Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

A Day of Quiet Discoveries

Today was all about immersing myself in the quieter side of Naoshima, exploring spaces that invited contemplation and offered new perspectives on art and architecture. It's amazing how much the atmosphere of a place can influence your experience of art, and today was a perfect example of that. I was excited to see the work of Tadao Ando, as well as some local artists.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Aisunao. I had heard great things about their vegan options, and as someone who appreciates sustainable and healthy food, I was eager to try it out. The meal was simple yet satisfying, providing the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. I enjoyed a set that included tofu, rice, and miso soup. What a great way to start the day! The location was also very convenient, being a short walk from Honmura Port. It's always nice to find a place that aligns with my values of sustainable living and cultural exchange.


Discover Aisunao in Naoshima: Delight in creative vegan dishes amidst Japan's stunning art island.

Ando Museum: A Dialogue Between Past and Present

The first stop was the Ando Museum, nestled in the heart of Honmura. From the outside, it appears as a traditional wooden house, blending seamlessly into the neighborhood. However, stepping inside is like entering another world. The interior is a striking contrast, defined by Ando's signature concrete and minimalist design. It’s a building within a building, a concept that really resonated with me.


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 offers a fascinating overview of Ando's work on Naoshima, showcasing photographs, sketches, and models of his various projects on the island, including the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House. It was interesting to see how he integrates his modern aesthetic with the existing landscape and traditional architecture.

The Ando Museum encapsulates the essence of Tadao Ando's architectural philosophy: creating something new while respecting the existing context.

One of the most striking aspects of the museum is the interplay of light and shadow. Ando masterfully uses natural light to articulate the concrete spaces, creating a sense of depth and serenity. There is a sense of calm and introspection that I found incredibly appealing. It's a space that encourages you to slow down and contemplate the relationship between art, architecture, and nature. I spent a long time in the museum, just soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on Ando's vision. I really enjoyed learning about Ando's journey and how he came to design the museum.

Seaside Gallery: A Coastal Retreat for Art

Next, I headed to the Seaside Gallery, located on the south side of Benesse House Museum. Designed by Tadao Ando, the gallery is a long, narrow space that overlooks the ocean. The gallery's architecture is simple and elegant, with a large opening that frames the stunning coastal views. The natural light floods the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.


Experience the intersection of contemporary art and nature at the Seaside Gallery on Naoshima Island, a must-visit modern art museum.

The Seaside Gallery features a mix of indoor exhibits and outdoor sculptures, seamlessly blending art and nature. As I wandered through the gallery, I was struck by how the art interacted with the surrounding landscape. The sound of the waves, the salty breeze, and the sight of the ocean added another layer to the experience, making it truly unique. The Seaside Gallery is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with art in a serene and beautiful setting.

Miyanoura Gallery 6: From Pachinko to Art

In the afternoon, I made my way to Miyanoura Gallery 6, located near the ferry terminal. This gallery is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, a former amusement arcade that was once popular with the locals. The transformation of this space into an art gallery is a testament to Naoshima's commitment to revitalizing the island through art.


Discover contemporary art in a serene setting at Miyanoura Gallery 6 on Naoshima, a unique blend of nature and creativity.

Miyanoura Gallery 6 hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of local and international artists. The gallery also serves as a community space, hosting workshops and events that bring people together. During my visit, the gallery was hosting the Setouchi Archive Project, which featured materials related to the history and culture of the Seto Inland Sea area. It was fascinating to learn about the region's past and present through photographs, documents, and artifacts.

The gallery space itself is quite unique, with natural sunlight streaming through the ceiling louvers, creating a dynamic play of light and shadow. The architect, Taira Nishizawa, did an amazing job of retaining the original facade of the pachinko parlor while completely redesigning the interior to create a modern and inviting space. It's a place where visitors and local people can come together to relax and appreciate art. I found the gallery to be a great example of how art can be used to revitalize a community and create a sense of connection.

For lunch, I decided to try Perma_Naoshima. I had heard it offered great ramen, and I was eager to try some authentic Japanese cuisine. I was not disappointed! The ramen was delicious, with a rich and flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant made it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploring.


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

Honmura Lounge & Archive: A Relaxing Evening

As the day wound down, I decided to visit Honmura Lounge & Archive for a relaxing evening. This space serves as an information center for the Art House Project, as well as a souvenir store and a place to unwind. I enjoyed browsing the unique handmade items and chatting with the friendly staff. The lounge has a minimalist decor and a calming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the day's experiences. It also provides information on the artists and architects involved with the projects as well as information on the various art houses.


Explore art, culture, and local insights at Honmura Lounge & Archive, Naoshima's vibrant tourist information hub.

For dinner, I ventured to Raumen Tsumu, a small ramen shop run by an elderly couple. The ramen was simple but delicious, and the cozy atmosphere made me feel right at home. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploring Naoshima's art scene. I opted for the tantanmen, which had just the right amount of spice to warm me up.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan with delicious ramen at Raumen Tsumu on Naoshima Island.

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit Gokurakuji Temple, Shipyard Works By Shinro Otake, and Walking Ark. I am also hoping to do some shopping at Shimacoya. I am looking forward to another day of art and exploration on this beautiful island. I am so glad I decided to come to Naoshima. It is a truly special place that combines art, nature, and culture in a unique and inspiring way. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!

“The best journey takes you to unexpected places, both outwardly and inwardly.” Perhaps this is what I am experiencing on this trip.

Naoshima is a small island, but it's packed with artistic treasures and cultural experiences. It's a place where you can slow down, connect with art, and appreciate the beauty of nature. I highly recommend a visit to anyone who is looking for a unique and inspiring travel destination.