Exploring the Art Haven of Naoshima Island with Family

A Day of Kinetic Wonders & Culinary Exploration

Today on Naoshima felt like a perfectly choreographed dance between art, nature, and gastronomy. The island's unique blend of modern art installations and traditional Japanese hospitality offered a rich tapestry of experiences that resonated deeply with Maximilian, Amara, and me. It was a day of discovery, connection, and simple joys that I’m eager to share.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Terrace Restaurant, nestled within the Benesse House. The large windows offered a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea, creating a serene backdrop as we enjoyed a selection of local delicacies. Maximilian appreciated the minimalist decor, a perfect complement to the surrounding natural beauty, while Amara was captivated by the play of light on the water. It was a tranquil start, setting a positive tone for the adventures that lay ahead. I took a moment to appreciate the fact that we were all together, enjoying a peaceful morning amidst such inspiring scenery. It's moments like these that remind me why we embarked on this journey in the first place.


Experience fine dining at Terrace Restaurant in Naoshima—where art meets exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the outdoor art installations that dot the island. Our first stop was the George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal. This kinetic sculpture, with its squares gently swaying in the breeze, immediately caught our attention. Maximilian, with his architectural background, was fascinated by the engineering that allowed such fluid movement, while Amara was simply delighted by the way the sculpture seemed to dance with the wind. I found myself mesmerized by the way the artwork interacted with its environment, a perfect example of how art can both complement and enhance the natural world. It was a reminder of the beauty of simplicity and the power of nature's influence on art.


Experience the captivating movement of George Rickey's Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, a kinetic sculpture blending art and nature on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

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

Next, we ventured towards the Walking Ark, another intriguing sculpture that sparked our curiosity. As we approached the artwork, Amara was excited, asking if it was a real ark. I explained that it was inspired by Noah's Ark, designed to evoke a sense of journey and discovery. The structure, set against the backdrop of Naoshima's rolling hills, invited contemplation and offered a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Maximilian pointed out the clever use of materials and the way the sculpture played with light and shadow. It was interesting to see how different minds perceive art. We spent some time wandering around, taking photos and simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

By lunchtime, our appetites were calling, and we decided to try Gumbo Hut Shioya. This charming Cajun restaurant, with its retro vibe, offered a delightful change of pace. The gumbo, rich and flavorful, was a hit with all of us, and we savored every bite while soaking in the restaurant's unique atmosphere. It was unexpected to find such authentic Cajun cuisine in Japan, but it added another layer to Naoshima's eclectic charm. Amara enjoyed the vibrant setting, filled with colorful decorations and quirky memorabilia. Maximilian and I appreciated the friendly service and the opportunity to try something completely different.


Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at Gumbo Hut Shioya on Naoshima Island - where flavor meets art in an unforgettable dining adventure.

As the afternoon unfolded, we found ourselves drawn to the local bar, maimai. This garage-style café, known for its Naoshima burgers and laid-back ambiance, provided the perfect setting for an afternoon drink. While Amara enjoyed a refreshing juice, Maximilian and I sampled some of Naoshima's local craft beer. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with surfboards adorning the walls and music filling the air. It was a great spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I made a mental note to try their Naoshima Burger sometime, hearing that the yellowtail is delicious.


Discover Maimai, a delightful hamburger café in Naoshima, where flavors meet art in a charming island setting.

For dinner, we chose Nagomi, a restaurant located within the Naoshima Welfare Center. This offered a more traditional Japanese dining experience, with set meals featuring fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we enjoyed interacting with the friendly staff and other diners. Amara particularly enjoyed the udon noodles, while Maximilian and I savored the seasonal specialties. It was a comforting and satisfying end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. It felt good to support a local establishment and experience the authentic flavors of Naoshima.


Discover Nagomi in Naoshima - where authentic Japanese dining meets community spirit in a cozy setting.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled back to My Lodge Naoshima, the air filled with the sounds of the island settling into the night. The stars were beginning to emerge, casting a soft glow over the landscape. We talked about our favorite moments from the day, each of us appreciating different aspects of our Naoshima experience. It was a day of simple pleasures, artistic inspiration, and shared moments that strengthened our bond as a family.


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 Ando Museum and the Honmura Lounge & Archive, delving deeper into Naoshima's architectural and cultural heritage. We're also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at APRON CAFE for breakfast and Restaurant EN for dinner. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Until then, goodnight from Naoshima!

I feel so grateful for days like these, where everything comes together in perfect harmony. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with people, experiencing different cultures, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that our Naoshima adventure is far from over.