Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tomonoura is an old port town in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is a tourist destination with a view overlooking the calm Seto Inland Sea and a townscape from the Edo to Meiji periods that remains well preserved. With a history of prosperity thanks to shipping (maritime transport), stone streetlights, old merchant houses, and temples and shrines are scattered along the bay. The scenery where the sea and town blend together, as well as the beauty of the evening and morning views, are particularly appealing, and the town is also known as one of the models for director Hayao Miyazaki's animated film, "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea."
Highlights
- Port town scenery around the Joyato lighthouse: The Edo period stone lanterns, narrow alleys, and rows of fishing boats make this a popular photo spot.
- Fukuzenji Temple and Taichoro: Known for its shoin study and garden overlooking the sea, you can enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea islands and bays (please check the opening hours and fees).
- Stroll through old merchant houses and townhouses: It's fun to stroll through the alleys, which feature cafes and souvenir shops that have been converted from old houses, and traditional townscapes.
- Pleasure boats and bay cruises: There are small sightseeing boat tours that take you around the bay and the surrounding islands, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from a different angle (times may vary depending on the season and operating conditions).
- Seafood: You can enjoy set meals, sushi, and seasonal seafood made with fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + BusGet off at JR Sanyo Main Line Fukuyama Station and take the bus bound for Tomonoura for approximately 30-40 minutes (please note that there are limited buses, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance).
- car: Approximately 30 minutes from Fukuyama Higashi IC or Fukuyama Nishi IC on the Sanyo Expressway. There is a paid parking lot near Tomonoura (it may be full during busy times).
- others: It is sometimes used as a day trip route from Onomichi or Kurashiki, or as part of a Setouchi cruise. There are times when there are fewer public transport services, so please check the return trip timetable in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 1-1.5 hours (around the Joyato light area)
- A leisurely tour of the main spots: 2-4 hours (including visiting Fukuzenji Temple, strolling around the town, and eating)
- Relaxing stay: We recommend staying overnight and enjoying the sunset and sunrise views and island hopping.
Nearby spots
- Fukuyama Castle: A castle located near Fukuyama Station. It is convenient to combine sightseeing with Tomonoura.
- Innoshima/Onomichi direction: You can take a stroll around the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the old townscape and slopes of Onomichi.
- Seto Inland Sea Island Cruise: There are boats and tours to the surrounding small islands (depending on the season and operating conditions).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: On weekends, holidays, Golden Week, and summer vacation, the number of tourists increases, and parking lots and restaurants become crowded. Please consider using public transportation and leaving earlier.
- Consideration of alleys and community roads：There are many narrow alleys and residential areas, so please be considerate of local residents by not making noise or leaving trash behind. When taking photos, be careful not to enter residents' private property or living spaces.
- Check transportation options: The number of buses and sightseeing boats varies depending on the season and day of the week. Please check the timetable in advance to avoid missing your return trip.
- Barrier-free: There are many cobblestone streets, slopes, and stairs, and some areas may be difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers. Please check the route and facility availability in advance.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, take measures against the heat and direct sunlight, and in winter, the sea breeze can make the temperature feel lower. Since seafood is often raw, if you have allergies or are concerned about eating raw seafood, choose cooked seafood.
(Additional Information) Before visiting, it's a good idea to check the latest opening hours, fees, and transportation information at the tourist information center or the official website of each facility. Tomonoura is a charming town with picturesque scenery and local culture, so take your time walking around and enjoy the scenery and local cuisine.
