Obama — Ancient Food Capital
Obama City (no relation to the US president) was the primary supplier of fresh seafood to the ancient capital Nara — the "Obama Road" carried saltwater fish inland 75km to the imperial court. Today the city has 120 varieties of fresh Wakasa Bay fish served at harbour restaurants, and the Mackerel Street (Saba Kaido) cultural route traces the original delivery route.
Half day
Free
City always accessible; Wakasa Fureai Market: 9:00–18:00 (17:00 in winter); Ukanoya: check locally (typically Tue–Sun).
Year-round
Obama Station on JR Obama Line (from Tsuruga, 60 min)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The "Saba Kaido" (Mackerel Road) carried fresh fish to the Nara Imperial Court 1,300 years ago
- 2
120 varieties of fresh seafood from Wakasa Bay — fewer tourists than Kanazawa, equally good fish
- 3
The city became famous internationally when Barack Obama was elected — it raises statues and signs for the connection
Local Tips
Obama supplied fresh fish to the Kyoto imperial court for over 1,000 years via the 'Saba Kaido' (mackerel road). The Obama Onsen foot bath near the port runs continuously — the water emerges at 80°C. Obama lacquerware (Obama nuri) is a refined local craft. The Obama Grill, serving traditional local food at the port, is excellent for lunch.
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