Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

Finding Peace in the Simple Things

Today was a gentle reminder that the most profound experiences often come from the simplest of activities. Away from the bustling art museums, we embraced the everyday life of Naoshima, finding beauty in a Naoshima Fishing Park and savoring moments over tea. It’s amazing how a change of pace can bring a new perspective, enriching our appreciation for this unique island.



Our day began with the promise of a relaxed morning at the Naoshima Fishing Park. Amara was especially excited; she’d been talking about catching her own fish since we arrived in Japan. Maximilian, ever the patient one, packed our small backpack with water bottles and some snacks, while I grabbed my camera, eager to capture the day's adventures. The walk to the park was a pleasant one, the island air crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea. As we strolled, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant green rice paddies contrasting against the deep blue of the Seto Inland Sea. It was a picturesque scene, a reminder of the harmonious blend of nature and human activity that defines Naoshima.


Experience fishing and tranquility at Naoshima Fishing Park, a scenic destination for nature lovers in Japan's beautiful Naoshima Island.

Arriving at the Naoshima Fishing Park, we were greeted by the friendly staff who provided us with all the necessary equipment. Amara chose a bright pink fishing rod, while Maximilian opted for a more traditional bamboo one. I, of course, was more interested in photographing the whole affair. The park itself was well-maintained, with several fishing piers extending into the calm waters. The atmosphere was serene, with only the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional excited squeal from Amara breaking the silence. We cast our lines, and the waiting began. Amara, surprisingly, was the most patient of us all, her eyes glued to the water, anticipation bubbling inside her. Maximilian offered her tips, sharing his childhood fishing experiences in Germany, a world away from this tranquil Japanese island.

Sometimes, the greatest discoveries are not found in museums, but in the quiet moments shared with loved ones, surrounded by the simple beauty of nature.

After what felt like an eternity, Amara's rod suddenly bent, and her eyes widened in excitement. With Maximilian's guidance, she carefully reeled in her line, revealing a small, shimmering fish. Her joy was infectious, and even I couldn't resist cheering her on. We took a quick photo before releasing the fish back into the water, a small victory celebrated with high-fives and beaming smiles. It wasn't about the catch, but the experience, the shared moment of triumph that we would cherish forever. We spent another hour at the park, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the simple pleasure of being together. Before leaving, we thanked the staff and promised to return again soon.


By midday, our stomachs were beginning to rumble, so we headed to Café Ippo for breakfast. This charming café, located near the Ando Museum, is known for its vegan-friendly options and cozy atmosphere. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the warm smiles of the staff. The interior was simple yet inviting, with wooden tables and chairs, and large windows overlooking a small garden. We ordered a selection of dishes, including a traditional Japanese breakfast set for Maximilian, a vegan curry for me, and pancakes for Amara. The food was delicious, each dish prepared with fresh, local ingredients.


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

As we ate, we chatted about our plans for the rest of the day, Amara excitedly suggesting a visit to the pumpkin sculpture, while Maximilian expressed interest in exploring the island's lesser-known art installations. I simply wanted to soak in the island's peaceful atmosphere, perhaps with a cup of tea in hand. After breakfast, we strolled through the streets of Naoshima, admiring the traditional Japanese architecture and the vibrant street art that adorned many of the buildings. We stopped at Mikazukishoten, a quirky little shop that sells coffee and unique souvenirs. The owner, a friendly man with a passion for coffee, shared stories about the island and its artistic community. I bought a small, hand-painted ceramic bell as a memento of our visit, while Amara picked out a colorful postcard to send to her grandparents back in Germany.


Discover the perfect blend of exquisite coffee and unique souvenirs at Mikazukishoten in Naoshima, a true gem for art and coffee lovers alike.

For lunch, we decided to try Yayoda, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. The restaurant was small and unassuming, but the food was exceptional. We ordered a selection of dishes, including grilled fish, tempura, and sushi, each prepared with the freshest ingredients. The flavors were delicate and nuanced, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the local seafood. As we ate, we watched the local fishermen unloading their catch, a reminder of the island's deep connection to the sea. Maximilian, ever the architect, was fascinated by the restaurant's traditional Japanese design, admiring the intricate woodwork and the minimalist aesthetic.


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

In the late afternoon, we sought out a traditional tea house to experience a moment of quiet contemplation. We found a small, unassuming tea room tucked away in a quiet corner of the island. The interior was simple, with tatami mats, low tables, and a serene atmosphere. We ordered a pot of green tea and a selection of traditional Japanese sweets. As we sipped our tea, we gazed out at the tranquil garden, the gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the bamboo trees. It was a moment of perfect serenity, a chance to disconnect from the world and simply be present in the moment.


Experience the serene blend of art and tea at Naoshima's enchanting 'Drink a Cup of Tea' - a must-visit for art and tea lovers alike.

For dinner, we chose EAT LOCAL Naoshima Shokudo, drawn in by its promise of authentic local cuisine. Located near the iconic yellow pumpkin, the restaurant offered stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. The menu featured a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and we decided to try a bit of everything. Amara enjoyed the udon noodles, while Maximilian savored the grilled seafood, and I indulged in a flavorful vegetable curry. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, filled with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. It was the perfect way to end our day, surrounded by good food, good company, and the breathtaking beauty of Naoshima.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, we made our way back to My Lodge Naoshima, our hearts full of gratitude for the day's simple pleasures. Amara, tired but content, fell asleep in my arms as we walked, her small hand clutching the ceramic bell we had bought earlier in the day. Maximilian and I walked in silence, each lost in our own thoughts, but connected by the shared experiences of the day.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Naoshima's artistic side, with visits to Shipyard Works By Shinro Otake and Kasaneiwa. But for tonight, I am content to savor the memories of a day spent embracing the simple things in life, a day that reminded me that true happiness is often found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments shared with loved ones, surrounded by the beauty of the world. This island continues to surprise and delight, revealing its charm in unexpected ways.


As I reflect on our day, I realize that Naoshima is more than just an art island; it's a place where you can reconnect with yourself and with the world around you. It's a place where you can find beauty in the everyday, and where you can discover that the simplest of things can bring the greatest joy. And as we continue our journey, I am excited to see what other treasures this enchanting island has in store for us.


I am also excited to see what the Setouchi Triennale 2025 will bring to the island. I've heard so much about it and I'm sure it will be a wonderful experience. The new Naoshima Museum of Art is set to open on May 31st, so we will miss it by a couple of weeks, but I'm sure it will be worth a visit when we return.