Family Adventure to Naoshima's Art Island

First Impressions: Naoshima's Artistic Embrace

After a long journey from Toronto, involving a flight to Tokyo, a train to Okayama, and finally a ferry to Naoshima, we arrived, eager to dive into the island's renowned art scene. I was especially excited, having read so much about the unique blend of art and nature that Naoshima offers. As a software developer with a love for cultural experiences, I felt like a kid in a candy store, ready to explore every corner of this artistic haven with Sri and Bagus. The air was fresh, carrying a hint of the sea, and the promise of artistic discovery hung in the air.

Our first day on Naoshima was nothing short of spectacular. After settling into My Lodge Naoshima, which was perfect for our budget and close to everything, we set off to explore. The weather in June is pleasantly warm, though with a chance of rain, so we were prepared with our light jackets, just in case. The humidity was noticeable, but the excitement kept us going. We grabbed a quick breakfast at APRON CAFE, a cozy spot that fueled us up for the day ahead.


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

Benesse House Museum: Where Art Meets Accommodation

Our first major stop was the Benesse House Museum. The architecture, designed by Tadao Ando, was stunning, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. The museum itself is a work of art, and it was fascinating to see how the art pieces interacted with the space. Sri was particularly taken by the Niki de Saint Phalle sculptures, their vibrant colors popping against the serene backdrop of the Inland Sea. Bagus, ever the curious one, was intrigued by the more conceptual pieces, sparking some interesting discussions about the meaning of art.


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

Wandering through the museum, I was struck by the diversity of the art on display. From Warhol to Hockney, the collection was a testament to the power of human creativity. The outdoor sculptures were equally impressive, each piece thoughtfully placed to complement the surrounding environment. As we strolled through the grounds, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. This was exactly the kind of experience I had hoped for, a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with art and nature.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

We also visited the Benesse House Shop, picking up a few souvenirs to remind us of our visit. Bagus chose a quirky sculpture replica, while Sri found a beautiful scarf inspired by one of the paintings. I opted for a book about Tadao Ando's architecture, eager to learn more about his design philosophy.


Explore the artistic offerings of Benesse House Shop in Naoshima, a unique souvenir store celebrating local art and craftsmanship with exclusive pieces.

Chichu Art Museum: Subterranean Wonders

Next on our itinerary was the Chichu Art Museum. This museum is unique in that it is built almost entirely underground, with natural light illuminating the artworks. The approach to the museum was an experience in itself, a winding path through a garden of vibrant flowers and lush greenery. The air was still and quiet, creating a sense of anticipation as we approached the entrance.


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

Inside, we were greeted by a series of minimalist spaces, each designed to showcase a specific artwork. The highlight for me was the room dedicated to Claude Monet's Water Lilies. Bathed in soft, natural light, the paintings seemed to come alive, their colors shimmering and shifting with the changing light. It was a truly immersive experience, one that transported me to Monet's garden in Giverny.

Bagus was particularly impressed by the James Turrell installations, which played with light and perception in fascinating ways. Sri, on the other hand, was captivated by the Walter De Maria piece, a large, geometric sculpture that filled an entire room. The museum's cafe offered stunning views of the Inland Sea, and we enjoyed a light lunch there, savoring the moment and reflecting on the art we had seen.

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Naoshima

For lunch, we tried Cin.na.mon, known for its delicious seafood curry. It was a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a morning of art exploration.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors in an artistic setting at Cin.na.mon, Naoshima's charming café and restaurant.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to New Olympia for dinner, indulging in some of the freshest sushi I've ever tasted. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. The sushi chefs were true artists, crafting each piece with precision and care. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

Reflections on Day One

Naoshima has exceeded all my expectations. The island is a true gem, a place where art, nature, and culture come together in perfect harmony. As we walked back to our lodge, the stars twinkled above us, and the gentle sound of the waves lapped against the shore. I felt a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to share this experience with my family. Sri and Bagus were equally enthralled, and we all agreed that this was a trip we would cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Art House Project in Honmura, visit the Lee Ufan Museum, and of course, see the iconic Yellow Pumpkin. I’m also hoping to check out Bar SARU for a nightcap. I can't wait to see what other treasures Naoshima has in store for us.

Here's to more art, more adventure, and more unforgettable memories on Naoshima Island!

“The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” ― Pablo Picasso