Obi Castle Town Guide
Obi Castle Town: Step Back in Time in a Samurai Stronghold Guide
Welcome to Obi Castle Town, a beautifully preserved slice of feudal Japan nestled in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture. Imagine strolling through streets lined with samurai residences, merchant houses, and the imposing ruins of a once-mighty castle. Obi offers a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a bygone era, far removed from the bustling modern cities of Japan. It's a place where history comes alive, and you can almost hear the echoes of samurai warriors and the clatter of geta sandals on the cobblestone streets. Obi Castle's history stretches back to the Muromachi period (1336-1573), but it was during the Edo period (1603-1868) that the Itō clan solidified their control and shaped the town into what we see today. The castle served as the clan's administrative center, and the surrounding town flourished as a center of commerce and culture. While the main castle structures were lost to fire in the Meiji era, significant portions of the stone walls, gates, and samurai residences remain, offering a tangible connection to the past. The town was carefully planned to defend the castle, with winding streets and strategic placement of buildings. Today, Obi Castle Town is a living museum. Explore the reconstructed Obi Castle History Museum to delve deeper into the castle's past. Wander through the Yosho-kan, a beautifully preserved samurai residence, and imagine life as a member of the warrior class. Don't miss the Obi Castle Ruins, where you can climb the stone walls and enjoy panoramic views of the town. For a taste of local culture, try Obi-ten, a type of fried fish cake unique to the region, or sample the local shochu. You can also rent a kimono and stroll through the town for an even more immersive experience.
Transportation
From Miyazaki Station, take the JR Nichinan Line to Obi Station (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes). From Obi Station, it's about a 15-minute walk to Obi Castle Town. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Obi Station to the Obi Honmachi bus stop, which is closer to the main attractions.