Tomonoura
2 tours available
Why Visit Tomonoura
Tomonoura is a tiny harbour town on the southern coast of Hiroshima Prefecture that has barely changed in 300 years. Its crescent-shaped port, stone sea walls, and wooden merchant houses create a townscape so perfectly preserved that Hayao Miyazaki reportedly stayed here while working on Ponyo, and the town is widely considered the film's visual inspiration.
Once a vital waiting port where ships paused for favourable tides on the Seto Inland Sea, Tomonoura now draws visitors for its timeless atmosphere and sweeping ocean views. The hilltop Fukuzenji Temple offers what is often called the most beautiful view in the Seto Inland Sea — a tableau of islands and fishing boats framed by the temple's tatami hall. Tomonoura rewards those willing to slow down.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March – May) — Cherry blossoms frame the harbour views. The annual Tai-ami (sea bream netting) festival in May revives a traditional fishing method from the Edo period.
Autumn (October – November) — Clear skies make the island-dotted seascape from Fukuzenji Temple most vivid. Mild temperatures are perfect for wandering the narrow lanes.
Year-round — The Seto Inland Sea climate keeps Tomonoura temperate. Weekday visits are best for experiencing the town's authentic quiet character.
Insider Tips
- Climb to Fukuzenji Temple in the late afternoon — the setting sun behind the islands creates the famed “most scenic view in the Seto Inland Sea.”
- Try houmeisuhu, Tomonoura's traditional herbal liqueur made from 16 medicinal ingredients — it has been produced here since the Edo period.
- Walk along the historic stone joyato lighthouse on the harbour breakwater — one of the oldest navigational lights in Japan, dating to 1859.
- Take the short ferry to Sensui-jima island for secluded beaches and coastal walking trails with views back to Tomonoura's harbour.
Tours Visiting Tomonoura
Setouchi Shores & Shikoku Heartlands
Setouchi Island Hopping
Island-hop through Setouchi's famous art islands, explore hidden gems like Tomonoura and Onomichi,and unwind in hot spring ryokans.15-day self-guided tour.
Setouchi Sea Paths & Historic Port Towns
Setouchi Island Hopping
Go beyond the typical Japan itinerary. This 11-day Setouchi tour features hidden port towns, scenic ferry rides,Hiroshima's peace memorials, and DogoOnsen.
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Region
Chugoku
Location
Available Tours
2 tours