"Tourist Sea Bream Netting" Passed Down for 400 Years | Discover Authentic Traditional Fishing in Springtime Tomonoura

Tomonoura Almanac Vol. 1 by Ofutei Staff

Hello from the staff at Hotel Ofutei.
As warm, gentle weather settles in, the sea of Tomonoura shows one of its calmest and most tranquil expressions of the year.
Around this time, conversations with our guests at the front desk naturally increase, with remarks like, "It's sea bream netting season again," or "We're going to see the tourist sea bream netting tomorrow!"
While some return every year looking forward to this event, others visit Tomonoura for the first time, filled with excitement after hearing they can witness authentic traditional fishing in action.

Passed down for roughly 400 years, the "Tourist Sea Bream Netting" (Kanko Taiami) is an iconic springtime tradition of Tomonoura.
It is far more than just a spectator event for watching fish being caught.
Reading the tides and winds, local fishermen actively pursue red sea bream and maneuver their nets right before your eyes.
It offers a rare, seasonal, and immersive experience--available in very few places across Japan--where you can witness authentic traditional fishing techniques up close from the water, conveying the rich history, culture, and coastal life of Tomonoura.
In this issue, we would like to share the unique charm of this tradition preserved through generations in our town.

A Tradition Preserved in Tomonoura, the Historic "Port for Waiting Out Tides"

Tomonoura has long flourished as a port town known for "waiting out the tides" (Shiomachi no Minato).
In the era of sailing ships, vessels navigating the Seto Inland Sea would stop at this port to wait for favorable tidal currents.
Blessed with fertile waters, sea bream fishing thrived in Tomonoura, giving rise to the tradition of "Taiami" (sea bream netting).

Preserved for around four centuries, this traditional fishing technique is open to the public today as "Tourist Sea Bream Netting" and is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Fukuyama City.
Protected by local fishermen and community members, Taiami is not merely a method for catching fish.
It is a cherished cultural asset that carries forward the history, heritage, and daily life of Tomonoura's coastal community.

The True Stars: Fishermen Who Know the Sea Inside Out

The most captivating highlight of the sea bream netting experience is the presence of the local fishermen.
Even on the seemingly peaceful Seto Inland Sea, fish movements shift dramatically based on changing currents and wind directions.
Fishermen and local volunteers carefully evaluate the conditions as they steer their boats, working in seamless harmony to cast their large nets.

Because sea bream netting cannot be accomplished by a single vessel, years of experience and tight teamwork are essential.
Even as hotel staff who witness this tradition every year, watching them navigate the waters decisively against nature never fails to mesmerize us.
This event is not a staged performance; it is a precious live encounter with the authentic livelihood of people who have lived alongside the sea for centuries.

An Unrivaled, Powerful Experience Only Felt on the Water

When the boat horn echoes across the quiet sea, the calm atmosphere gradually sharpens with anticipation.
As several fishing vessels move in unison to form a large circle, a subtle tension fills the air aboard the spectator boat.
Following the rhythmic chants of the fishermen, the net slowly spreads across the water before being drawn tight all at once--

In the next moment, vibrant red sea breams leap above the surface with a splash of sea spray, drawing cheers from everyone on board.
The silver shimmer of the fish under the spring sunlight, the ripples across the water, the gentle sea breeze, and the sway of the boat.
Experiencing all of this up close is a privilege exclusive to being on the water during the event.

Around 7:30 AM | Breakfast with a View of the Seto Inland Sea

Even on the day of the sea bream netting, there is no need to rush.
From our dining area, you can enjoy a peaceful view of the harbor and savor a relaxed, Seto-style breakfast while watching boats come and go.

Before heading out, many guests warmly share, "We're off to see the sea bream netting today!" and our staff proudly see them off with a cheerful, "Have a wonderful time!"

The ferry landing is just a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Strolling through the serene sights of Tomonoura for those 10 minutes is another enjoyable part of the journey.
It is a delightful time to feel the excitement build as you make your way toward the port.

Being able to forget the morning rush, relax, and stroll to the harbor at your own pace is one of the distinct privileges of staying at Hotel Ofutei.

For Guests Traveling from Afar

Tourist Sea Bream Netting is held during a limited season, typically from late April to early May.
Registration begins around 9:20 AM, and spectator boats depart at approximately 11:00 AM.
As this is a popular event, advance reservations are highly recommended.
Hotel Ofutei is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the ferry dock, allowing you plenty of time after breakfast.

Please note that events may be modified or canceled depending on weather and sea conditions, so we advise checking the latest schedule before setting out.
After the event, a complimentary "Tomonoura Historic Site Tour" is available for interested guests.
Guided by local volunteers, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Joyato (lantern tower) and Gangi (stone steps), gaining a deeper appreciation for Tomonoura's history as a thriving port town.

Scenery Unique to Springtime in Tomonoura

Tomonoura has shared a bond with the sea for nearly 400 years.
Carrying this legacy forward, the sight of fishermen confronting nature to harvest red sea bream is a treasured landscape unique to this town.
The energetic calls echoing over the waves.
The fishing vessels swaying in the sea breeze.
The red sea bream splashing in the spring sunlight.
Each element forms a rare and magical moment found only during this season and in this place.

Through the "Tomonoura Almanac by Ofutei Staff," we look forward to continuing to share the rich culture, history, and seasonal beauty of this town.
When you visit Tomonoura, we hope you experience its living maritime heritage and vibrant community spirit through the spectacle of Tourist Sea Bream Netting.

Handed down for 400 years, Tourist Sea Bream Netting is a precious traditional legacy that connects past and present.
The shouts of the fishermen, the shimmering Seto Inland Sea in spring light, and the dynamic leap of the fish--all combine into an unforgettable scene distinct to Tomonoura.

After experiencing the excitement, taking time to soak in our hot springs while gazing at the Seto Inland Sea and reflecting on your day is an essential Ofutei experience.
If you plan a visit to Tomonoura this spring, we invite you to immerse yourself in the sea culture preserved here.
All of us at Hotel Ofutei look forward to welcoming you warmly.

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