The fallen star legend[5] associated with the arrival of Prince Imseong from Baekje, the reputed ancestor of the Ōuchi clan, is central to the history of Kudamatsu (下松).

[6] The legend of Prince Imseong's arrival is retold during local festivals and events, reinforcing the city's heritage.

Myōkengu Juto-ji Temple (妙見宮鷲頭寺),[7] located in Kudamatsu, is said to have been established by Prince Imseong in the 7th century after his arrival and became the birthplace of the worship of the deity Myōken Daibosatsu (妙見大菩薩).

Following the Meiji restoration, the village of Toyoi (豊井村) within Tsuno District, Yamaguchi was established with the creation of the modern municipalities system on April 1, 1889.

Kudamatsu has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral city council of 20 members.

In terms of national politics, the city is part of the Yamaguchi 2nd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.