Tomogaura

Overview

Tomogaura is one of the component assets of the Shimane Silver Mine World Heritage site, located about 6 kilometers from the silver mine. Silver produced at the mine was transported overland via the Silver Mine Road, then loaded onto ships at Tomogaura before being exported to the world via Hakata. Tomogaura's selection as a silver export port was due to its location as the shortest straight-line distance from the Shimane Silver Mine. Surrounded by mountains, the valley-shaped terrain stretches approximately 280 meters east-west, with an average width of 30 meters. The bay is approximately 100 meters deep, with a bay mouth width of about 60 meters (average width 30 meters) excluding the breakwater, and a water depth of 3 to 4 meters. Ujima Island and Okino-ujima Island at the bay mouth served as breakwaters, contributing to its development as a good port. As silver production increased during the Edo period, the limited space became inconvenient as a collection point. The development of roads leading to the Seto Inland Sea also led to a decrease in exports, and residents shifted to fishing, farming, and salt production. Place names like 'Banshyaku' (guardhouse) at the entrance of the settlement and 'Maboro' (where horses unloaded silver) evoke the memories of bygone days. Tomogaura played a vital role connecting the Shimane Silver Mine and the sea, and is a captivating place where you can experience both history and nature.