I inadvertently left about half a day vacant during my August 2024 trip to Japan, and wanted to go somewhere I’d never been. The problem? I was in Kyoto, where I used to live—I’ve explored the entire city, multiple times, and basically everywhere around it.
If I’m honest, I don’t know why I even thought to visit Obama which, in spite of being just over an hour’s drive from Kyoto, is technically in Fukui prefecture.
However, as I think you will agree throughout my Obama Japan itinerary, this town on the Sea of Japan coast is so much more than its gimmicky name. Whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat—or even an American at all—Obama-cho is a standout destination.
How to Get to Obama
You can get to central Obama via public transport—specifically, by riding a train to Tsuruga (the Thunderbird Limited Express from Kyoto or Osaka; the Shinkansen Tsurugi from Kanazawa) and then connecting to the local JR Obama Line from there. The issue is that while several of the attractions I’m about to mention are within walking distance of JR Obama Station, the best ones—the trio of outlying temples—are not.
Now, I get it: One of Japan’s major selling points is its excellent public transportation. Why, then, would you come here and rent a car? But trust me that whether you’re in Obama or another relatively small town in Japan, having your own set of wheels just makes things so much easier. Without having to worry about infrequent departures and arrivals or obscure local lines, you can focus much more on enjoying yourself.
My Favorite Things to Do in Obama
Explore Nishigumi historical district
Have you walked down a historical Machiya street in Kyoto or Nara and wondered what it would be like without hundreds of tourists everywhere? Well, you can see if you set your GPS for Nishigumi Historical District upon arriving at Obama Station. Although there are occasionally Japanese tour groups here, it’s mostly deserted.
Eat your way through Wakasa Fish Center
Obama is famous for saba, aka mackerel. Although you’ll find many restaurants that serve this in your Obama travel guide, the best place to sample it is at the Wakasa Fish Center. Here, you not only eat saba-no-sashimi, but various teishoku sets that spotlight cooked version of the fish’s flesh.
Enjoy the view from Obama Park Summit
As is the case with many viewpoints in Japan, the overgrowth of trees blocks a certain amount of the view from Obama Park Summit. Still, seeing the town in the context of both the Sea of Japan and the lush mountains of Fukui prefecture allows you to put it literally and figuratively into perspective.
Take a boat trip to Sotomo
I should’ve put this one earlier in my Obama itinerary, given that the ticket office and departure pier is not far from the Wakasa Fish Center. Regardless, I do recommend making the boat trip out to Sotomo, which is a gorgeous natural formation, even if it’s more impressive in the context of the rest of Obama than it is on its own.
See amazing temples on your way in (or out)
If I’m honest, the most impressive places in Obama are not actually in Obama—well, not in the center. I’m talking about a trio of temples: the asymmetrical Jingu-ji and Mantoku-ji, which is home to an astonishing garden; and Myotsu-ji, particularly its koi pond and five-story pagda.
Should You Stay Overnight in Obama?
I’ll be honest in saying that I have not yet had the pleasure of staying overnight in Obama. I want to, and especially did when I passed by Obama Machiya Stay while strolling through Nishigumi. Imagine a Kyoto guest house without any tourists and barely any locals. Obama is special enough as I day trip, but I’d love to see it at sunrise or sunset, or after night falls.
Of course, if you can’t find any Obama hotels that appeal to you, you could always stay a bit closer than Kyoto, namely in Tsuruga. Then again, coming to Obama on a day trip is a perfect acceptable option, as I think this post illustrates. I mean, again, assuming you’re OK doing without the amazing light at the beginning or end of the day, which most tourists are.
Other FAQ About Visiting Obama, Japan
How do I get to Obama, Japan?
You can get to Obama, Japan either by private car or public transport—namely, a Shinkansen or Limited Express train to Tsuruga, and then a local train from there. I personally recommend renting a car, as this allows you to explore a trio of enchanting temples outside the center of Obama-cho.
Is Obama a place in Japan?
Obama is indeed a place in Japan! It’s a small town in Fukui prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast, located less than two hours from major destinations like Kyoto, Osaka and Kanazawa. It has no real connection to former US President Obama, but is nonetheless a stand-out destination.
Is Obama a Japanese name?
Obama (小浜) is a Japanese name, which means “little beach.” However, the identical nature of its English spelling with the name of former US President Barack Obama is merely coincidental, as Barack Obama himself has no Japanese heritage.
The Bottom Line
I hope my Obama Japan itinerary has inspired you. The bad news? If you’re opposed to renting a car in Japan, it will be difficult to see all these places in a day. The good news? If you don’t mind getting your own set of wheels, then this place (which is alternatively known as Wakasa, or simply “Nara by the Sea”) will amaze you. While I certainly can’t say Obama is my favorite place in Japan, it certainly punches way above its weight, and is far more than simply a gimmicky destination that shares a name with a former US president. Make your Obama trip even more special when you hire me to plan it.
