Gobō, Wakayama

Gobō
御坊市
City

Flag

Location of Gobō in Wakayama Prefecture
Gobō

Location in Japan

Coordinates: 33°53′N 135°9′E / 33.883°N 135.150°ECoordinates: 33°53′N 135°9′E / 33.883°N 135.150°E
Country Japan
Region Kansai
Prefecture Wakayama Prefecture
Area
  Total 43.78 km2 (16.90 sq mi)
Population (2003)
  Total 27,483
  Density 630/km2 (1,600/sq mi)
Time zone Japan Standard Time (UTC+9)
Website City of Gobō

Gobō (御坊市 Gobō-shi) is a city located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The city was founded on April 1, 1954.

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

Gobō has Kishu railway, a very short railroad, only 2.7 km (1.7 mi). It runs between JR Gobō Station and Nishi Gobō Station at a speed of 20 km/h (12 mph) taking eight minutes. This railroad is called "rinkō" by local people.

Gobō's plant is Hibiscus hamabo. They are a kind of hollyhock, growing 3 to 5 metres (9.8 to 16.4 ft) 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 its horticulture. 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 leads Japan in the production of mahjong tile and dice.

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.

External links

Media related to Gobō, Wakayama at Wikimedia Commons