Art and Nature: A Solo Journey to Naoshima Island

Whispers of Teshima

Day five of my solo adventure in Japan unfolded on the tranquil island of Teshima, a place where art and nature intertwine in the most unexpected and harmonious ways. Leaving behind the bustling energy of Naoshima, I embarked on a ferry to Teshima, eager to discover the unique experiences that awaited me. Today promised a journey into the heart of contemporary art, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and serene coastal landscapes. It was a day of whispers, both literal and metaphorical, as I explored the island's hidden gems.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Yuunagi. I decided to have the Tamago Kake Gohan, a raw egg over rice, which some might find intimidating, but I found the simple dish to be quite satisfying, especially with a dash of soy sauce. I washed it down with a cup of green tea, preparing myself for a day of exploration. I made sure to pack my reusable water bottle, remembering my resolution to be as eco-conscious as possible during this trip. It was a beautiful morning, the air crisp and clean, hinting at the adventures to come.

My first stop was the renowned Teshima Art Museum. I had booked my ticket in advance, a tip I'd picked up from fellow travel bloggers, and I was glad I did. The museum operates on a reservation system, and I wouldn't have wanted to miss out. As I approached the museum, the architecture struck me immediately. Designed by Ryue Nishizawa, the building resembles a water droplet on the verge of landing. It's a seamless concrete structure, devoid of pillars, that blends effortlessly into the surrounding landscape of terraced rice fields. The whole setting was incredibly peaceful.


Discover the Teshima Art Museum, where contemporary art transcends into nature, creating an inspiring and tranquil experience on Teshima Island.

Inside, the museum houses a single artwork called 'Matrix' by Rei Naito. It's difficult to describe the experience in words. Two oval openings in the ceiling allow natural light, wind, and rain to enter the space, creating an ever-changing environment. Water continuously springs from the ground, forming small puddles that flow and merge across the floor. It's a meditative, almost spiritual experience, watching the water droplets dance and interact with the elements. I found myself lost in the moment, contemplating the beauty and impermanence of nature. I made sure to purchase the Teshima Art Museum Handbook from the museum shop, hoping to relive the experience through photographs and text.

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

After the Teshima Art Museum, I decided to explore more of the island. I rented an electric bicycle, a popular mode of transportation here, and set off towards my next destination: Walking Ark. The ride itself was a treat, the gentle breeze in my face as I cycled through the picturesque countryside. Teshima is a rural island, and the pace of life here is wonderfully slow.


Experience the harmony of art and nature at the Walking Ark, an open-air museum in Ogicho, Takamatsu, where creativity thrives.

Walking Ark, created by Keisuke Yamaguchi, is an outdoor sculpture inspired by Noah's Ark. It's located on a hill overlooking the sea, and from certain angles, it resembles a mountain range with legs, as if it's about to walk across the water. The artwork is a reminder of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, a poignant symbol of hope and resilience. I spent some time here, reflecting on the power of nature and the importance of community in the face of adversity. I made sure to take a few photos, but no image could truly capture the scale and impact of the sculpture.

From Walking Ark, I ventured towards La forêt des murmures (The Forest of Whispers), another art installation by Christian Boltanski. This involved a bit of a trek uphill, but the effort was well worth it. La forêt des murmures is located in a serene forest, a collection of metal poles each bearing a bell. As the wind blows, the bells chime, creating a chorus of whispers that echo through the trees. It's an eerie, yet beautiful experience, a reminder of the voices of the past and the stories they carry.


Immerse yourself in La forêt des murmures, a stunning art exhibit harmonizing nature and creativity in the heart of Tonosho, Kagawa.

I wandered through the forest, listening to the whispers, feeling a sense of connection to something larger than myself. The sun began to set, casting long shadows through the trees, adding to the mystical atmosphere. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the power of art to evoke emotion and inspire reflection. I was grateful for the opportunity to experience this unique installation, a hidden gem on the island of Teshima.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to the main port, stopping at Shimacoya for a bit of shopping. Shimacoya is a charming shop that sells local crafts, art books, and souvenirs. I picked up a few postcards and a small ceramic bell, a memento of my day in Teshima. The shop also has a small book cafe where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. I was tempted to stay longer, but I wanted to make sure I had time for dinner.


Discover Shimacoya: A unique café experience blending art, literature, and local crafts on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

For dinner, I had made a reservation at Perma_Naoshima, a restaurant known for its innovative take on Japanese cuisine. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, and the menu changes with the seasons. I ordered the chef's choice course, a multi-course meal that showcased the best of the region's seafood and vegetables. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of the island's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic ramen at Perma_Naoshima, where culinary tradition meets the artistic charm of Naoshima Island.

As I savored the last bite of my dessert, I reflected on my day in Teshima. It was a day of art, nature, and whispers, a journey into the heart of creativity and tranquility. Teshima is a special place, an island that nourishes the soul and inspires the mind. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience its magic, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Naoshima, visiting the Seaside Gallery, Honmura Lounge & Archive, and Gokurakuji Temple. I'm also looking forward to enjoying a drink at Kon'nichiwa, a local bar. But for tonight, I'll rest and dream of the whispers of Teshima.

Before heading back to My Lodge Naoshima, I took a moment to gaze at the stars, the sky was so clear and the stars seemed so close. I thought about how different Teshima is from Hamburg, my current city. I miss the urban beekeeping I do there, but the peace and quiet of Teshima is something I could get used to. Tomorrow, I'll be sure to pack my sunscreen and hat, learning from my oversight at the start of this trip. It’s these small lessons that make traveling such a valuable experience. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!


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

Today was a beautiful reminder that the most profound experiences often come from slowing down and immersing oneself in the present moment. I hope tomorrow brings more moments like these, as I continue my solo journey through Japan's art islands.