A small fisherman village, Tomonoura is beautifully situated on the Insland Sea of Japan, facing Sensuijima Island. This is one of my favourite places in Japan. It's the only complete port ensamble from  the Edo period.
It has over twenty temples and very well preserved merchant houses from Edo period as well as the ruins of local castle.
In  a clear day it is possible to see a lot of islands dotted around just off the coast, making for great view.
The most striking view is the temple on Bentenjima Island, just oposite to the harbour.
The sight has been described as equal in beauty to the floating torii of the nearby Miyajima. And i must agree with this opinion.
The town itself is quiet and serene. This is a good enviroment to wander the streets freely admiring the old style buildings and enjoy the atmosphere, which is really unique.
Tomonoura has many traditional events.
In March, traditionally decorated dolls for the girls festival (Hina matsuri) are displayed in many of houses.
In May, there is sea bream fishing festival  and in July- Otebi matsuri when burning pine bundles are carried up the steep stairs to the shrine at night.
There are ferry boats from Tomonoura to Sensuijima. The island offers lovely beach, a campsite, hiking coursesand accomodation. It is also possible to see there tanuki- japanese badgers.
To get to Tomonoura it is necessery to take a bus from Fukuyama city first.
Buses run every 15 minutes. Bus station is located in center of town so very easy to find it.
Tomonoura has special charm and is definitely worthy to see. I want to write much more about this place soon.