Niihama, Administrative division in Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
This city stretches along the Seto Inland Sea coast between forested mountains to the south and a flat coastal strip with port facilities to the north. The urban layout mixes industrial sites with residential neighborhoods, while rivers flow through the terrain toward the sea.
The opening of the Besshi copper mine in 1691 transformed a small fishing settlement into a center for metal processing and shipping. The mine drew workers and merchants, while the harbor became a departure point for copper shipments to other parts of Japan.
The Taiko Festival brings neighborhood teams together each autumn, carrying massive drums through the streets in rhythmic competition. The carriers work in synchronized groups, lifting the heavy instruments with coordinated shouts and movements while onlookers cheer for their local team.
The train station sits in the central area, connecting the city with other locations along the coast. Roads lead both to the port districts and to the residential neighborhoods further inland.
Zuiō-ji Temple in the southern hills offers meditation sessions for visitors who want to take part in Zen practices. The quiet temple grounds draw people seeking distance from the busy harbor districts.
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