Shimonoseki (Japan)

Shimonoseki is a port city in Yamaguchi Prefecture (Japan), located at Honshu Island's southwestern tip and facing Tsushima Strait. The city has population around 265,000. In February 2005, to Shimonoseki metro area were added (as city districts) 4 neighbouring towns (Hohoku, Kikugawa, Toyota, Toyoura).

Port Shimonoseki was officially established in July 1899 as seaport for trading with USA and UK. City's economy is heavily based on manufacturing and finances, featuring as largest companies Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (shipbuilding yard), Yamaguchi Financial Group, Yamaguchi Bank, Momiji Bank, YM Securities, Hayashikane Sangyo (mixed feed), Chofu Seisakusho (hot water supply-air conditioning-solar equipments), Harakosan (real estate), Minato-Yamaguchi (daily newspaper), Yamaguchi Shimbun (daily newspaper), Minato Shimbun (daily newspaper).

The city is served by 4 airports (all located outside the city) - 3 international (Kitakyushu, Kokura, Fukuoka ) and 1 for domestic flights only (Yamaguchi Ube). Among tourists, the city is popular for its many annual festivals, numerous museums, stadiums, modern and traditional architecture, regional food specialties.

Shimonoseki cruise terminal