Ask a Local: Your Top 5 Questions About Naoshima, Answered!
Guidebooks and websites are excellent for planning a trip, but what if you could get advice directly from someone who knows the ins and outs of a place? What if you could ask a local?
As someone who was born and raised right here on Naoshima, I’ve seen this island transform into the art destination it is today. I’ve watched the museums rise from the earth and the Art House Project breathe new life into our quiet streets. And through our “Finding Naoshima” tours, I’ve had the chance to answer hundreds of questions from visitors just like you.
So, I’ve compiled the five most common questions and answered them from a local’s perspective. My hope is that these insights will help you discover the Naoshima we, the locals, know and love.
Question 1: What’s the biggest mistake visitors make, and how can I avoid it?
The biggest mistake we see visitors make is trying to do too much in too little time. Naoshima is not a place to rush. It’s easy to get caught up in the checklist: “Chichu Art Museum, check. Benesse House, check. Art House Project, check.” When people try to visit every major site in just one day, they often end up exhausted and miss the island’s true charm.
My advice? Embrace “slow travel.” Pick one area of the island—like the Honmura district or the Benesse Art Site—and spend a day fully immersing yourself in it. Walk through the quiet alleys, sit on a bench and watch the fishermen, or find a small cafe to relax in. The real art of Naoshima is in its atmosphere, and that’s something you can only appreciate when you slow down.
Our tours are designed for this exact purpose. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience, helping you avoid the crowded times and discover the hidden moments of tranquility.
Question 2: What are your local secrets for enjoying the Benesse Art Site and Art House Project?
Most people see the art from the outside, but as a local, I believe the true experience is in the subtle details.
For the Art House Project, many visitors rush from one house to the next. But the real magic is in the space between the art. The Art House Project isn’t just a collection of installations; it’s a living part of the Honmura village. I remember playing in some of these very streets as a child. When you visit, take a moment to notice the sound of the wind, the texture of the old walls, and the life happening around you. The art and the village are one. For example, when you’re inside Go’o Shrine, listen for the way the glass staircase seems to hum with the island’s energy.
As for the Benesse Art Site, the outdoor sculptures aren’t just for looking. I’ve watched the famous Pumpkin change color with the seasons and the tide. A great tip is to visit the beach near the Benesse House Museum at sunrise or sunset. The light hitting the sculptures and the sea creates a completely different feeling than during the daytime.
Question 3: Besides art, what is a can’t-miss Naoshima experience only a local would know about?
While the art is what draws people here, the heart of Naoshima is in its daily life. The one experience I’d recommend above all else is to witness the rhythm of our fishing village.
Wake up early and walk to the Miyanoura or Honmura harbor just after sunrise. You’ll see the fishermen’s boats coming in with the morning catch. The air is fresh, and you get a glimpse into the industry that has sustained our island for generations. It’s a quiet, humbling sight that puts the whole island into perspective.
You can also wander into the local shokudo (diner) near the harbor. You might find yourself sharing a meal with a fisherman, eating the exact fish he caught just a few hours earlier. This is the real Naoshima, and it’s a beautiful thing to experience.
Question 4: Where are the best places to eat, and what local food should I try?
Many visitors go to the restaurants in the main tourist areas, and while they are great, I’d suggest you try a place where the locals go.
If you love udon, look for a small, family-run shop in the Miyanoura district that makes their noodles by hand. The flavor is simple but deep. For dinner, try a local izakaya (Japanese pub). The food is incredible, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
As for what to try, you have to eat our local seafood. The Seto Inland Sea is famous for its freshness. Look for dishes made with sawara (Japanese Spanish mackerel) or tai (sea bream). They are incredibly delicious when prepared simply, either grilled with salt or as fresh sashimi.
With so many wonderful places to eat on Naoshima, we know it can be a little overwhelming to choose. To help with that, we’ve created a list of recommended restaurants, organized by area. This article will help you find the perfect spot based on your location and taste!
👇Naoshima’s Best Restaurants, Picked by Area
Question 5: What’s the best souvenir to take home that isn’t a museum gift shop item?
Museum gift shops have some amazing items, but if you want something that truly represents Naoshima’s spirit, I recommend looking for something that celebrates our local culture and history.
Look for items made from our local soy sauce or seaweed. You can find unique gifts that capture the flavor of our island. I also highly recommend solashio, a salt made right here on Naoshima. Its large, crunchy flakes are incredibly delicious and make for a perfect souvenir.
Another great option is to find handmade crafts from local artisans. These are often sold in small, unassuming shops. They are not flashy, but they are a piece of our island’s soul.
These souvenirs aren’t just objects; they carry the stories of the people who made them and the traditions they represent. They are a real piece of Naoshima to take home with you.
The Finding Naoshima Tour Difference
The insights I’ve shared are just a small part of what we offer. In our “Finding Naoshima” tours, we don’t just guide you from one art site to the next; we share the heart and soul of our island.
We’ll tell you the stories behind the art that you won’t find in any guidebook. We’ll show you the hidden spots where we played as children and the places that hold our most cherished memories. Our tour is about more than sightseeing—it’s about connecting with Naoshima on a personal level.
We can’t wait to share our home with you.
About Our Tour called “Finding Naoshima Tour”
We also offer guided tours of Naoshima called “Finding Naoshima Tour”, a private tour service led by locals born and raised on Naoshima.
With deep roots in the island, we share Naoshima’s unique history, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery from a local perspective.
Whether it’s hidden photo spots, stories behind the artworks, or the charm of island life, we guide you through it all.
Each tour is fully private, allowing for a personalized and relaxed experience at your own pace.
Let us show you the real Naoshima—beyond the museums and into its heart.