Obama Travel Guide, Japan

Obama is a city found in the center of Wakasa Area in the Fukui Prefecture.  Fishing was great for the economy of the city.  However, due to the emergence of Barack Obama, who used to be a senator of the United States and now the American President, tourism became the principal industry of Obama.

Transportation

The city is served by JR West Obama Line. It has five stations which are Obama, Higashi, Kato, Seihama, and Shin Hirano.  If you would rather walk along the streets, you may do so as well.  As long as your travel destinations are near the area, you could exercise your feet.

Festival

The city of Obama celebrates the Omizu-okuri Festival annually.  The English translation of this is “Water Carrying.”  This traditional religious event has been observed for over 1,200 years already.  It is one of the most sought-after festivities in the city.

Attractions

Obama city has several landmarks that are very inviting to visit.  Wakasa Bay which is a view of coastlines that are steep and irregular can be found at the northern part of the city.  One of these coasts is the Sotomo which is also regarded as one of the most magnificent sights to behold in Obama.

The city is also a home to over 130 temples and a great number of Buddha statues.  One of the most visited temples is the Myotsu-ji Temple. After a tour in this temple, people can explore another landmark.  Karesansui Garden is just around the said religious spot.  To know more about the history and culture of Obama, one can drop by the Wakasa Historical and Folk Museum.

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Due to the influence coming from China, the arts and crafts created by the people of Obama are rich in traditional Chinese style.  Among the must-experience pleasures brought about by this artistic connection are:

·   Wakasa Agate.  This is one of the most famous crafts created in the City.  Agate is a red translucent stone which when heated produces a bright color and an attractive gleam.  Some of the Wakasa agate products are jewelry, cups, ornaments and incense burners.

·   Wakasa Lacquered Ware.  This set of souvenir items have been created for about 400 years already.  The items are made up of pine needle and cypress base, and eggshell and seashell ornaments.  After the lacquer color is applied on the piece, it will be polished until the design is manifested.  Only an extremely skillful craftsman can perform this grueling task.

·   Wakasa Lacquered Chopsticks.  This is the most sought after product of Obama.  The process of making this is similar to the Wakasa Lacquer Ware.  The difference is that gold or silver leaves are added to the ornament.  The outcome would be a layer of different colors in traditional or modern designs.

·   Wakasa Japanese Paper.  This is made from Japanese trees, which are meticulously chosen, along with fine waters of Obama.  This souvenir item is colorful and strong, unlike other papers.

A trip to Obama is really worth all the expenses.  You could enjoy its festivities and attractions.  What attracts tourists the most are the arts and crafts enhanced by the local artists.  These could be considered good souvenirs to bring home to your own place.