell's Afrum, Pale Blue was an ethereal experience, playing with perception and light in a way that was both disorienting and mesmerizing. De Maria's Time/Timeless/No Time was a powerful installation, inviting contemplation on the nature of time and existence. Amara was fascinated by the way the light changed throughout the day, altering the appearance of the artworks.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

For lunch, we decided to try maimai, a garage dining café known for its Naoshima Burger. The burger features fresh Hamachi (young yellowtail) sandwiched between fluffy buns. We enjoyed our meal on the outdoor terrace, soaking in the laid-back ambiance and listening to music. The fish burger was light and flavorful, and the local craft beers were a perfect complement. Amara, surprisingly, loved the fish burger, devouring it with gusto.


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

After our delightful lunch, we took some time to explore the Benesse House Shop. This shop offers a curated selection of art books, design objects, and Naoshima-inspired souvenirs. I picked up a beautiful photography book showcasing the island's unique architecture and landscapes. Maximilian found a minimalist sculpture that resonated with his architectural sensibilities. Amara chose a set of colorful postcards featuring her favorite artworks from the museums.


Explore the artistic offerings of Benesse House Shop in Naoshima, a unique souvenir store celebrating local art and craftsmanship with exclusive pieces.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to New Olympia (sushi) for dinner. This local Izakaya, run by a father-son duo, is known for its delicious Japanese homemade meals and fresh sushi. We opted for the sashimi set, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. We also ordered the fried chicken, which was a delightful complement to the sushi. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. Amara, who is usually not a fan of sushi, surprised us by enjoying the tamago (egg) nigiri.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

Reflecting on our first day, Naoshima Island exceeded all expectations. The seamless blend of art, architecture, and nature created an immersive experience that touched all our senses. The Tadao Ando-designed museums were architectural masterpieces, enhancing the artworks they housed. The local cuisine was a delight, offering a taste of the island's unique flavors. And the tranquil atmosphere provided a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include exploring the Art House Project: Go'o Shrine, Art House Project: Minamidera, and the iconic Yellow Pumpkin, I am filled with anticipation for what Naoshima has yet to reveal. I am particularly looking forward to experiencing the fusion of traditional spaces and contemporary art installations within the Art House Project. And perhaps, we'll find some time to unwind at Bar SARU after a day of exploration.

Tomorrow promises more artistic discoveries, and I can't wait to share those experiences with you all. Until then, sayōnara!