Solo Art Adventure in Naoshima Island

Arrival in Artistic Paradise

Touching down in Naoshima felt like stepping into a living canvas. After the initial journey from Berlin to Tokyo and then the train and ferry, I was finally here, ready to dive headfirst into the island's celebrated art scene. The air was thick with anticipation, a blend of sea breeze and creative energy. I couldn't wait to explore the museums, installations, and unique culture that awaited me.

My first day on Naoshima was nothing short of transformative. Leaving behind the familiar hustle of Berlin and Yaad Vibes, my Jamaican restaurant, I was ready to immerse myself in a world where art and nature dance in perfect harmony. This solo trip was a chance to recharge my creative batteries, to find inspiration in the unexpected, and to simply get lost in the beauty of a place so different from my everyday life. It’s a long way from Linstead, Jamaica, where I grew up, but I felt a familiar sense of community and warmth already.

After dropping my bags at My Lodge Naoshima, a cozy and budget-friendly spot, I was eager to start exploring. The lodge is conveniently located, making it easy to access the island's main attractions.


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

I grabbed a quick breakfast at APRON CAFE. Fuelled up with a strong coffee, I set off to experience Naoshima's unique blend of art and architecture.

My first stop was the Ando Museum, dedicated to the work of the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The museum itself is a masterpiece, a seamless blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern architectural innovation. From the outside, it appears as a traditional wooden house, blending into the surrounding Honmura district. But stepping inside is like entering another world. The interior is a labyrinth of concrete walls, hidden passages, and unexpected openings, all orchestrated to create a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow.


Discover the Ando Museum in Naoshima, a stunning fusion of contemporary art and architecture by Tadao Ando, set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

The contrast between the traditional exterior and the modern interior was striking, a physical representation of Naoshima's ability to bridge the old and the new. I spent a good hour wandering through the museum, admiring the photographs and models of Ando's other projects on the island. It was a fantastic introduction to the architectural vision that defines much of Naoshima's artistic landscape. The way Ando uses light is just masterful, almost spiritual. It reminded me of how we try to balance the old and new in Yaad Vibes, keeping the heart of Jamaican cooking alive while adding our own modern twists.

Art isn't just something you look at; it's something you experience, something that changes the way you see the world.

Next on my list was the Benesse House Museum, a place where art and accommodation come together. Designed by Tadao Ando, the Benesse House is more than just a museum; it's a hotel, a work of art, and a seamless integration of nature and creativity. The museum is perched on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, offering breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility. As I wandered through the galleries, I was struck by the diversity of the artwork on display, from paintings and sculptures to installations and photography. The pieces were carefully chosen to complement the architecture and the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious and immersive experience.


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

One of the highlights was Yayoi Kusama's Yellow Pumpkin, a vibrant, polka-dotted sculpture that has become an iconic symbol of Naoshima. Perched at the end of a pier, the pumpkin seemed to pulse with energy, its bright yellow color contrasting beautifully with the blue sea and sky. I spent a good while just sitting there, soaking in the view and contemplating the meaning of the artwork. It's amazing how a simple object can evoke such a strong emotional response.

The museum also features works by renowned artists like Richard Long and Hiroshi Sugimoto, each piece carefully placed to interact with the architecture and the natural environment. I was particularly drawn to Sugimoto's 'Time Exposed' series, the sprawling ocean views adding depth to the art on the walls. The way the art coexists with the architecture is just incredible. It doesn't feel like isolated installations; instead, each piece complements the building and the environment, creating a natural rhythm that encourages exploration and contemplation.

After a day of exploring, I was ready for a hearty meal. I stopped by Little Plum for lunch, a cozy spot known for its local flavors and warm hospitality.


Experience the essence of Naoshima at Little Plum, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a serene setting.

Refreshed, I continued my exploration of the island. As evening approached, I treated myself to sushi at New Olympia. The sushi was incredibly fresh, a testament to the island's proximity to the sea. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, architecture, and natural beauty.


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

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I decided to check out Bar SARU, the only bar on the island open late. It was a great spot to unwind, sip on a local Naoshima beer, and chat with some of the other travelers.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Naoshima at Bar SARU, where local beers and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

Reflecting on my first day, I realized that Naoshima is more than just an island; it's a sanctuary for the soul. The seamless blend of art, architecture, and nature creates an atmosphere of tranquility and inspiration. It's a place where you can slow down, reconnect with yourself, and discover new perspectives. I can already tell that this solo trip is going to be a transformative experience.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Chichu Art Museum and the Yellow Pumpkin. I’m also looking forward to trying breakfast at Café Ippo, lunch at Chikurin, and dinner at Cin.na.mon. Before dinner, I plan to check out the Benesse House Shop for some souvenirs. I can't wait to see what other artistic treasures Naoshima has in store for me.

Naoshima is hosting the Setouchi Triennale 2025, a contemporary art festival held across multiple sessions. I am here during the Summer session, and I plan to explore as much of the festival as possible.

The island itself is a living, breathing work of art, constantly evolving and inspiring those who visit. It's a place where creativity knows no bounds, and where the beauty of nature is celebrated in all its glory. It's an experience I know I'll carry with me long after I leave.