Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

A Day Immersed in Art and Culture

Today was a delightful blend of architectural exploration and artistic discovery in the charming village of Honmura. Nestled on the eastern coast of Naoshima, Honmura is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese architecture interwoven with contemporary art. Maximilian, Amara, and I set out to explore its hidden gems, eager to soak in the unique atmosphere that this art island offers. As a software developer with a passion for travel and cultural experiences, I was particularly excited to delve into the local art scene and share our experiences with you all.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. This quaint café, tucked away in one of Honmura's narrow alleyways, is known for its delicious and nutritious meals crafted from local Setouchi ingredients. The chef, a registered dietitian, creates seasonal menus that are both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. I opted for the seasonal lunch set, which featured fresh, local Spanish mackerel with a Spanish-style omelette and a medley of grilled vegetables. Maximilian enjoyed a hearty plate of scrambled eggs, while Amara devoured a stack of their famous “Happy Scones”. The café itself had a warm and inviting atmosphere, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to a day of exploring.



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

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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Ando Museum. This museum, designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, is a fascinating blend of traditional Japanese design and modern concrete architecture. From the outside, it appears as a regular, traditional residence, seamlessly blending into the town's neighborhood. However, the inside reveals Ando's signature use of concrete, creating an intriguing and thought-provoking space.



Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

The museum documents Ando's activities on Naoshima and elsewhere through explanatory signs, photographs, and models. It was fascinating to learn about his vision for the island and how his architecture interacts with the natural environment. Amara was particularly intrigued by the models of his buildings, while Maximilian, as an architect himself, appreciated the innovative use of space and light. The contrast between the traditional wooden exterior and the modern concrete interior was striking, a testament to Ando's ability to blend the old and the new.


Next on our itinerary was the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This space serves as an information center for the Art House Project, a collection of abandoned houses, a temple, and a shrine that have been transformed into art installations. The Lounge itself is housed in a former agricultural cooperative supermarket, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa. Here, we purchased a multi-site ticket for the Art House Project and gathered information on the various art houses.



Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

The Art House Project is a unique initiative that breathes new life into empty houses scattered throughout the residential areas of Honmura. These spaces have been turned into works of art, weaving in the history and memories of the period when the houses were homes. We learned that the project began in 1998 and currently comprises seven houses. It’s a testament to how art can revitalize communities and create meaningful encounters between visitors and residents.


For lunch, we decided to try Ishii Shouten, a local favorite known for its authentic handmade udon noodles. The restaurant has a homely atmosphere. Maximilian ordered the beef udon, a mouth-watering highlight. Amara enjoyed a simple bowl of udon with tempura, while I savored the local specialty, Kake udon. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the broth was flavorful and comforting. It was a truly authentic Japanese dining experience.



Experience authentic handmade udon noodles at Ishii Shouten in Naoshima - where tradition meets taste in every bowl.

After lunch, we spent some time browsing the Art Island Center, a gallery, bookshop, and art center in Naoshima. The center showcases works by artists and researchers from around the world, with a focus on the identity and resilience of the islands of the Setouchi region. We found a beautiful art book for Amara and a unique piece of stationery for Maximilian. It’s a great place to discover local and international art and find unique souvenirs.



Discover the serene beauty of Art Island Center in Naoshima, where literature meets art in an inspiring setting that captivates every visitor.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a delightful dinner at Restaurant EN. This restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and local delicacies. The ambiance was elegant yet relaxed, and the service was impeccable. I chose a grilled fish dish, while Maximilian opted for a meat dish. Amara, always adventurous, tried a bit of both. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, culture, and delicious food.



Discover authentic Japanese flavors at this charming restaurant in Naoshima, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Today was a reminder of why we chose Naoshima as a destination – its unique blend of art, architecture, and serene natural beauty. The island's ability to seamlessly integrate contemporary art into its traditional landscape is truly remarkable. As we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the stars began to twinkle above us, casting a magical glow on the 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 plan to explore the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima and Danyama. I am particularly intrigued by the Cultural Melting Bath, which sounds like a unique and immersive experience. We also plan to visit One Rest, a local bar, for a relaxing evening. I am excited to see what other hidden gems Naoshima has in store for us. Until then, sayōnara!


I am constantly reminded on this trip how fortunate I am to be able to share these experiences with Maximilian and Amara. As a family, we are growing closer, learning, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And as a travel blogger, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with you, my readers. Your support and enthusiasm inspire me to continue exploring and sharing the world, one blog post at a time.