Japan Day 8: Naoshima

I didn’t realize until yesterday that Naoshima Island isn’t just a pretty place—it’s a carefully curated art experience. These ten museums were designed by the architect Tadao Ando, and they’re seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Some are tucked underground or built into hills, so the island’s natural beauty and history remain untouched.

I’ve loved seeing people from all over the world gather here to enjoy and support art—and, by extension, to cultivate peace and harmony. On buses and in coffee shops, I’ve found myself speaking French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Everyone has been so warm and open. Art people are great. 😊

The Art House Project in the Honmura district is especially fascinating. Instead of building new structures, artists transformed old houses, a temple, and even a shrine into living works of art. Walking through them, you can feel both the creativity of the present and the echoes of the past.