Obama 小浜市, Fukui Prefecture

Obama (Japanese: 小浜市) is a city on the southern part of Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It covers 233 sq km (90 sq mi) and has a population of 32,000 people (2012 estimate).

The name Obama means "little beach" in Japanese. It of course became popular as its name matches that of the US President Barack Obama. The history of Obama goes back a thousand years. It was the capital of Wakasa Province during the Ritsuryo period, around the 6th century AD. Being on the route for travelers going between Kyoto and China, Obama received an infusion of Chinese culture that has influenced its ancient architecture.

Obama was the town from which several Japanese citizens were abducted by North Korean agents on 7 July, 1978.

Building at Jingu-ji Temple in Obama, Fukui Prefecture

Planning your trip to Obama

Obama is served by the JR West Obama Line, whose trains stop at the Obama, Higashi-Obama, Kato, Seihama and Shin-Hirano stations. If going there by road, you can take Japan National Routes 27 or 162.

Mantokuji Temple in Obama, Fukui Prefecture

Places of Interest in Obama

Myotsu-ji Temple in Obama, Fukui Prefecture

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