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Dinosaur museum
- Perhaps most famous for its dinosaur museum, one of the best in the world, Fukui is also the birthplace of Echizen pottery and home to Eiheiji Temple, a headquarters of Zen Buddhism; Maruoka Castle, one of twelve remaining original castles in the country; and spectacular cliffs and coastline at Tojinbo.
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Discover the top things to do in Fukui, north of Kyoto along with coast with the Sea of Japan, known for Echizen city (famous for washi), the stunning Tojinbo cliffs, the Fukui Dinosaur Museum, the Sabae Glasses Museum and local city of Obama.
Fukui Prefecture (福井県, Fukui-ken) is located along the Sea of Japan coast in the Chubu Region. Among its most famous attractions are Eiheiji Temple, a leading Zen temple, and the Fukui Dinosaur Museum, Japan's best museum of its kind. The prefectural capital is Fukui City.
- Things to Do in Fukui Prefecture
- Historic Sites and Landmarks
- Natural Wonders
- Enjoyable Cultural Experiences
- Food and Nightlife
- Transportation and Travel Tips
- Accommodations and Onsen
- Frequently Asked Questions
Fukui is one of the lesser visited prefecturesin Japan. It’s part of the Chubu region (central Japan) together with eight other prefectures including Gifu, Mie and Aichi. But if you are the adventurous type. Or someone who wants to visit the real Japan other than the usual Tokyoand Kyoto, then there will be something for you.
Eihei-Ji Temple
Eihei-Ji Temple is a must-visit site in Fukui Prefecture and is steeped in history. Founded by Zen Master Dogenin 1244, this temple offers you a fascinating glimpse into the ascetic practices and stoic lifestyle followed for centuries. It’s the birthplace of soto zen buddhism. As you walk through the temple hall, take a moment to appreciate the majestic ceiling paintings that depict the temple’s history. This place is the headquarters of Zen Buddhism too.
Tsuruga Castle
When exploring historical walking areas in Fukui, be sure to visit Tsuruga Castle. Wander through the remnants of the once-mighty fortress and imagine what life was like during Japan’s feudal period. You can also observe the moat that once protected the castle, and the stairs that lead to the peak will give you a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
Maruoka Castle
Head to Maruoka to see one of Japan’s oldest castles; Maruoka Castle. Although it was damaged during an earthquake in 1948, it has since been brilliantly reconstructed. This landmark is a significant piece of Japan’s history, offering you the opportunity to explore and learn more about its rich past. 1. Castle Keep:The oldest existing castle keep in Japan. 2. Reconstructed:Beautifully restored after the 1948 earthquake. 3. History:A chance to step back in time and learn about its fascinating...
Tojinbo Cliffs
When visiting Fukui Prefecture, you’ll definitely want to check out the Tojinbo Cliffs. These majestic cliffs stretch for about 1km along the Sea of Japan, showcasing a powerful display of nature at work. As you walk along the cliffs, take in the stunning scenery and, on clear days, you might even spot the opposite coast in the distance. There are several viewing points dotted along the cliffs which provide unobstructed views of this natural wonder. Keep an eye out for marine life, as it’s no...
Asuwayama Park
Another must-visit destination in Fukui Prefecture is Asuwayama Park. This beautiful park is nestled on a hill, offering spectacular views of the surrounding city and thoroughly immersing you in nature. As you explore the park, you’ll discover various garden areas, each with its own unique character and charm. The park is great for all ages, providing ample opportunities for leisurely strolls, picnics, or even some vigorous exercise as you ascend the hill. The diverse scenery, including cherr...
Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
If you’re fascinated by dinosaur history, a trip to the Fukui Dinosaur Museumis a must! Located in Katsuyama City, this museum boasts world-class exhibits on dinosaurs, paleontology, and geology. You’ll love exploring the life-sized dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays. Don’t miss the opportunity to join workshops and guided tours to enhance your understanding of these prehistoric creatures. You can even go hunting for actual dinosaur fossils in the area. And do not forget to grab a so...
Fukui Museum of Natural History
To dive deeper into the history and ecosystem of Fukui Prefecture, a visit to the Fukui Museum of Natural Historyshould be on your list. This museumfeatures exquisite collections of minerals, fossils, plants, and animals unique to the region. Wander through the exhibits and learn about Japanese history and how Fukui’s distinctive landscape has shaped its biodiversity.
Mikuni Fireworks
Your cultural experience in Fukui Prefecture wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the spectacular Mikuni Fireworksdisplay. Every year on the last Saturday of July, the night sky in Mikuni town is set alight with colorful explosions and wonderful displays. It’s an unforgettable event that showcases a beloved Japanese tradition, and you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking pyrotechnics that burst high above the Mikuni coastline. We have been there 3 times now. Each time we stay in a local ry...
Fukui Prefecture offers a delightful variety of local specialties and nightlife activities for you to enjoy. When it comes to local cuisine, be sure to try some of the regional specialties and fresh seafood. First and foremost is the Echizen crab, which is highly prized for its delicious, tender meat. In fact, these are the crabs the Japanese royal...
Public Transportation Systems
In Fukui Prefecture, you can easily get around using public transportation. 1. Trains: The primary train services are operated by JR West, connecting major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto to Fukui. You can use regional trains like the Echizen Railway to explore popular cities within the prefecture. 2. Buses:Local buses are also available to take you to various attractions, shopping areas, and more. Just make sure to check the schedule and routes in advance. When traveling by public transportat...
Goodwill Guide
A great resource for navigating your way through Fukui is by making use of a Goodwill Guide. These volunteer guidesprovide valuable information and support during your visits to popular sights and shopping destinations. They’ll also be able to help you with any transportation-related queries. Don’t forget to research beforehand to make the most of your time in Fukui Prefecture, and always be prepared with essential information such as train and bus schedules. With these transportation tips, y...
Awara
In Awara, a small city in Fukui Prefecture, you’ll find a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Many of these places offer onsen, or hot spring, experiences that are perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating yourself. If you’re looking for a traditional experience, try staying at a Ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. Awara has several ryokan options, some of which include: 1. Mimatsu: A charming ryokan with a beautiful garden and open-air baths. 2. Yukai Resort Hakusan Shoubutei: Offers both Ja...
Top attractions to visit?
In Fukui Prefecture, there are many must-visit attractions. Some popular options include Tojinbo Cliffs, Eiheiji Temple, and the Ichijodani Asakura Family Historic Ruins.
Best local dishes to try?
As you explore Fukui, don’t miss out on trying their delicious local cuisine. Be sure to taste the juicy Echizen crab, savory oroshi soba noodles, and delicate Wakasa fugu (pufferfish). For a sweet treat, indulge in some Manganji pepper tempura or Fukui’s famous habutae mochi.
Famous museums to explore?
Fukui has several interesting museums that cater to different interests. The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is an international standard, featuring fascinating exhibits and fossil replicas. Art enthusiasts should visit the Fukui Fine Arts Museum, while history buffs should explore the Fukui City History Museum.
- Discover your peace at Eiheji Temple. Eiheiji Temple sits on a mountain surrounded by cedar trees outside Fukui City. The temple was built in 1244 by Dogen, a scholar who introduce Soto Zen to Japan, making it one of the two main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism in Japan.
- Enjoy the seasonal views of Asuwa River. How about visiting Asuwa River to enjoy its seasonal views? Asuwa River is a popular river in Fukui City, best known for its beautiful cherry blossoms.
- Visit one of the most beautiful castles in Japan, Maruoka Castle. Maruoka Castle is relatively small compared to other castles in Japan, but it is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles.
- Explore Sotomo with a cruise boat. Make sure to sign up for the cabin cruiser tour around Sotomo when you are in Fukui! Sotomo is the openings at the bottom of a cliff that was created by sea erosion, and it’s located at the tip of Uchitomi Peninsula.
While most attractions lie just outside of the city center, there are a number of places that make Fukui city worth visiting such as the Ichijōdani Asakura Family Historic Ruins and the Asuwa River in spring.
Today, Fukui is known for premium seafood like Echizen Gani crab, as well as everyday favorites like Oroshi Soba noodles and Sauce Katsu-don pork cutlet bowls. Don’t miss these must-try local specialties.
Oct 18, 2020 · Fukui is the small capital of the prefecture of the same name, near the coast of the Sea of Japan, north of Nagoya. A former fortress city, Fukui was a stronghold of the Tokugawa era and is full of historical sites, fine museums, and a renowned garden.
