Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Finding Peace and Art in Unexpected Corners of Naoshima

Today was a day of quiet exploration, a chance to delve deeper into Naoshima's serene atmosphere beyond the main museums. I set out with no grand expectations, just a desire to wander and see what hidden gems I could uncover. It turned out to be a day filled with simple pleasures and unexpected artistic encounters, a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Nagomi. Located in the Naoshima General Welfare Centre, it was a bit off the beaten path, but definitely worth the detour. The set meal was simple but satisfying, and the ocean view added a touch of serenity to the start of my day. It felt like a local secret, away from the tourist crowds. I was fueled up and ready to explore!

My first stop was Gokurakuji Temple. Tucked away near the Ando Museum, it offered a moment of quiet contemplation. The temple grounds were peaceful, and I took some time to reflect. It's amazing how these quiet places can offer a sense of calm amid a busy trip. I lit some incense and said a small prayer for my family back in Berlin, hoping they are all doing well. Hans would have loved this place, I thought. He always appreciates the simple, uncluttered beauty of temples.


Discover the serene beauty of Gokurakuji Temple in Naoshima, a peaceful Buddhist sanctuary steeped in history and surrounded by nature's tranquility.

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

Next on my itinerary was Shipyard Works by Shinro Ohtake. These intriguing sculptures, crafted from remnants of a shipyard, stood as a testament to the island's industrial past transformed into art. The structures were both imposing and strangely beautiful, a blend of the man-made and the natural. It's fascinating how Ohtake repurposed these materials, giving them a new life and meaning. I was particularly struck by how the art pieces integrated with the coastal landscape, creating a dialogue between industry and nature. It reminded me of some of the repurposed industrial spaces in Berlin, now thriving as cultural hubs.


Experience the transformative power of art at Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake, a unique exhibit blending creativity with Naoshima's serene coastal beauty.

I then popped into Shimacoya for a little afternoon shopping. The shop was so quaint and cozy, filled with books and local crafts. It was the perfect place to pick up a small memento of my time on Naoshima. I ended up buying a beautiful handmade pottery piece, a small bowl with a delicate blue glaze. It will be a lovely reminder of this peaceful island when I'm back in busy Berlin. I also browsed through the used books, finding a Japanese edition of a Hermann Hesse novel – a nod to my current home in Germany, I suppose!


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

For lunch, I decided to try New Olympia, a sushi restaurant recommended by several locals. The reviews were right – the sushi was incredibly fresh, and the homemade meal was a delight. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional vibe, and the family running it was so welcoming. I savored every bite, appreciating the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. It was a truly authentic Japanese dining experience. I wish Hans was here to enjoy this with me, he would love the fresh sashimi.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

My final stop for the day was Walking Ark, an open-air museum featuring a collection of unique sculptures blending art with nature. The sculptures were whimsical and thought-provoking, and the setting was stunning, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. I wandered through the exhibits, marveling at the creativity and ingenuity of the artists. It was a perfect way to end a day of artistic exploration. It made me think about how art can transform a place, giving it new meaning and purpose.


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

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Chikurin for dinner. This cozy izakaya was another local favorite, known for its delicious dishes and warm hospitality. I ordered a selection of small plates, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the other diners. It felt like a true taste of Naoshima's community spirit. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes when I get back to Berlin.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the Honmura area, visiting the Cultural Melting Bath Project and the Honmura Lounge & Archive. I'm also looking forward to trying some local tea. Naoshima continues to surprise and delight me with its unique blend of art, nature, and community. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires creativity. I am excited for what tomorrow will bring!

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the importance of solo travel. It's given me time to reflect, to connect with myself, and to appreciate the simple joys of life. As a geriatric nurse, I spend so much time caring for others that it's easy to forget about my own needs. This trip has been a chance to recharge, to rediscover my passions, and to return to Berlin feeling refreshed and inspired. Maybe Hans and I can come back here together someday. He would love the art and the peaceful atmosphere. And maybe, just maybe, we can even convince him to try some sushi!