Obi Castle Town — Little Kyoto of Kyushu

**Best preserved section:** Otemon Street (大手門通り) runs 400 meters from the castle gate through the samurai district. The street retains original stone walls, wooden gates, and earthen walls. Walk slowly and explore side lanes — many residences have gardens visible through gates. The streetscape is highly photogenic (rent a kimono for ¥3,000/half-day if interested). **Obiten (specialty food):** Obi's local dish is obiten (飫肥天) — fried fish cake similar to satsuma-age but sweetened with tofu and served on a stick. Multiple shops sell fresh-fried obiten (¥100/stick) as street food. Eat while walking the historic district. **Castle view:** Obi Castle's reconstructed keep provides elevated view over the town's tiled rooftops with mountains beyond. The climb takes 10 minutes from town center; the keep interior displays armor and historical exhibits (minimal English). The view is the main draw, especially in morning light (9:00–11:00).