Obama backs Obama

Obama, Fukui

Ideal for a weekend getaway, Obama City in Fukui prefecture has sandy beaches, ancient shrines and temples nestled in the hills, traditional crafts for sale along its streets and, possibly, the only Japanese support group for Senator Barack Obama's quest for the American presidency. Better known for its fresh seafood and proximity to natural beauty, the city has gained international attention recently with its fondness for Obama, the man. Since Senator Obama's strong showing in early primaries, residents of the city have been cheering him on from their sidelines several thousand miles away and getting the attention of CNN and other news organizations in the process.

"We love Obama!" says Seiji Fujihara, Secretary General of the I Love Obama, the Obama for Obama Support Group. Mr. Fujihara's day job is manager of the Hotel Sekumiya but his obsession with the Senator has filtered into the international press as well as the Hotel's lobby. Mr. Fujihara has been interviewed by CNN surrounded by pictures of the Senator, which adorn the walls of the lobby along- side copies of a letter from Senator Obama to the Mayor of the city thanking him for his support. Banners with Senator Obama's visage announce to passersby where Hotel Sekumiya's political views lay. Several businesses in town have followed Mr. Fujihara's lead.

Across the street from the hotel, a souvenir shop has also jumped on the political bandwagon. Selling lacquerware and chopsticks, which the City is well known for, the shop has recently added the Obama corner. T-shirts, stickers and even Obama chopsticks decorate the shelves with their declaration of love for Obama, the man and presumably the city as well. "We love Obama!" the salesladies gleefully chorus as they include Senator Obama stickers with each purchase. (I got two!)

A culinary dedication to the Senator can be found at Wakasa Fisherman's Wharf. The Obama Curry Burger has been added to the menu that also includes sushi and sashimi plates. The minced fish patties are doused in curry and served on a bed of rice. The Democratic blue plate special does appear to be outsold by the more traditional choices on the menu. The city's support appears to be based on the name it shares with Senator Barack Obama and has paid off in the form of increased tourism and press attention. Prior to the city's leap into American politics it was known for different sights and more traditional attractions.

"I understand that Obama is a city of rich culture, deep traditions, and natural beauty." Senator Barack Obama wrote in a letter thanking the Mayor for his encou- ragement. The city has taken a great step in making those qualities as accessible as possible. A bus loop line starts at JR Obama Station and visits the main attractions several times a day. A ¥500 day pass grants visitors unlimited rides. Several of the attractions are within walking distance of Mori no Mizu Visitor's Center. Light snacks and drinks are available at the visitor's center as well as a selection of local crafts and souvenirs. Some of the nearby attractions are the moss covered walls and paths of Jinguji Temple which sponsors a water purification ceremony in March.

The stone and flower gardens of Mantokuji are a popular stop in the Spring, but unfortunately construction at the site now intrudes on the attraction. Wakasahime and Wakasahiko Shrines offer visitors simple designs and wide pathways similar to the Ise Grand Shrine. Several other shrines and museums are accessible by the shuttle service.

The main attraction for shuttle users is Myotsuji temple with it's three story pagoda and 1,200 year history. Surrounded by hills, the grounds have several small carp ponds and structures which the priests often compare to the grandest temples of Nara and Kyoto. The advantage that Myotsuji has over their more famous competition is fewer crowds. Obama has a lot to offer besides a political support group for a candidate they will likely never meet.

Text & photos: Charlie Harrington