For over 1,000 years Tomo, in the city of Fukuyama, has existed as a fishing village and an active port along the Seto Nakai, or Inland Sea. (...)
For over 1,000 years Tomo, in the city of Fukuyama, has existed as a fishing village and an active port along the Seto Nakai, or Inland Sea. The village profited from its access to the ancient maritime routes that enabled local and international coastal trade, and grew significantly during the Edo Period (1603-1868); harbor facilities, including moorings, breakwaters, and a lighthouse, built through the 19th century, catalyzed the settlement’s expansion. Long celebrated in literature, music, and painting as a place of unique natural beauty, Tomo is also home to a number of historic Buddhist temples and shrines, some of which date to the 8th century A.D. Moreover, Tomo is the only Japanese port town to retain its authentic historical character, its narrow winding streets and wooden architecture untouched by modern economic and demographic pressures.
