Introducing the charms of Obara, the town of four-season cherry blossoms and washi paper ①

Obara

Obara is located in the northwest of Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, and is an area rich in nature and traditional culture. It was once Obara Village, but was merged with other areas in 2005 to become part of Toyota City. Colored by Shikizakura, Obara has fostered the traditional cultures of washi paper making and kabuki, and has a unique charm not found in other areas.

The history, culture and nature of Obara are carefully preserved by the local people, and they continue to convey their charm to visitors. Not only can you learn about Obara by visiting, but you can also create unforgettable memories by experiencing it. Please come and visit Obara.

Obara and Shikizakura

Cherry blossoms are a springtime feature, but in Obara you can enjoy them in the fall as well. The special cherry blossoms that can be seen here are called "Shikizakura," a rare variety that blooms twice a year, in spring and fall. From late October to early December, the scenery of autumn leaves and Shikizakura blooming at the same time spreads out, captivating visitors. The contrast between the red and orange of the autumn leaves and the pale pink of the cherry blossoms is like something out of a painting, and Obara is the only place in Japan where you can enjoy such scenery!

There are many spots in Obara where you can enjoy the Shikizakura, but one that is particularly recommended is "Senmi Shikizakura no Sato." Approximately 1,200 Shikizakura trees are planted here, and in autumn you can see a beautiful collaboration with the autumn leaves. Also, the best time to visit is early in the morning or mid-day. The cherry blossoms and autumn leaves shrouded in morning mist create a fantastic atmosphere, allowing you to take even more beautiful photos. Be sure to bring your camera with you when you visit!

Obara and Washi

Inheriting the traditions and culture of washi paper

It is said that the making of washi paper in Obara began in the Muromachi period. The rich natural environment is suitable for making washi paper, and it has been passed down to the present day as Obara's unique culture through traditional washi paper as a practical item and the art and craft work that was born later, "Toyota Obara Washi Crafts."

When you hear the word "washi," you might think of old-fashioned shoji screens or calligraphy paper. However, Obara washi paper completely overturns that image. It is a special world where the paper itself becomes art and tradition is passed down to the present in a new form.

Experience the charm of washi paper

This time, I visited the "Obara Paper Art Museum" to experience the charm of Obara Washi firsthand, and experienced papermaking while learning about the history of washi. I will introduce the value of "Obara Washi" that is unique to it and is recommended for Gen Z and travelers from overseas!

Obara Washi is not just paper, it is also used as an art material, and one of the characteristics of Obara Washi is the technique that gives the washi paper itself beautiful expression.

If you visit the Washi Artwork Gallery on the premises, you will see a display of washi artworks that look like paintings, and realize that washi is not just paper. It is a space filled with the unique charm of Obara washi, a fusion of traditional Japanese crafts and art.

If you want to get a deeper understanding of the charms of Obara washi paper, we recommend trying out papermaking yourself. At the Art and Craft Center, anyone can casually try their hand at papermaking. It's not just an experience, it's like making a work of art. You can take home the washi paper you make, making it the perfect memento of your trip!

The museum is surrounded by paper mulberry and mitsumata, the raw materials for washi paper, and one of its attractions is being able to learn the background of washi paper, "So this is what washi paper is made from!" It's a valuable experience that allows you to experience traditional Japanese culture both visually and tactilely.

Also, don't miss the appeal of this spot as a great place to take photos on social media. We recommend holding the washi paper with its beautiful openwork pattern up to the light to take a fantastic photo!

Please come and visit Obara, the "Obara Paper Art Museum" and enjoy a journey where you will encounter washi paper as an art form!

Obara and Kabuki

Kabuki began in Obara during the Edo period as a local play dedicated to a shrine. Even today, a preservation society has been established by local residents, and Kabuki is passed down as a tradition.

In Toyota City, there are other groups active besides Obara Kabuki, and the charm of Kabuki that is passed down in the city is introduced at the Toyota City Traditional Kabuki Museum in the Obara district. Here, materials such as costumes and props that were actually used in Kabuki, as well as materials that convey Kabuki culture such as clay dolls, are exhibited. In addition, local materials related to the history of the Obara district can also be seen.

Anyone can perform at Obara Kabuki, regardless of gender or age. When we visited, we were able to observe a rehearsal up close, and the warm Kabuki performed by local people, which was different from a professional performance, was a rare opportunity to feel the inheritance of the culture.

I hope that reading this article will inspire you to visit Obara to see a Kabuki performance. Obara is a precious place where you can experience traditional culture. Don't just visit as a tourist, but also enjoy interacting with the local people!

Obara, gourmet food, and access

■ Gourmet food unique to Obara

One of the joys of traveling is tasting the local food culture!

You can also enjoy sweets inspired by Shikizakura and dishes made with local ingredients. Enjoying a meal in an open environment surrounded by nature is sure to create a special moment.

https://www.kankou-obara.toyota.aichi.jp/gift/ (in Japanese)

■Access

Access to Obara is surprisingly convenient, about an hour by car from Nagoya and about 40 minutes from the center of Toyota City. If you use public transportation, you can also access it by bus from Toyotashi Station.  

Toyota City Obara Tourism Association:

https://www.kankou-obara.toyota.aichi.jp/english/

Toyota City Obara Paper Art Museum: 

https://www.tourismtoyota.jp/en/foods/detail/62/

Toyota City Traditional Kabuki Museum:

http://toyota-kabuki.jp/en/