Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

Naoshima's Artistic Heartbeat

Today was a deep dive into the soul of Naoshima, a day where art wasn't just observed but experienced. The island unfolded before us, revealing its layers of creativity, spirituality, and simple beauty. It was a day of unexpected discoveries and quiet contemplation, a true feast for the senses.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Perma_Naoshima. Maximilian and Amara were particularly excited about trying the local ramen, and I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Perma_Naoshima definitely lived up to its reputation for blending culinary tradition with the artistic charm of the island.


Experience authentic ramen at Perma_Naoshima, where culinary tradition meets the artistic charm of Naoshima Island.

Our first stop was the Art House Project, specifically the Go'o Shrine. This wasn't just a visit; it was a pilgrimage into a space where art and spirituality intertwine. Designed by Hiroshi Sugimoto, the shrine is a modern reinterpretation of ancient Shinto worship. The optical glass staircase leading to the underground chamber was particularly striking, a symbolic connection between heaven and earth. The way the sunlight filtered through the glass, illuminating the dark space below, was simply mesmerizing.


Discover the serene Art House Project: Go'o Shrine in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets traditional Shinto spirituality in a breathtaking setting.

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

Next on our list was Minamidera, another gem within the Art House Project. This structure, designed by Tadao Ando, houses James Turrell's artwork, Backside of the Moon. Entering the building was like stepping into another dimension. The experience plays with your perception of light and darkness, creating an almost meditative state. It required a certain amount of trust, as you're led into complete darkness, relying on your other senses to guide you. Amara was a little apprehensive at first, but she was soon captivated by the experience, whispering about the shapes she thought she could see in the darkness.


Discover the Art House Project: Minamidera in Naoshima, where modern art meets traditional Japanese architecture in a serene setting.

After immersing ourselves in the Art House Project, we were ready for lunch. We chose Issen, a restaurant known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine. Maximilian, ever the architect, appreciated the restaurant's design, which seamlessly blended with the surrounding landscape. The food was as much a work of art as the installations we had seen earlier in the day. I particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood, a testament to Naoshima's coastal location.


Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine at Issen on Naoshima Island—where art meets culinary excellence in every bite.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we headed towards the iconic Yellow Pumpkin. This sculpture by Yayoi Kusama is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Naoshima. As we approached, the vibrant yellow against the backdrop of the sea was a sight to behold. Amara was thrilled, running around the pumpkin and pointing out all the polka dots. I couldn't help but feel a sense of childlike wonder myself, as if Kusama had captured the essence of joy and playfulness in this simple yet profound sculpture.


Discover the iconic Yellow Pumpkin in Naoshima, a vibrant sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, blending contemporary art with stunning coastal views.

As the sun began to set, we decided to unwind at Bar SARU. This cozy bar, tucked away in Miyanoura, had a welcoming atmosphere. Maximilian and I enjoyed a glass of local Naoshima beer, while Amara sipped on a refreshing juice. The bar had a distinctly local vibe, and we chatted with some of the regulars, learning more about the island's history and culture. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art and exploration.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Lee Ufan Museum and Kadoya in the Art House Project. I am particularly excited about the Lee Ufan Museum, as I have long admired his minimalist approach to art. It is located on a hill overlooking the sea, and I am looking forward to seeing how his art interacts with the natural landscape. Kadoya is another Art House Project location that I am eager to explore. It was the first house transformed in the project and features a captivating installation by Tatsuo Miyajima.

As I reflect on today, I am struck by how Naoshima manages to blend art, nature, and community so seamlessly. It's not just about the individual artworks; it's about the overall experience of being on this island, surrounded by creativity and beauty. It's a place that invites you to slow down, to contemplate, and to connect with something deeper within yourself. And as a software developer, it's a reminder that technology and art can coexist, enhancing each other in unexpected ways. This is a lesson I hope to carry with me long after we leave Naoshima.

I'm also thinking about the umbrella I forgot to pack. While the weather has been beautiful so far, I know that rain is always a possibility in Japan. I'll have to remember to pick one up tomorrow before we head out for the day. It's the little things that can make a big difference when you're traveling, and being prepared is always a good idea. I am also thinking about the sketchbook I forgot. It would have been amazing to sketch some of the art pieces we saw today. I guess I will have to rely on my photography skills instead.