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A charming fishing village nestling in the east of Osaki Shimojima Island, on the edge of the Seto Inland Sea, Mitarai is appreciated for its traditional charm and authentic character. A trip back in time to the Edo Period, where the hustle and bustle of modern cities is replaced by the gentle sound of fishing boats. Thanks to its 19th century wooden dwellings lining the small, narrow streets, its great causeway, its centuries-old sanctuaries and its gangi stairs, a stone structure giving on to the sea, the old town was classed as a Preservation District by the Japanese state in 1994.

Tucked away along the serene coastline of the Seto Inland Sea in Hiroshima Prefecture, Mitarai is a picturesque port town where history whispers through every alley and the spirit of old Japan continues to live on. Once a bustling harbor for wind-bound ships during the Edo period, Mitarai has gracefully retained its historical character, offering a rare glimpse into the past.

Designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, the townscape is adorned with white-walled storehouses, traditional merchant residences, and timeworn townhouses. As you stroll through the narrow lanes, the harmonious blend of historic architecture and the scenic beauty of the island-dotted sea evokes a quiet sense of time travel. Every structure tells a story—of trade, community, and daily life—leaving an indelible impression on all who visit.

But Mitarai’s true charm lies not only in its landscape. It resides also in the warmth of its people, who have nurtured this town with quiet dedication over the years. One such example is the local group known as the Sakura Club, whose efforts reflect the town’s deep-rooted spirit of hospitality. During the port call of Le Jacques-Cartier, a luxury cruise ship, visitors are invited to take part in a flower arrangement experience using carefully prepared seasonal blooms. This heartfelt gesture fosters a moment of genuine connection between locals and guests—an intimate expression of Mitarai’s welcoming nature.

Mitarai is also a place where traditional arts are not merely preserved but lived. Since the Edo period, the ancient court music of Gagaku has been lovingly passed down through generations by the Mitarai Gagaku Preservation Society. Even today, performances continue to grace local festivals and special occasions. Visitors may also have the opportunity to enjoy refined presentations of Japanese dance—another thread in the rich cultural tapestry that defines this community.

What sets Mitarai apart is its authenticity. Unlike many places that have been transformed by modernization, this town remains remarkably untouched, preserving not just its buildings, but its way of life. The unchanging beauty of the Seto Inland Sea alongside the stillness of the old townscape offers a deeply resonant experience—a journey not just through space, but through time.

There is no flashy entertainment here. Instead, Mitarai offers something far more rare : a quiet, unpretentious charm steeped in tradition and care. Culture is not staged for display, but flows naturally from daily life. Visiting Mitarai is not simply sightseeing—it is an experience that gently lingers in the heart. It is a place where one can connect with Japan’s cultural soul in its most genuine and thoughtful form. That is the enduring allure of Mitarai.