If you're like me and enjoy discovering less crowded small towns, Obi is definitely not to be missed. It's a hidden gem away from the hustle and bustle, filled with historic charm. I highly recommend taking the distinctive Umisachi Yamasachi sightseeing train, which is made with Obi cedar. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the tropical scenery along the Nichinan Coast.
Strolling through the castle town, you'll see low stone walls from the Edo period and clear waterways, with carp swimming freely in the water. As you walk, towering century-old Obi cedar trees rise all around, creating a tranquil, elegant atmosphere that makes you want to breathe in all the fresh forest air.
When you get tired from walking, don't miss Nedoko Coffee, tucked away in an alley. Order a cup of pour-over coffee, carefully ground and brewed fresh by the owner. Its smooth, rich aroma fills the rustic, elegant wooden space. The pure flavor, the warm hospitality, and the time spent chatting with the owner have stayed with me ever since.
