Tomonoura has been a prosperous port since ancient times. Its unique circular harbour was preserved even after modern port facilities were introduced. Tomonoura lies within Tomokoen, which forms part of the Setonaikai National Park. The area is known for red sea bream fishing, and the port is full of working fishing boats.

There are many historical temples and shrines around Tomonoura. Fukuzen-ji Temple offers one of the most memorable views in Tomonoura of nearby Benten Island and Sensui Island framed by the veranda of the temple. This temple also has a statue of the Virgin Mary disguised as the Buddhist Bodhisattva Kannon, used for worship by the hidden Christians of the Edo Period.

Tomonoura was one of the stops on the route taken by wooden merchant ships from Osaka to Hokkaido via the Inland Sea. It became a centre for the production of homeishu, a medicinal liqueur made with many types of herbs.

The old town centre features alleys lined with old wooden houses and shops selling homeishu. The 11 m high Joyato Lighthouse built during the Edo Period dominates the port. The Ota Residence belonged to a family who enjoyed a monopoly on brewing homeishu, and today it houses artefacts related to their business. The Irohamaru Museum has exhibits relating to a merchant ship related to Sakamoto Ryoma that sank in 1867. The Tomonoura Museum of History and Folklore is also worth a visit.