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Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
Step back in time on a private tour to Tomonoura, a historic port town known for its preserved streets, seaside views, and nostalgic atmosphere.
This experience is guided by a Hiroshima-born Japanese local, offering an authentic perspective rooted in regional history and everyday life.
Once an important harbor where ships waited for the tides, Tomonoura retains much of its old-town charm. Walk through narrow lanes, visit coastal viewpoints, and learn how maritime history shaped the town’s culture and way of life. The town’s timeless scenery famously inspired Studio Ghibli’s film Ponyo.
Rather than rushing through major sights, this tour focuses on depth and atmosphere. Your guide shares stories of local life, traditions, and history that bring meaning to what you see.
As this is a fully private tour, the itinerary is flexible and adjusted to your interests and pace.
Ideal for travelers looking to experience a quieter, more traditional side of Japan beyond major tourist routes.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
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1Fukuyama Station
Fukuyama Station is a 20-30 minute ride on the Shinkansen bullet train from Hiroshima. Your guide will be waiting for you just outside the ticket gates. From here we will take a bus to Tomonoura.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Tomo no Ura
Wander through the charming port town of Tomonoura, home to Japan's only surviving Edo-period port facilities — beautifully preserved, offering a rare glimpse into the days of the Shogun era.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Joyato Stone Lighthouse
Joyato Stone Lighthouse from the Shogun era. It is one of the largest surviving ones in Japan and also the symbol of Tomonoura. The smell of the ocean, the sound of the waves, the photogenic scenery — these elements will purify your mind.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Ota House
Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Delve deeper into history with a visit to the Ota Family Residence, where you'll experience the elegant lifestyle of the Edo period.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5Houmeishu Irie Toyosaburo Honten
Stroll through the town's quiet streets, stopping by ancient temples and a traditional brewery crafting Homeishu — a famed medicinal rice wine. Chatting with locals will make your trip even more meaningful!
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Tomo no Ura
Grab lunch or a drink at a local restaurant or café. Specialties include tai chazuke, fresh fish, and everyday Japanese meals. A few vegetarian options are also available.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
7Io-ji Temple
This temple was founded by the famous munk "Kukai".You can enjoy a spectacular view of the calm Seto Inland Sea from a different angle.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Amida Temple (Pass by)
The 4-meter tall Tomono Daibutsu (Great Buddha). It watches over us, wishing for people's happiness.
Admission ticket free -
8Fukuzen-ji Temple
Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from Taichoro, a historic guest hall overlooking the harbor. Once praised as the most beautiful sight in all of the East.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
9Fukuyama Station
旅の余韻に浸りながら福山駅へと戻ります
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- ⚠️ Late policy: More than 20 minutes late without notice = No-Show (no refund). If you inform us but are over 1 hour late, the tour may be shortened or extra fees may apply.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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