Obi

Known as the “Little Kyoto of Kyushu,” Obi in Nichinan City in southern Miyazaki Prefecture flourished as the Ito clan’s castle town for 280 years. While much of Obi Castle has been lost over time, the reconstructed main gate, and its surrounding samurai residences and stone walls built from local Obi stone still preserve the town’s Edo atmosphere. The town’s Edo-era streetscape has been carefully preserved, retaining its authentic character.
Strolling through town, you can step inside former samurai residences such as Yoshokan, the stately home of the clan’s head, or explore the Obi Clan Historical Museum, which displays armor, swords, and artifacts of domain life. Around the castle ruins, you’ll find a mossy cedar grove nicknamed the “Healing Forest” for its tranquil atmosphere. If you want a more hands-on cultural experience, you can rent a kimono to explore the town in, or try out shihanmato short-bow archery, a style that originates in southern Kyushu and was often practiced here at Obi Castle. You also won’t want to leave without tasting Obi tempura, a fried fishcake delicacy created here in the Edo era.