Shionone Tomonoura Daifuku

Shionone Tomonoura Daifuku is a traditional confectionery shop located in the historic port town of Tomonoura, Hiroshima Prefecture. This establishment specializes in daifuku, the beloved Japanese sweet consisting of soft mochi rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, representing the authentic culinary traditions that have flourished in this coastal community for generations.

Tomonoura itself holds significant cultural importance as a former merchant port that served as a crucial waystation for sailors and traders navigating the Seto Inland Sea. The town gained international recognition as the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's animated film Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The picturesque harbor, with its Joyato Lighthouse built in 1859, creates the same enchanting atmosphere captured in the beloved animation.

Visitors to Shionone Tomonoura Daifuku can experience traditional Japanese sweet-making craftsmanship while exploring one of Japan's most well-preserved Edo-period port towns. The shop offers freshly made daifuku alongside views of the scenic harbor that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The establishment provides an authentic taste of local confectionery culture, often featuring seasonal variations that reflect the maritime heritage of the region.

The experience combines culinary tradition with cultural immersion, as guests can sample handcrafted sweets while surrounded by historic architecture including traditional machiya merchant houses and temples that date back to the 18th century. The shop's location allows visitors to easily explore other significant sites such as the Ota Residence, one of the town's oldest surviving buildings, and enjoy panoramic views from the historic lighthouse.

Access Tomonoura via bus from Fukuyama Station on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen line, with regular services connecting to Hiroshima City approximately 30 kilometers away. Local buses operate frequently from Fukuyama Station to the port area where the shop is located. Admission: Entry to the shop and town is free, with individual daifuku purchases typically ranging from 200-400 yen per piece. The establishment operates as both a traditional confectionery shop and cultural experience, making it accessible to visitors year-round without advance reservations required.