Uto City is located in the central part of Kumamoto Prefecture, overlooking the mountains of the Uto Peninsula to the south and the Ariake Sea to the west. Its mild climate makes it a city rich in nature. Uto City is also a historic city, home to numerous historical and cultural heritage sites, such as Okoshiki Beach and the remains of the Amida-yaki kilns. It once flourished as the castle town of Konishi Yukinaga and has served as a key transportation hub since the Middle Ages. It has also played an active role as a commercial and industrial hub for Kumamoto Prefecture. Its thriving industries include agriculture, including fruit cultivation, Ariake nori seaweed farming and clam farming, and manufacturing. It is famous for its traditional craft, papier-mâché, as well as the famous sweets "Uto Mochi" and "Kosode Mochi." Tourist attractions include Sumiyoshi Shrine and the ruins of Uto Castle.