Gobō, Wakayama

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For the root vegetable called gobō in Japanese, see burdock.

Map showing location of Gobō in Wakayama Prefecture (as of 2006).

Gobō (御坊市, Gobō-shi^?) is a city located in Wakayama, Japan.

As of 2003, the city has an estimated population of 27,483 and the density of 627.75 persons per km². The total area is 43.78 km².

The city was founded on April 1, 1954.

Gobō has Kishu railway, thet a very short railroad, only 2.7 km. It runs between JR Gobō Station and Nishi Gobō Station at a speed of 20km/h taking eight minutes. This railroad is called "rinkō" by local people.

Gobō's plant is Hibiscus hamabo. They are kind of hollyhock, growing 3 to 5 m in height. Yellow Flowers bloom in the summer. They grow at the outlet of the Hidaka River and reflect the city’s climate.

Gobō is well known for flower production. Gobō's catchphrase is "hanamaru Gobō". Many different kinds of flowers are grown in the city's greenhouses.

Gobō is also well known as a mahjong tile and dice manufacturer. Gobō's mahjong tile and dice share is number one in Japan.

Gobō has "Gobō Synthesis Sport Park". This park has a baseball ground and multipurpose ground, training place and more. It is a popular relaxation spot among the locals.