Fukui Travel Recommendations

Fukui Prefecture is located on the west coast of Japan’s Honshu island, facing the Sea of Japan. It is known for its history, culture, nature, and delicious food. In this article, we will provide an overview of Fukui Prefecture and include information on how to get there from Tokyo, the best season to visit, and 10 must-see places.

Getting to Fukui from Tokyo

Fukui Prefecture is located approximately 260 km northwest of Tokyo. One of the most popular ways to get to Fukui from Tokyo is by taking the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa, which takes about 2.5 hours. From there, you can take a limited express train to Fukui, which takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Tokyo to Fukui, which takes approximately 6 hours.

Best Season to Visit Fukui

The best season to visit Fukui Prefecture is from spring to autumn. The cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, and many parks and temples hold cherry blossom viewing events during this time. In the summer, you can enjoy the beaches and water activities along the Sea of Japan, as well as the summer festivals in various cities. In the fall, the autumn foliage is stunning, and many temples and shrines have special evening illumination events.

Must-See Places in Fukui

Eiheiji Temple

Eiheiji Temple is a historic Zen temple located in the mountains of Fukui. It was founded in 1244 by Dogen Zenji, the founder of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism. Visitors can participate in meditation and other activities at the temple.

Tojinbo Cliffs

The Tojinbo Cliffs are a series of jagged cliffs and rock formations on the coast of Fukui. They are a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

Fukui Dinosaur Museum

The Fukui Dinosaur Museum is one of the largest dinosaur museums in the world. It features a collection of dinosaur fossils, including a complete skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex.

Maruoka Castle

Maruoka Castle is a 16th-century castle located in Sakai City. It is one of the oldest surviving castle structures in Japan and is known for its unique corkscrew-shaped stone walls.

Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins

The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins are the remains of a castle town that existed during the 16th century. It is a designated national historic site and a popular spot for history buffs.

Mikata Five Lakes

The Mikata Five Lakes are a group of five crater lakes located in the Mikata region. They are known for their clear blue water and scenic views.　

Awara Hot Springs

Awara Hot Springs is a popular hot spring resort in Fukui. The hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties and are a great place to relax and unwind.

Obama City

Obama City is a coastal city known for its scenic views and historic sites. It is home to the Obama Castle ruins, the Wakasa-Mikata Jomon Museum, and a variety of seafood dishes.

Tsuruga City

Tsuruga City is a port city located on the eastern coast of Fukui. It is known for its seafood, hot springs, and historic sites, including the Kehi Shrine and the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Fukui

Echizen Gani (Echizen Crab)

The coast of Fukui Prefecture is famous for its sweet and succulent Echizen crabs. These red king crabs are caught in the Sea of Japan and are considered a delicacy in the region. The crabs are boiled or steamed and served with soy sauce or butter.

Jibu-ni

Jibu-ni is a traditional dish from Fukui made with duck meat, wheat gluten, and vegetables cooked in a rich broth made with soy sauce and sugar. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is usually served during special occasions.

Heshiko

Heshiko is a preserved fish dish that is made by salting and fermenting mackerel or sardines for several days. The fish is then grilled or simmered in a sauce made with soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), and sugar. Heshiko is a traditional winter delicacy in Fukui that is usually paired with sake.

Wakasa Gyuu

Wakasa Gyuu is a type of beef that is raised in the coastal region of Fukui, and it is known for its high-quality marbling and tender texture. The cows are raised on local grains and vegetables and are fed beer and sake to enhance their flavor. Wakasa Gyuu is best enjoyed as a steak or in a hot pot.

Kaga Yasai

Kaga Yasai is a type of vegetable that is grown in the neighboring Ishikawa Prefecture but is widely available in Fukui as well. The vegetables are grown using traditional farming methods and are known for their sweet and delicate flavor. Kaga Yasai is used in a variety of dishes, including salads, stews, and grilled dishes.

Hoppou Ryouri

Hoppou Ryouri is a traditional cuisine that is unique to the Hokuriku region, which includes Fukui Prefecture. The cuisine is characterized by its use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Some of the signature dishes include Nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) and Ishiri (salted squid stomach).

Recommended Accommodations in Fukui

Awara Onsen Kofuyuden Beniya

Awara Onsen Kofuyuden Beniya is a hot spring inn located in Awara City, Fukui Prefecture. There are 17 rooms, all with a semi-open-air bath with natural hot spring water. Dinner and breakfast are served in your room. It is an inn where you can enjoy the light, wind, hot spring, and the nature of Awara.

Kappo Ryokan Echizen Mangetsu

Kappo Ryokan Echizen Mangetsu is an inn located in Takasu Onsen, Fukui Prefecture. You can enjoy the Echizen crab and other delicacies from the mountains and the sea while overlooking the Echizen coast. There are Japanese-style and Western-style rooms, all with a refrigerator and a TV. There are also large public baths and open-air baths.

Eiheiji Shinzen no Yado Hakujukan

Eiheiji Shinzen no Yado Hakujukan is a shukubo inn located in Eiheiji Town, Fukui Prefecture. It is located in front of the gate of Eiheiji Temple, and a Zen concierge will guide you through experiences such as zazen meditation and shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine). The rooms are designed in a modern Japanese style, with Wi-Fi and air conditioning. There are also shared spaces such as a lobby and a library.

Conclusion

Fukui Prefecture is a fascinating destination with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With its hot springs, museums, castles, temples, and scenic spots, Fukui has something to offer for everyone. Make sure to include these 10 must-see places in your itinerary when you visit Fukui.