Solo Art Adventure in Naoshima Island

Island Hopping and Artistic Wonders

Today, I ventured beyond Naoshima to its quieter, equally captivating neighbor, Teshima Island. My mission? To experience the renowned Teshima Art Museum. I was eager to see how Teshima's art scene compared to Naoshima's, and I must say, it was a day filled with unexpected discoveries and tranquil moments.

My day started with breakfast at Perma_Naoshima. It’s a cozy spot, and I was ready to fuel up for a day of island exploration. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. It was simple, hearty, and just what I needed to kickstart my day.

After breakfast, I made my way to the ferry terminal. The ferry ride to Teshima was short, about 20 minutes, but the views of the Seto Inland Sea were stunning. The water was calm, and the islands dotted around us looked like emerald jewels scattered across a blue canvas. As we approached Teshima, I could already feel the island's serene atmosphere washing over me.

First stop: the Teshima Art Museum. From the port, I hopped on a bus that took me closer to the museum. Even the bus ride was a treat, winding through lush greenery and past traditional Japanese houses. I could feel the contrast between Berlin and this peaceful island growing with every passing minute.

The Teshima Art Museum is an experience unlike any other. Designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa and artist Rei Naito, the museum is a single, open space that blurs the line between art and nature. The building itself is shaped like a water droplet, with two large openings in the ceiling that allow natural light, wind, and rain to enter. Inside, tiny droplets of water emerge from the floor, creating a mesmerizing and meditative environment.

The essence of art lies not in what we see, but in how it makes us feel.

It's hard to describe the feeling of being inside the Teshima Art Museum. It's a space that invites contemplation and introspection. I sat there for a long time, simply observing the play of light and shadow, listening to the sounds of nature, and watching the water droplets dance across the floor. It was a truly immersive experience, one that reminded me of the beauty and simplicity of life.

After the Teshima Art Museum, I was ready for lunch. I headed to Aisunao, a charming restaurant in the Honmura district. It's located in a beautifully renovated traditional house, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I ordered the vegan lunch set, which was a delightful array of small dishes featuring local, organic vegetables and brown rice. It was healthy, delicious, and a perfect reflection of the island's commitment to sustainability.

With a full stomach and a refreshed spirit, I made my way back to Naoshima. My next stop was Miyanoura Gallery 6, located in the Miyanoura district, close to the ferry terminal. This gallery is housed in a renovated pachinko parlor, a former amusement arcade, which gives it a unique and quirky vibe. The architect, Taira Nishizawa, has done a fantastic job of transforming the space into a contemporary art venue while retaining some of its original character.


Discover contemporary art in a serene setting at Miyanoura Gallery 6 on Naoshima, a unique blend of nature and creativity.

Miyanoura Gallery 6 is dedicated to showcasing the work of local and international artists, with a focus on community engagement. The exhibitions are diverse and thought-provoking, and the gallery also hosts workshops and events for both locals and visitors. When I visited, there was an exhibition featuring photographs of Naoshima taken by cameras made from flotsam. It was intriguing to see the island through such unique lenses.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I had dinner at Nagomi. It’s located in the town's welfare center, offering a casual and communal dining experience. The menu features set meals with local ingredients, and it’s a great place to mingle with the locals. I had a delicious fish set meal, and the friendly atmosphere made it a memorable end to the day.


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

As I walked back to my lodge, I reflected on the day's experiences. Teshima and Naoshima offer distinct but complementary art experiences. Teshima is all about tranquility and immersion, while Naoshima is more diverse and dynamic. Both islands have their unique charm, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to explore them.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Naoshima's art scene by visiting George Rickey Three Squares Vertical Diagonal and the Art House Project: Haisha. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Honmura Lounge & Archive in the evening. Another day of artistic adventures awaits, and I can't wait to see what Naoshima has in store for me.

This trip has been a great experience so far. It reminds me of why I love to travel and experience new things. Back in Berlin, things can get a little hectic with the restaurant and family life. Klara is always busy with her coding, and Naomi is growing up so fast. It's important to take these moments to recharge and find inspiration. Maybe I can bring some of this artistic vibe back to Yaad Vibes and create something special for my customers. Until tomorrow, stay tuned for more art and island adventures!