Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

A Day of Discovery on Naoshima

Today was all about diving deeper into the artistic soul of Naoshima, beyond the famed museums and installations. It's amazing how much this island offers, even when you venture off the beaten path. We started our day with a hearty breakfast, and then set out to explore some of the island's less-known treasures.



Our first stop was the Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake. Knowing that Ohtake also designed the Naoshima Bathhouse I♥湯 , which we visited a few days ago, I was eager to see how his artistic vision translated into these sculptures.




Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.

The Shipyard Works are scattered along the coast , blending seamlessly with the industrial landscape. These pieces, crafted from materials and techniques used in real shipbuilding, possess a raw, powerful energy. Maximilian, with his architect's eye, was particularly fascinated by the construction and the way the art interacted with the coastal environment. He noted how the pieces seemed to echo the island's history as an industrial site , now reborn as an art haven.



Amara, ever curious, loved clambering around the sculptures, finding different angles and perspectives. It's wonderful to see her engage with art in such a tactile way. I captured some great photos of her, the vibrant colors of her dress popping against the weathered steel of the artworks. The Seto Inland Sea shimmered in the background, creating a stunning contrast between the man-made and the natural.

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

After our artistic exploration, we were ready for a bite to eat. We headed to Cin.na.mon for breakfast. This cozy café is known for its Naoshima curry and fresh seafood dishes. The interior has a relaxed mood. I opted for the seafood curry, while Maximilian chose a set meal. Amara, of course, wanted cake, and the staff happily obliged with a slice of their cake of the day.




Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.

What I love about Cin.na.mon is its unpretentious charm. It feels like a local hangout, a place where you can relax and soak in the island's atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Refueled, we set off for our next destination: Kasaneiwa.




Explore the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Kasaneiwa, a captivating landmark in Tonosho, Kagawa, Japan.

Kasaneiwa, a set of balancing rocks, is located a bit off the beaten path. The walk there was an adventure in itself, taking us through winding roads and lush greenery. As we climbed the long stairway leading to the rocks , we were rewarded with stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. The rocks themselves are an impressive sight, seemingly defying gravity as they balance precariously on top of each other.



There's a sense of mystery surrounding Kasaneiwa; no one knows whether the rocks were naturally or artificially placed. Some say it's a Japanese version of the Golden Rock in Myanmar. Whatever the truth, it's a place that invites contemplation and wonder. We spent some time there, simply enjoying the view and the peaceful atmosphere. Amara, of course, was fascinated by the rocks, trying to figure out how they stayed in place. Maximilian, ever the architect, was intrigued by the natural engineering of the formation.



For lunch, we decided to try Kinosaki Udon Naoshima. Being in the Kagawa prefecture, known for its udon noodles , it felt like a must. Kinosaki Udon is a typical self-serve udon restaurant where you can pick your udon and toppings. I chose the bukkake udon, topped with grated yam and tempura. The noodles had a perfect texture, and the toppings added a delightful mix of flavors. Maximilian went for a classic udon with tempura, while Amara enjoyed a simpler bowl with just a few toppings.




Experience authentic Japanese udon noodles at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the local atmosphere. We stumbled upon a small shop selling local crafts, and I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs. As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Raumen Tsumu. This cozy ramen shop is run by an elderly couple and is known for its comforting ramen dishes. I ordered the tantanmen, a spicy minced meat ramen, while Maximilian opted for a more traditional ramen. Amara, surprisingly, loved the ramen as well, slurping up the noodles with gusto.




Discover the authentic taste of Japan with delicious ramen at Raumen Tsumu on Naoshima Island.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out Kon'nichiwa , a local bar known for its friendly atmosphere. Maximilian and I enjoyed a couple of drinks while Amara sipped on a juice. The bar had a rustic, cozy vibe , and we chatted with some of the locals, learning more about the island's history and culture.




Discover the tranquil ambiance and delicious offerings at Kon'nichiwa, Naoshima's beloved café for art lovers and tourists alike.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by how much Naoshima has to offer beyond its famous museums. It's a place where art, nature, and local culture intertwine, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Les Archives du Cœur and La forêt des murmures. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems we'll discover.



Naoshima continues to surprise and delight, offering a blend of artistic discovery and serene beauty. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found when you venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the local culture.