Once a mining town home to over 4,000 residents, the Akenobe district now has a population of just over 40. Despite this, it has gained attention as one of the most vibrant “marginal villages” in Japan. In Akenobe, an old vacant tobacco shop was renovated through crowdfunding to become the Kobayashi Tobacco Community Hall. A highlight of the hall is its three-dimensional dragon signboard, created using a plastering technique known as “kote-e.” This space serves as an experimental hub where people from both inside and outside the community gather to connect memories of the past with hopes for the future.

1165 Akenobe, Ooya, Yabu City

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Opened in September 2021, this complex facility is designed as a hub for learning and exchange that connects people, culture, and the local community while shaping the future. It features a 651-seat hall, a library, a community center, and a park. There is also a free space utilizing the former Gunze Yoka Factory.

538-1 Yoka, Yoka-cho, Yabu City

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Opened in 2003 to honor Futaro Yamada, renowned author of the original works behind Makai Tensho and the Ninpouchou series, this museum offers a deep dive into his life and creations. On display are around 1,500 items donated by Yamada himself during his lifetime, including first editions, handwritten manuscripts, creative notes, letters, scrapbooks, photographs, clothing, and personal belongings—an intimate glimpse into the world of this legendary writer.

605-1 Sekinomiya, Yabu City (Akenobe Nature School)

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Part of the Japan Heritage site “The Silver Carriage Road and the Ore Trail Crossing Bantan,” Akenobe Mine offers visitors a unique chance to explore the historic mine tunnels. In addition, you can ride the famous “One-Yen Train,” a mining railway that once ran from Akenobe to Mikobata. For more details, please contact the Yabu City Akenobe Nature School.

1184 Akenobe, Ooya-cho, Yabu City

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Opened in 2012 using a former school building, this art facility embodies Yabu City’s vision known as the “Ooya Art Village Concept.” It features creative spaces including a handcrafted experience studio housed in a wooden school building, an exhibition hall in the gymnasium, and artist ateliers—offering visitors a chance to dive into hands-on artistic activities.

7 Kaho, Ooya-cho, Yabu City

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Opened in March 1979, this shopping center was born from the vision of the local shopping district. It made headlines as Tajima’s first place to unveil an escalator, anchored by supermarkets and a cooperative of stores. Alongside longtime tenants, the mall now welcomes new-generation shops, including an NPO supporting art by people with disabilities and a specialty juice bar. Inside, the mall’s modern color scheme and stylish architecture create a bright, contemporary atmosphere.

1219 Yoka, Yoka cho, Yabu City

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The popular direct sales shop “Yasaigura” offers fresh vegetables and unique processed products grown right here in Yabu City. About 180 local producers are registered members who regularly supply new harvests based on sales demand, ensuring the shelves are always stocked with the freshest, just-picked produce.

241-1 Takayanagi, Yoka-cho, Yabu City

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