city, Okayama ken (prefecture), Honshu, Japan, on a channel of the Inland Sea, opposite Takamatsu, on Shikoku. The city is composed of the former towns of Tama, Hibi, and the port of Uno. Tamano was a small fishing village during the Tokugawa period (1603–1867). The opening of Uno port and a major railway in the early 20th century, however, made it an important transport centre. Industry is based on shipbuilding and related activities; copper smelting is also important. The Kibitsu Temple, founded in the 4th century, is an architectural highlight of the city. Pop. (2005) 67,047.