Solo Art and Culinary Exploration on Naoshima Island

Naoshima's Artistic Embrace

Today marked the beginning of my Naoshima adventure, a journey I've eagerly anticipated for months. As a chef, I'm always looking for inspiration, and I knew this island, with its unique blend of art and nature, would provide a feast for the senses. I was excited to see how the art would influence my culinary perspective, and perhaps even inspire new dishes when I return to my restaurant in Leipzig. The day was ambitious, packed with visits to three of the island's most renowned museums: Benesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum, and the Lee Ufan Museum.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at APRON CAFE. Tucked away in a narrow alleyway in Honmura, the cafe exuded a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The cafe’s simplicity was refreshing, and I enjoyed a nutritious meal prepared with local, seasonal ingredients. It was a great way to start the day, fueling up for the artistic explorations ahead. The cafe also displayed artwork from local artists, further immersing me in the island's creative spirit.

First on the itinerary was the Benesse House Museum. Designed by the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando, the museum is a stunning blend of art, architecture, and nature. As I approached the museum, I was immediately struck by how seamlessly it integrated into the landscape. The building itself is a work of art, with its clean lines and concrete walls.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

Inside, the museum houses a diverse collection of contemporary art, including works by Andy Warhol, David Hockney, and Jasper Johns. The pieces were thoughtfully curated, each engaging with the natural environment in a unique way. What struck me most was the way the museum used natural light to illuminate the artwork, creating a dynamic viewing experience that changed throughout the day.

Art doesn't just reflect the world, it invites us to reimagine it.

After immersing myself in the indoor exhibits, I ventured outside to explore the art installations scattered across the shoreline and forest. The most iconic of these is Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin. Perched at the end of a pier, the vibrant, polka-dotted sculpture has become a symbol of Naoshima. It was a surreal experience standing next to this whimsical creation, with the sea stretching out before me. The Benesse House Shop provided a chance to pick up a few mementos, and I couldn't resist buying a small print of one of the sculptures I had seen.

Next, I headed to the Chichu Art Museum. Also designed by Tadao Ando, this museum is built largely underground to minimize its impact on the landscape. The architecture is breathtaking, with its concrete walls and carefully designed openings that allow natural light to filter in. The museum houses a small but impressive collection of works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Monet's Water Lilies were particularly captivating, displayed in a room that was designed specifically to showcase these masterpieces. The way the natural light illuminated the paintings was mesmerizing, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

The James Turrell exhibit was equally impressive, using light as a medium to create immersive and thought-provoking installations. I found myself lost in the play of light and shadow, questioning my perception of reality. The Walter De Maria installation, with its geometric forms and sphere, was a powerful statement on the relationship between nature and technology.

For lunch, I stopped by Cin.na.mon, a charming cafe known for its Japanese curries and seafood. The cafe had a funky and inviting atmosphere, and I was immediately drawn to the aroma of spices. I ordered the Naoshima seafood curry, which was packed with fresh, local seafood. The curry was flavorful and satisfying, providing the perfect energy boost for the afternoon ahead. I made a mental note to try and recreate this dish back in my own kitchen, perhaps with a Nepali twist.

My final stop of the day was the Lee Ufan Museum. This museum, another collaboration between artist Lee Ufan and architect Tadao Ando, is a tranquil space dedicated to the works of Lee Ufan, a leading figure in the Mono-ha movement. The museum is nestled in a gentle valley, surrounded by hills and the ocean, creating a sense of harmony between nature, architecture, and art.


Explore the serene Lee Ufan Museum in Naoshima, where modern art meets nature in a harmonious blend of minimalism and tranquility.

Lee Ufan's art is minimalist, often using natural materials like stone and wood in combination with industrial elements. His works invite contemplation, encouraging viewers to reflect on the relationship between the self and the world. As I wandered through the museum, I felt a sense of peace and quiet, a welcome respite from the bustling world outside. The museum shop offered a selection of unique items, including handkerchiefs and scarves designed by Lee Ufan himself.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to New Olympia for dinner. This local izakaya, run by a father-son duo, is known for its delicious sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and I felt immediately at home. I ordered a selection of sushi, all made with fresh, local seafood. The flavors were exquisite, and I savored every bite. The server was proficient in English and guided me through the menu, recommending several seasonal dishes. It was the perfect way to end a day of artistic immersion.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Art House Project, visiting Go'o Shrine, Minamidera, and Haisha. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at Bar SARU in the evening. I’m eager to see how these more intimate, community-based art installations compare to the grand museums I visited today. It's these contrasts, I suspect, that make Naoshima such a compelling destination. For now, though, I'll rest and reflect on the beauty I've encountered today, letting it all simmer and perhaps influence my culinary creations in ways I can't yet imagine. The blend of art, architecture, and nature here is truly inspiring, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I'm also jotting down notes in my notebook, eager to incorporate new flavors and techniques into my cooking back in Leipzig.