Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

Teshima's Artistic Soul

Today, we ventured to Teshima Island, a serene neighbor of Naoshima, and it turned out to be an experience that resonated deeply within me. It's amazing how these islands, each with its own distinct character, contribute to the rich tapestry of art and culture in the Seto Inland Sea. I was particularly excited to explore the unique art installations that Teshima had to offer.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Perma_Naoshima. I opted for their signature ramen, which was absolutely delightful. The cozy atmosphere and the friendly service made it a perfect start to our day. Maximilian and Amara enjoyed their meals as well, and we were all set for a day of exploration. After breakfast, we took the ferry to Teshima Island. The short ride offered stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands, building anticipation for what awaited us. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share such unique experiences with my family.


Our first stop was Les Archives du Cœur, a deeply moving installation by Christian Boltanski. This archive houses recordings of heartbeats from people all over the world. As I listened to each heartbeat, I was struck by the universality of human existence. Each beat was a testament to life, a reminder of our shared vulnerability and resilience. It was an emotional experience, one that prompted reflection on my own life and connections. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the technical aspects of the installation, while Amara was captivated by the sounds, asking questions about each person whose heart she heard. We even had the opportunity to record our own heartbeats, which will now become a part of this global archive. It was a poignant moment, leaving a lasting imprint on our hearts.


Explore the profound connection between art and emotion at Les Archives du Cœur in Kagawa, a unique museum experience that resonates with every heartbeat.

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

Next on our itinerary was La forêt des murmures (Whispering Forest), also by Christian Boltanski. This installation consists of hundreds of wind chimes hanging from the trees, each bearing the name of a loved one. As we walked through the forest, the gentle chimes created a symphony of whispers, a chorus of memories carried on the breeze. The experience was both haunting and beautiful, a reminder of those who have passed and the enduring power of love. Amara was particularly moved by this installation, carefully reading the names on each chime and asking about the people they represented. It was a touching moment, watching her connect with the art on such a personal level. The forest itself was lush and green, providing a tranquil setting for contemplation. The sunlight filtering through the trees added to the ethereal atmosphere, making it a truly unforgettable experience. I couldn't help but think of my own loved ones, both near and far, and the importance of cherishing those connections.


Immerse yourself in La forêt des murmures, a stunning art exhibit harmonizing nature and creativity in the heart of Tonosho, Kagawa.

For lunch, we headed to Tee's DELI GROCERY. Despite its quirky name, it turned out to be a delightful spot. I had a delicious falafel sandwich, while Maximilian opted for the jerk chicken. Amara, always the adventurous eater, tried a bit of both. The owner was incredibly friendly, chatting with us about the island and its art scene. It felt like a truly local experience, a welcome change from the more touristy spots. We enjoyed our meal in the outdoor seating area, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of Teshima.


After lunch, we spent some time at Naoshima Shop Umihotaru. It was more than just a shop; it was an embodiment of Naoshima's artistic spirit. We enjoyed beverages and snacks while taking in the views. It was a perfect spot to relax and appreciate the artistic essence of our surroundings. Amara picked out a small, hand-painted trinket as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of our time on the island. As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to the port, catching the ferry back to Naoshima. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the sea, creating a magical ambiance. We reflected on our experiences of the day, each of us carrying a piece of Teshima's artistic soul within us. Back at My Lodge Naoshima, we had dinner at Nagomi. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. We shared our favorite moments from Teshima, laughing and reminiscing about the heartbeats and whispers we had encountered.


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 are planning to visit the Teshima Art Museum and Teshima 8 Million Lab. I am particularly excited about the Teshima Art Museum, a collaboration between artist Rei Naito and architect Ryue Nishizawa. I've read so much about its unique architecture and the way it integrates with the surrounding landscape, and I can't wait to experience it firsthand. We also plan to stop by Cafe Salon Nakaoku for a relaxing evening. As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have had on this incredible journey. Naoshima and Teshima have touched our hearts in ways we never expected, and I am excited to see what tomorrow brings. I am also reminded to appreciate the beauty and culture around me, just like I do when I visit the local farmers' markets back in Heidelberg. Good night from Naoshima!