Family Adventure to Naoshima's Art Island

A Day of Artistic Immersion in Naoshima

Today, Naoshima revealed more of its artistic soul, blending modern art with the island's tranquil atmosphere. It was a day of exploration, delicious food, and quiet contemplation, shared with my wonderful family. The beauty of this island continues to captivate us, making our family adventure truly special.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at maimai. The weather was pleasant, so we sat on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the laid-back ambiance and music. I opted for the fish burger, made with fried yellowtail, which was light and flavorful. Sri enjoyed a coffee while Bagus tried one of the local craft beers. It was the perfect start to a day filled with art and exploration.


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

Our first stop was the Ando Museum, a place that perfectly encapsulates Tadao Ando's architectural vision. From the outside, it appears as a traditional 100-year-old wooden house, blending seamlessly with the surrounding townscape of Honmura. However, stepping inside is like entering another world. The interior is a series of concrete spaces, masterfully articulated by natural light. The contrast between the traditional exterior and the modern interior is striking and thought-provoking. I found myself admiring the way Ando integrates his signature concrete with the existing structure, creating a space that feels both intimate and expansive.


Explore the Ando Museum in Naoshima, where contemporary art meets innovative architectural design amidst serene natural beauty.

Art doesn't need to be locked away in galleries to be profound; it can sit by the sea, fade in the rain, glow in the sunset, and still move us.

Next, we ventured to the iconic Red Pumpkin near Miyanoura Port. This sculpture by Yayoi Kusama is one of the first things you see when arriving by ferry, and it’s hard to miss. Covered in bold black polka dots, the vibrant red pumpkin stands out against the blues of the sea and sky. What makes it even more intriguing is that you can actually step inside. Walking through the dotted apertures, the surrounding scenery is distorted, offering a unique perspective of the island. Bagus was particularly fascinated by this, snapping photos from every angle. Sri and I enjoyed watching his enthusiasm, feeling grateful for these shared moments.


Explore the vibrant Red Pumpkin in Naoshima, a masterpiece of contemporary art by Yayoi Kusama, set against stunning coastal views.

After the Red Pumpkin, we were ready for lunch. We chose Kinosaki Udon Naoshima, a popular spot known for its handmade udon and delicious tempura. This cozy eatery is frequented by locals, which is always a good sign. The udon had a wonderful springy texture, and the tempura was perfectly crispy. I opted for the niku-udon (udon with beef), while Sri tried the kake-udon (simple warm udon with broth). Bagus, ever adventurous, went for the ontama-niku-bukkake (niku-bukkake with a soft-boiled egg). We all agreed that it was one of the most satisfying meals we’ve had on the trip so far.


Experience authentic Japanese udon noodles at Kinosaki Udon Naoshima - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore Miyanoura Gallery 6. This unique space, designed by architect Taira Nishizawa, was transformed from a former pachinko parlor. The gallery aims to create a space where visitors and locals can come together and relax while enjoying art. The current exhibition, the Setouchi Archive, features research and materials related to the Seto Inland Sea’s landscape, culture, and history. I found it fascinating to delve into the region's past, gaining a deeper understanding of the island's identity. Sri enjoyed browsing the collected books and photo albums, while Bagus was intrigued by the architectural transformation of the building.


Discover the intersection of art and nature at Miyanoura Gallery 6, a serene destination on Naoshima Island showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in some pre-dinner drinks at Cin.na.mon. This stylish restaurant and bar near Miyanoura Port offers a unique dining experience with traditional tatami rooms. We didn't opt for the tatami rooms, instead sitting at the bar and enjoying the funky ambiance. I tried the Naoshima curry, made with fresh local seafood, while Sri enjoyed a glass of local sake. Bagus opted for a non-alcoholic beverage, and we all enjoyed the lively atmosphere.


Savor the essence of Japanese cuisine at Cin.na.mon, a charming cafe in the heart of Naoshima, where tradition meets modernity.

For dinner, we chose RestaurantEN, hoping to experience more of Naoshima’s culinary delights. We were not disappointed. The restaurant is known for its innovative dishes that highlight local ingredients. I opted for a seafood dish, while Sri chose a vegetarian option. Bagus, of course, went for the most adventurous item on the menu. The food was beautifully presented, and the flavors were exquisite. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with artistic and cultural immersion.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at this charming restaurant in Naoshima, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As we walked back to My Lodge Naoshima, the island was quiet and peaceful. The stars were out, and the air was fresh. I reflected on the day’s experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family. Naoshima has a way of slowing things down, allowing you to appreciate the simple things in life. The blend of art, nature, and culture is truly unique, making it a destination that nourishes the soul.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Cultural Melting Bath: Project for Naoshima, Naoshima Fishing Park, and Shihōzashi Sightseeing Tower. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can’t wait to see what Naoshima has in store for us.

Naoshima continues to surprise and delight. It’s a place where art is not confined to museums but spills out into the streets, the beaches, and the very fabric of daily life. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with something larger than yourself. And it’s a place that I’m so glad to be sharing with my family.

I am particularly excited about the Setouchi Triennale that is happening here in 2025, with art installations across seventeen islands. I'm also looking forward to the opening of the new Naoshima Art Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, which is set to open in spring 2025 and will showcase works from various Asian artists. It seems Naoshima is increasingly becoming a hub for art, architecture, and community life.

I am curious to see how these events will shape the artistic landscape of this already vibrant island and how they will further engage both local residents and international visitors. From what I've gathered, the new museum aims to foster a dynamic cultural experience, encouraging repeat visits and creating a dialogue between art, architecture, nature, and society. It’s an exciting prospect, and I am eager to witness it firsthand.

The essence of Naoshima lies not just in its art, but in the seamless blend of art, architecture, and the natural environment. It's this harmonious coexistence that makes Naoshima a truly special place, and I am grateful to be experiencing it with my family.