Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

A Day of Serene Discoveries

Today was a beautiful blend of art, nature, and delicious food here on Naoshima Island. It felt like the perfect day to slow down and appreciate the quieter corners of this artistic haven. After several days of museum hopping, I was ready to experience a different side of the island.

My day began, as most days here do, with a hearty breakfast at the Terrace Restaurant. It's conveniently located near Benesse House, and I've found it's a great way to start the day with a beautiful view of the Seto Inland Sea. The restaurant was airy and open, with large windows framing the tranquil seascape. Although they sometimes offer an American-style breakfast, today I was fortunate to enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast. There's something so peaceful about savoring miso soup and grilled fish while watching the morning light dance on the water. It set the tone for a relaxed and contemplative day.


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

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

After breakfast, I decided to explore Yokobou Park. It was a bit of a walk from the restaurant, but I wanted to take my time and soak in the island's atmosphere. As I strolled, I passed charming houses and small gardens, each with its own unique character. When I arrived at Yokobou Park, I was immediately struck by its tranquility. It’s not a large park, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The park itself is a peaceful retreat, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection. I sat on a bench, sketchbook in hand, and tried to capture the essence of the landscape. The gentle breeze and the sound of cicadas created a soothing backdrop as I sketched.


Experience peace and beauty in Naoshima's Yokobou Park, a tranquil retreat amidst nature's artistry, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Next on my list was Miyanoura Gallery 6, located in the Miyanoura area, a short bus ride away. This gallery is unique because it’s housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, an amusement arcade that was once popular with the locals. The architect, Taira Nishizawa, retained the facade of the old pachinko parlor, which I found quite charming. Inside, the gallery space was thoughtfully designed, with natural light streaming through the ceiling louvers. The current exhibition, “Setouchi Archive,” was fascinating. It featured a collection of materials related to the history, culture, and folklore of the Seto Inland Sea area. I spent a good hour browsing through the exhibits, learning about the island's past and its connection to the sea.


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

For lunch, I headed to Shimacoya, a highly recommended spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. It’s also a guesthouse and book café. I opted for a light meal of soba noodles and a small salad. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the salad was fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect pick-me-up before continuing my exploration.


Discover Shimacoya, a unique café and guest house in Naoshima offering coffee, books, and local crafts amidst a stunning artistic backdrop.

In the afternoon, I made my way to Benesse House Park, another part of the Benesse Art Site. This area features a collection of outdoor sculptures scattered across the lawns and beaches surrounding the Benesse House hotel. I wandered along the shore, discovering art pieces nestled among the trees and rocks. Of course, I had to visit the famous pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama. It’s such an iconic symbol of Naoshima, and it never fails to bring a smile to my face. I spent a long time simply enjoying the views and the art.


Discover the serene beauty and artistic spirit of Naoshima at Benesse House Park, a luxurious retreat blending nature, art, and hospitality.

As the sun began to set, I decided to treat myself to a delightful dinner at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima. This cozy udon shop is known for its authentic Japanese cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a bowl of their signature udon noodles in a hot broth, and it was absolutely delicious. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the broth was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of exploring.


Experience authentic Japanese udon noodles at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to New Olympia, a local Izakaya. It’s run by a father-son duo and is known for its fresh sushi and homemade meals. The server was proficient in English, which was helpful. I enjoyed a delightful Kaiseki multi-course dinner experience, complete with seasonal dishes such as squid, sashimi with local salmon, and fried yellowfin. The cozy ambiance of the old shop added character to the dining experience.


Experience the essence of Japanese culinary art at New Olympia, Naoshima's premier sushi restaurant, where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Teshima Island, another art destination near Naoshima. The itinerary includes visits to La forêt des murmures, the Teshima Art Museum, and Teshima 8 Million Lab. I'm looking forward to another day filled with art and discovery.

Reflecting on today, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the quieter, more contemplative side of Naoshima. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t just about seeing famous landmarks; it’s also about slowing down, connecting with the local culture, and appreciating the simple pleasures of life. As Hans always reminds me, it’s important to find moments of peace and reflection, especially when traveling solo. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, but I'll cherish the memories of this serene day on Naoshima Island. It's moments like these that make traveling so rewarding, offering a chance to learn, grow, and connect with the world in a meaningful way.