Understand

Welcome to the vibrant new city of Shimanto! This remarkable city is actually a fusion of six towns, with the lively downtown area being the former town of Nakamura. With a population of approximately 35,000, Shimanto is a charming rural city that offers a unique and authentic experience. Delve into the rich history of Shimanto as we transport you back to the year 1475. Court noble Ichijo Norifusa, who once served as imperial regent, sought refuge in Nakamura to escape the ravages of the Onin War. Here, he established the illustrious Tosa Ichijo clan, leaving a lasting legacy. Although the clan faced defeat against the mighty Chosogabe Motochika in the 17th century, Nakamura persevered and its inhabitants continue to embrace their customs and celebrate festivals rooted in the clan's heritage. In Shimanto, history truly comes alive. The city was severely damaged during the devastating 1946 Nankai earthquake and tsunami, resulting in the loss of numerous historic buildings. Experts predict that another Nankai earthquake may occur within the next few years to the next few decades, making it a place of both resilience and caution. Shimanto, though not directly situated on the coast, is close enough to the mighty Pacific Ocean that the possibility of tsunami damage looms ever present. Stepping into present-day Shimanto, you'll discover a charming, tranquil city that remains off the radar for many tourists. While young people often venture outside the city for work and education, they frequently return to Shimanto when starting families. Recently, a popular television drama called 'Ososaki no Himawari' has spotlighted Shimanto, increasing its prominence throughout Japan. Are you ready to uncover the secrets and allure of this hidden gem?

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing