Solo Art Adventure in Naoshima Island

Naoshima's Unexpected Charms

Today was all about diving deeper into Naoshima's artistic soul, beyond the famous museums and iconic pumpkins. It was a day of discovery, where I found art in the most unexpected places, blending seamlessly with the island's industrial past and present. It's amazing how this little island continues to surprise me at every turn. I'm excited to share my experiences with you, as I savor every moment of this solo adventure.

My day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at maimai. I decided to try their famous Naoshima Burger, a local fish burger with fresh Hamachi. The fluffy buns and homemade tartar sauce made it an unforgettable start to the day. Fuelled up, I set out to explore the more obscure corners of the island.


Discover Maimai: A charming hamburger café on Naoshima offering delicious meals amidst stunning art installations.

First stop: Shipyard Works by Shinro Otake. Now, this wasn't your typical pristine gallery. It was raw, it was real, and it was absolutely captivating. Otake has this incredible way of taking discarded materials and turning them into thought-provoking art. The structures, set against the backdrop of the sea, were dramatic, and I spent a good hour just wandering around, camera in hand, trying to capture the essence of the place.


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

Art isn't just about pretty pictures; it's about seeing the world in a new light, finding beauty in the unexpected, and questioning everything.

The integration of the shipyard's industrial heritage with Otake's artistic vision was seamless. It felt like the art had grown organically out of the landscape, a testament to the island's unique character. I found myself reflecting on the history of the place, the people who had worked there, and the stories embedded in the metal and wood. It was a powerful experience, far removed from the sterile environment of a traditional museum.

Next on the agenda was the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima. This was a completely different vibe altogether. Created by Cai Guo-Qiang, this outdoor installation was a serene oasis, a place for reflection and connection. The park was beautifully landscaped, with sculptures and installations nestled amongst the greenery. I took my time wandering through the pathways, soaking up the tranquility and admiring the way the art interacted with the natural surroundings.


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

I learned that the Cultural Melting Bath is actually a Jacuzzi surrounded by rocks imported from China. It operates for one hour on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and visitors can actually take a bath in it. You need to bring a bathing suit, and make a reservation, and it is only available for guests of the Benesse House. Unfortunately I visited on the wrong day and was not staying at the Benesse House, but I could still appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.

The Cultural Melting Bath served as a reminder of Naoshima's commitment to sustainability and community. It wasn't just about visual appeal; it was about creating a space for people to connect with art, nature, and each other. I sat there for a while, just listening to the rustling leaves and the gentle breeze, feeling a sense of peace wash over me.

For lunch, I ventured to Yayoda, a local seafood restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal dishes. I opted for the sashimi set, and it was an absolute delight. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were clean and vibrant. It was a simple meal, but it perfectly captured the essence of Naoshima – unpretentious, authentic, and delicious. I heard it can be difficult to get a table, so I was very lucky to be seated immediately.


Discover Yayoda: A seafood haven in Naoshima offering exquisite Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I made my way to EAT LOCAL 直島食堂 for dinner. This beachfront restaurant offered stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, and the menu was packed with local specialties. I decided to try their signature seafood bowl, and it was a symphony of flavors and textures. Each ingredient was carefully sourced and expertly prepared, showcasing the best of what Naoshima has to offer. I watched the sunset as I ate, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a special 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.

With my belly full and my soul nourished, there was only one thing left to do: find a place to unwind with a drink. I headed to Little Plum, a charming cafe-bar housed in a renovated marine container. It was the only place open late on the island, and it had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a Naoshima beer and settled in, listening to the mellow reggae music and chatting with some of the locals.


Discover the flavors of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local ingredients meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

The bar was located near the I Love Yu art installation and public bath, created by Shinro Ohtake, the same artist who created the Shipyard Works I visited earlier in the day. I Love Yu is a functioning bathhouse decorated with collages of ukiyo-e prints and vintage album covers, and a greenhouse with exotic plant life. It sounds like a place I must visit next time I'm in Naoshima.

As I sipped my beer, I reflected on the day's adventures. Naoshima had once again exceeded my expectations, revealing hidden layers of art and culture that I never knew existed. It's a place that rewards curiosity and encourages exploration, a place where you can truly lose yourself in the beauty of the moment.

I thought about Klara and Naomi back in Berlin. They would have loved exploring the island with me, discovering its hidden gems and savoring its local flavors. I made a mental note to plan a family trip here next summer, so they could experience the magic of Naoshima for themselves.

Tomorrow is my last day on Naoshima, and I plan to make the most of it. The itinerary includes visits to the Red Pumpkin and Danyama, and I'm excited to see what other surprises the island has in store. I'll be sure to grab breakfast at Tee's DELI GROCERY, lunch at Terrace Restaurant, and a final dinner at Luke's Pizza & Grill. I might even squeeze in a bit of souvenir shopping at the 7-Eleven Naoshima Shop. It's going to be a bittersweet day, saying goodbye to this enchanting island, but I know I'll be taking home memories that will last a lifetime.

Before heading back to my lodge, I took a moment to look up at the stars, feeling a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. As a chef, I often find inspiration in the flavors and textures of the places I visit, and Naoshima has been a feast for the senses. I can't wait to bring some of these experiences back to Yaad Vibes, infusing my dishes with the spirit of this unique island. I might even add a Naoshima Burger to the menu, a little taste of Japan in the heart of Berlin.


Discover affordable comfort at My Lodge Naoshima, an ideal base for exploring the art-laden island while enjoying local cuisine and free parking.

Until tomorrow, Naoshima. You've been a dream.