Tomonoura
Also written: 鞆の浦 · 鞆之浦
A nostalgic seaside town preserving the atmosphere of an Edo-period port, known as an inspiration for the settings of Studio Ghibli films.
Another illustration of this place, under Famous Views →
An Illustrated Japan / Hiroshima / Townscape & Scenery
About this place
Tomonoura, at the southern tip of Fukuyama City, Hiroshima, is a preserved Edo-period port town that flourished as a waiting port for tides in the Seto Inland Sea, praised in the 8th-century Man'yoshu poems. The harbor still retains the 1859 stone lighthouse Joyato 3.8 m high, step-like gan-gi wharves, Namako walls and merchant houses designated as National Historic Site. In 2007 it was selected among 100 Best Historic Landscapes in Japan. Director Hayao Miyazaki stayed here and used it as a model for the town in 'Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea'. Off the coast lies Sensuijima, called the isle that intoxicates a hermit with beauty, and Bentenjima marking the harbor mouth. The port remains an active fishing port famous for sea bream and Homeishu sweet sake. Traffic congestion in the narrow historic streets was notorious, with 10,000 cars a day, leading to construction of the 2.1 km Tomo Mirai Tunnel opened March 30 2025, expected to cut through traffic by 67%. The port is 30 minutes by bus from Fukuyama Station, parking scarce on weekends, night illumination of Joyato, Tenmangu and theater. The museum of history and folk at 100 yen explains the Irohamaru incident with Sakamoto Ryoma, while Fukuzenji Taichoro guest hall served Korean envoys and offers superb view of Bentenjima, retaining Edo atmosphere perfect for strolling. Local specialty is sea bream cuisine and seaweed. Walking maze ideal for film. The area is well maintained with parking and toilets. Local cuisine and seasonal events enrich visit. Photography recommended early morning or sunset. Check tide tables and weather forecasts for best experience. Family friendly and accessible for most visitors with moderate walking. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers.
