Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

A Day of Discovery in Miyanoura
Today was a vibrant exploration of Naoshima's Miyanoura district, a sensory feast that blended art, culture, and delightful culinary experiences. It's amazing how much this small island packs in, offering something new and inspiring around every corner. As a family, we dove headfirst into the local scene, eager to uncover the hidden gems that make Naoshima so unique.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cin.na.mon, a cozy café that promised a delightful start to our artistic adventures. The café, just a short walk from Miyanoura Port, had a warm, inviting atmosphere. Maximilian and I enjoyed strong coffees while Amara devoured a fluffy pancake, fueling up for the day ahead. I opted for the Naoshima Curry, a seafood-rich dish that I had heard so much about. The blend of spices and fresh seafood was a delightful introduction to the local flavors, and it was easy to see why this dish is a favorite among visitors. Maximilian chose a Setouchi sashimi set meal, while Amara enjoyed a cheese curry. It was the perfect way to start our day, immersing ourselves in the local culinary scene.

After breakfast, we strolled towards the iconic Red Pumpkin, Yayoi Kusama's captivating sculpture that has become a symbol of Naoshima. The sculpture sits near the ferry terminal, welcoming visitors with its bold polka dots and playful form. Amara was immediately drawn to it, excitedly running around the giant pumpkin and peering through its portholes. Maximilian, with his architect's eye, admired the seamless integration of art and public space. We all stepped inside, marveling at how the surrounding scenery was playfully distorted through the dotted apertures. It was a whimsical experience that perfectly captured the essence of Naoshima's artistic spirit.


Explore the vibrant Red Pumpkin in Naoshima, a masterpiece of contemporary art by Yayoi Kusama, set against stunning coastal views.

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

Next on our itinerary was the Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, an art installation designed by Shinro Ohtake where visitors can actually take a bath. The bathhouse is a vibrant collage of Showa-era kitsch and found objects, a true reflection of Ohtake's unique style. Although we didn't partake in the bathing experience itself, we were captivated by the exterior, a hodgepodge of colorful tiles, mosaics, and whimsical sculptures. Amara was particularly fascinated by the small pond with real goldfish, while Maximilian appreciated the intricate details of the building's facade. It was a quirky and unforgettable sight, a testament to Naoshima's commitment to blending art with everyday life.


Experience the unique blend of relaxation and art at Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, a must-visit destination for tranquility and cultural immersion.

We then ventured to Miyanoura Gallery 6, a unique space that showcases the Setouchi Archive project. This project features the research, collection, and exhibition of materials related to the landscape, culture, folklore, and history of the Seto Inland Sea area. The gallery itself is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, adding to its unique charm. During our visit, we explored the exhibition of photographs taken with cameras made from flotsam washed up on Naoshima, each image telling a story of the island's scenery and people. Amara enjoyed reading the short stories displayed on wooden placards, while Maximilian was impressed by the gallery's commitment to preserving and celebrating local culture. It was a thought-provoking experience that deepened our appreciation for the island's rich heritage.


Discover the intersection of art and nature at Miyanoura Gallery 6, a serene destination on Naoshima Island showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

Lunchtime found us at Okonomiyaki Umikko, a charming family-run restaurant known for its delicious okonomiyaki. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a friendly atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We ordered the Umikko okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients, and a plate of stir-fried vegetables. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of savory and sweet that left us wanting more. Amara especially loved the okonomiyaki, declaring it the best meal she'd had in Japan so far. Maximilian enjoyed a local beer, while I savored a cup of green tea. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented our artistic explorations.


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

As the afternoon waned, we decided to explore the local bar scene, settling on BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima for a relaxing pre-dinner drink. The bar had a serene ambiance, a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing. Maximilian and I enjoyed classic cocktails expertly crafted by the bartender, while Amara sipped on a refreshing juice. The atmosphere was laid-back and welcoming, a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our day's adventures. We chatted with the friendly staff, learning more about the island's history and culture. It was a delightful interlude that added another layer to our Naoshima experience.


Discover the serene ambiance and exquisite drinks at BAR Queen's-Q Naoshima, the perfect retreat after exploring the island's art and culture.

For dinner, we chose Naoshima Yokocho, an izakaya tavern that promised an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including grilled skirt steak, seasonal tempura, and deep-fried jumbo oysters. Each dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Amara loved the chicken skewers, while Maximilian raved about the sashimi. I particularly enjoyed the Saba with miso, a flavorful and comforting dish. The izakaya also offered vegan options, which was a plus. It was a perfect end to our day, a culinary journey that celebrated the best of Naoshima's local flavors.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting at Naoshima Yokocho - where tradition meets artistry on Naoshima Island.

As we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the island was quiet and peaceful under the starlit sky. We reminisced about our day, sharing our favorite moments and discoveries. Naoshima had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore the Valley Gallery and Seaside Gallery, continuing our artistic journey through this enchanting island.


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're planning on having breakfast at Little Plum, lunch at Raumen Tsumu, and dinner at NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda. We also plan on visiting the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop.