Solo Art Exploration on Naoshima Island

Finding Peace in Art and Tea

Today was all about slowing down and truly absorbing the artistic essence of Naoshima. After several days of whirlwind exploration, I decided to dedicate today to more contemplative experiences, focusing on the Honmura district and its unique offerings. It turned out to be exactly what I needed—a day to recharge my spirit and connect with the island's soul.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Tee's DELI GROCERY. It’s a cozy little spot, and I opted for a simple but satisfying plate of toast with local jam and a strong coffee. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead. I was happy to support a local business, and the food was delicious [I'll have to remember to tell Hans about this Deli when I get back].

With a full stomach, I made my way to the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. I was intrigued by the concept of a bath infused with feng shui principles and medicinal herbs. The Cultural Melting Bath is based on feng shui principles and features a bath where the “qi” of the earth that flows along the mountain ridges. As it was Sunday, it was the perfect day to immerse myself in a herbal medicine bath and enjoy a tranquil moment of relaxation and self-reflection. It was a bit of a walk to get there, but the scenery was beautiful, and the anticipation kept me going. Nestled on the coastline, the location was indeed chosen for its dynamic energy flow. Unfortunately, the experience is available only for hotel guests of the Benesse House, which I am not. I was disappointed, but I decided to explore the surrounding area and appreciate the artwork from afar. It was still a worthwhile experience, and I made a mental note to consider staying at Benesse House next time to fully enjoy this unique offering.


Discover the Cultural Melting Bath in Naoshima, where art and nature converge for a tranquil and inspiring experience.

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

Next on my list was Drink a Cup of Tea, a piece by Kazuo Katase. Inspired by Zen monk Sengai Gibon, the teacup-shaped artwork contains real water. The artist created the work after being inspired by a ritual performed by a Zen monk, “Eat it and drink a cup of tea,” which is said to express spirits for seeking truth. It was incredibly peaceful to sit by the artwork, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and reflecting on the island's artistic spirit. The combination of art, nature, and traditional tea culture created a memorable experience. I took my time to relax and absorb the peaceful ambiance, and took some photos to remember the moment. The surrounding landscapes are simply stunning.


Experience the serene blend of art and tea at Naoshima's enchanting 'Drink a Cup of Tea' - a must-visit for art and tea lovers alike.
After my moment of zen, I headed to the Honmura Lounge & Archive. This space serves as both an information center for the Art House Project and a charming souvenir shop. The Art House Project involves the restoration of empty houses, turning them into art installations. I purchased a multi-site ticket, eager to explore these unique spaces. The Honmura Lounge itself was quite interesting, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, preserving much of the original architecture of what was once an agricultural cooperative supermarket. I spent some time browsing the shop, picking up a few postcards to send to friends and family back in Berlin. I think my mom would especially like the lotus flower one, a nod to my Vietnamese heritage.


Explore Naoshima's artistic essence at Honmura Lounge & Archive, where culture meets relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
For lunch, I decided to try EAT LOCAL 直島食堂, a restaurant recommended for its local cuisine. The restaurant was cozy, and I opted for a set meal featuring fresh seafood. It was simple, delicious, and felt very authentic. I enjoyed the experience of trying local flavors and soaking in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese eatery [Hans would have loved this place].


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 on Naoshima Island, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
In the late afternoon, I couldn't resist stopping by Cin.na.mon for a drink. It's a stylish bar located near Miyanoura Port, known for its unique ambiance and delicious curried seafood. I opted for a local beer and enjoyed the funky atmosphere, chatting with a few other travelers. I honestly cannot believe I almost went past this place. It's probably one of my favourite meals this trip. The vibe is very homely and the agedashi tofu is probably the best I've had. The curry is hearty. I honestly felt very much at home here. I made a mental note to return for dinner sometime during my stay.


Savor the essence of Japanese cuisine at Cin.na.mon, a charming cafe in the heart of Naoshima, where tradition meets modernity.
As the sun began to set, I took a leisurely stroll back to My Lodge Naoshima, reflecting on the day's experiences. The Cultural Melting Bath, Drink a Cup of Tea, Honmura Lounge & Archive, the delicious lunch at EAT LOCAL, and the relaxing drink at Cin.na.mon had all contributed to a day of cultural immersion and personal reflection. It was a day to slow down, appreciate the beauty around me, and connect with the artistic spirit of Naoshima.


Discover affordable comfort at My Lodge Naoshima, an ideal base for exploring the art-laden island while enjoying local cuisine and free parking.
Tomorrow, I plan to visit Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82, and Kasaneiwa. I'm also looking forward to having breakfast at Akaito Coffee, lunch at Gumbo Hut Shioya, and dinner at Yayoda. I also plan to visit Naoshima Shop Umihotaru. I'm excited to see what new experiences tomorrow will bring!
Naoshima continues to surprise and inspire me, and I can't wait to see what other hidden gems I'll discover during my remaining days on this enchanting island. This solo trip has been incredibly rewarding, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore and connect with art in such a unique and meaningful way.