Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Island Escapes: Nature's Embrace on Naoshima

Today was a day dedicated to exploring the natural side of Naoshima, a welcome change of pace after days immersed in contemporary art. While the museums and installations are incredible, I was eager to discover the island's less-trodden paths, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the panoramic views. It's amazing how much tranquility you can find just beyond the art world's doorstep.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at NaoPAM/ Shima-Shoku-Do Miyanda. The restaurant was charming, with friendly staff and the food was delicious. It was a great way to fuel up for the day's adventures, reminding me of the simple joys of starting the day with a good meal. It felt like a true Naoshima institution, something I was happy to experience. The fresh seafood set the perfect tone for a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at NaoPAM in Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

First on the agenda was the Naoshima Fishing Park. I have to admit, I'm not much of a fisherwoman, but the idea of spending some time by the sea, trying my luck, was appealing. Plus, I had heard the park offered stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Getting there was easy enough, a short bus ride followed by a leisurely stroll. The park itself was well-maintained, and you could rent all the gear you needed, which was perfect for a novice like me. I even saw families enjoying the day, which made me miss Hans and the idea of bringing our future children here one day.


Experience fishing and tranquility at Naoshima Fishing Park, a scenic destination for nature lovers in Japan's beautiful Naoshima Island.

I cast my line, baited with the provided krill, and waited patiently. The sun was warm, the sea breeze was gentle, and the sound of the waves was incredibly soothing. I didn't catch anything of note, just a couple of small, rather unimpressive fish that I promptly released back into the water. Still, it was a wonderfully relaxing experience, a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. I could see why people found fishing so therapeutic; it's all about patience, observation, and a bit of luck. I even overheard a local mentioning that the fishing is better in the morning, so perhaps I'll try my luck again another time.

Sometimes, the greatest art is not found in museums, but in the landscapes that surround us.

After a morning of fishing, I decided to tackle Danyama, a mountain offering panoramic views of the island and the Seto Inland Sea. The hike was moderately challenging, a good workout for my legs, but the scenery along the way was well worth the effort. The trail wound through lush greenery, with glimpses of the sparkling sea through the trees. It reminded me of hiking back home in Vietnam, although the flora was quite different. I even learned that halfway up Danyama, on neighboring Teshima Island, lies La Forêt des Murmures, a serene forest adorned with countless wind chimes – perhaps a trip for another day!


Experience breathtaking views and tranquility at Danyama, a must-visit observation deck in Japan's stunning Teshimaieura region.

As I climbed higher, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The coastline stretched out before me, dotted with small islands and fishing boats. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp and clean. It was the perfect spot to pause, catch my breath, and simply admire the beauty of Naoshima. I could see why Danyama was a popular spot for nature lovers; it offered a tranquil escape from the bustling art scene, a chance to reconnect with the natural world. I made a mental note to share this experience with Hans; he would love the views and the sense of accomplishment after the hike.

Reaching the summit, I was rewarded with an even more spectacular vista. From here, I could see almost the entire island, the museums and art installations nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant forests. It was a reminder that Naoshima was more than just an art destination; it was a place of incredible natural beauty, a harmonious blend of culture and nature. I thought about how different this was from my job back in Berlin, where I spend most of my days indoors. This trip was a reminder of the importance of nature and fresh air.

For lunch, I stopped at Chikurin, a local eatery known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. It was a cozy little place, run by a friendly elderly man. The atmosphere was unique and welcoming. I decided to try the sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to refuel after my hike, a taste of the local culture. I overheard some other tourists commenting on the generous portions, which I definitely appreciated after my active morning!


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Chikurin in Naoshima, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy izakaya setting.

In the afternoon, I made my way to the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower, another vantage point offering stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea. The tower itself was a simple structure, but the views from the top were simply magnificent. From here, I could see the coastline stretching out in all directions, the art installations dotting the landscape, and the ferries crisscrossing the water. It was a perfect spot to take photos and capture the essence of Naoshima. I even spotted some people enjoying the views from Shodoshima, a nearby island.


Discover breathtaking views and the serene beauty of Shodoshima at the Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower, an unforgettable tourist attraction.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I made a quick stop at pan tocori, a small bakery known for its delicious breads. It was a charming little shop, with a rustic, inviting atmosphere. I picked up a couple of pastries for a late-afternoon snack, the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the air. It was a delightful way to end my day of exploration, a sweet treat to savor as I reflected on my adventures. I've been trying to avoid sweets, but I deserved a treat today! The bread was carefully crafted and delicious.


Explore Pan Tocori, Naoshima's hidden gem bakery, offering a delightful array of artisanal breads and pastries amidst stunning island scenery.

As the sun began to set, I made my way back to my accommodation, feeling tired but incredibly fulfilled. Today had been a day of discovery, a chance to explore the natural beauty of Naoshima and reconnect with the simple pleasures of life. It was a reminder that travel was not just about seeing famous landmarks and museums, but also about experiencing the local culture, immersing oneself in nature, and finding moments of peace and tranquility.

Tomorrow marks the final day of my solo art exploration on Naoshima Island. I plan to visit Naoshima Hall, Perma_Naoshima, and Naoshima Yokocho. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Little Plum, lunch at Ishii Shouten, and a farewell dinner at Yuunagi. I might even check out the Naoshima Yokocho bar for a final taste of the island's nightlife. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm eager to soak up every last moment before heading back to Berlin. I'm already planning my next trip, perhaps with Hans this time, to share the magic of Naoshima with the one I love.

I am so grateful for this opportunity to explore Naoshima. It has been a truly transformative experience, one that has deepened my appreciation for art, nature, and the beauty of the world around us. Maybe I can convince Hans to join me next time!