Fukui
Chubu
Known for Eiheiji Zen temple, Tojinbo cliffs, and the Echizen dinosaur museum.
Capital
Fukui
Best Time to Visit
Spring for Eiheiji Temple in fresh greenery; autumn for Tojinbo cliffs and foliage; May for dinosaur museum visits before summer crowds.
Getting There
From 2024, Hokuriku Shinkansen extends to Fukui (2h 40min from Tokyo, ~¥15,000). Previously required transfer at Maibara.
Top Highlights
Eiheiji Temple
Active training temple of the Soto Zen sect, founded in 1244 by Master Dogen, set in an ancient cedar forest with 70 interconnected wooden buildings.
Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
Japan's top dinosaur museum with 44 complete skeletons — Fukui has yielded multiple new species including Fukuiraptor.
Tojinbo Cliffs
Dramatic basalt sea cliffs rising 25m from the Japan Sea, shaped by volcanic eruption into striking hexagonal columns.
Maruoka Castle
One of Japan's twelve remaining original feudal castles — a modest but authentic hilltop fortress with Japan's oldest castle tower.
Local Cuisine
Echizen Crab (Zuwaigani)
Fukui's male snow crab, caught from November to March, is considered Japan's finest — briny, sweet, and delicate.
Oroshi Soba
Buckwheat noodles served cold with grated daikon radish — a Fukui specialty eaten in enormous "wanko" style challenge portions.
Sauce Katsu-don
Fukui's take on katsu-don: crispy pork cutlet dipped in Worcestershire-based sauce and served on rice — lighter than the egg-simmered Tokyo version.
Stay Connected in Fukui
Yesim eSIMs activate on arrival — no SIM swap needed. Japan data plans from $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay overnight at Eiheiji Temple?+
Yes, Eiheiji offers "sanro" overnight stays for those who want to experience temple life and early morning zazen meditation. Reservations required well in advance.
Things to Do in Fukui
12 sustainable experiences
Tsuruga Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Unleash your inner explorer on Tsuruga with a personalized journey, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and serene hidden spots. Our custom tours provide a bespoke experience, tailored to your desires, ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and culture enthusiasts alike. Discover
From US$650.63
Culinary Journey with Traditional Fishing Method Tour
Explore the Enigma: Experience the enigma by immersing yourself in the unique geographical environment of Lake Mikata. Nature Immersion: Delight in the picturesque landscapes of the nature-rich Lake Mikata with the guidance of experienced local guides, as it is designated under the Ramsar Convention
From US$133.42
Spirit of Craftsmanship in Japanese Papermaking in Echizen
Experience the profound spirituality and craftsmanship of Echizen Washi on a guided tour through its historic village. First, enjoy a hands-on paper-making experience under the guidance of skilled artisans. Next, visit a workshop specializing in large-format washi, highly sought after by artists. F
From US$350
Echizen Washi Calligraphy Experience
Experience traditional calligraphy in this beautiful building. Enjoy a delicious local meal for lunch. If you wish, we can frame your calligraphy work for an additional fee. In the afternoon, you can visit the traditional Otaki Shrine and pray for improvement in your handwriting.
From US$226.14
Shamisen Experience: Mikuni Cultural Tour with Local Guide
OUTLINE This is a special program designed to help you learn about the culture of Mikuni-cho, Fukui Prefecture, through a multi-sensory shamisen experience. After gathering at Mikuni Station, we will stroll through the streets of this town that once flourished as a port. Following the walk, you wil
From US$64.61
Explore a Historic Zen Miso Brewery & Miso Soup Cooking
Discover the story of Japanese food culture and the spirit of Zen hidden in a bowl of miso soup. Join a guided tour of Komego Miso, a traditional miso brewery that has been producing Japan’s essential fermented seasoning for about 200 years, and deepen your understanding of Japanese cuisine and ferm
From US$226.14
Craft a Unique and Colorful Ring Using Glasses Materials at KISSO
Guests will get to learn about the glasses and the accessory making process at KISSO which produces high quality accessories using glasses materials. You will get to see the rarely seen behind the scenes of a accessory making factory. You will then make your own ring by fitting your favorite glasses
From US$96.92
Craft Trousers from Japanese Textiles Activity
Sustainable Fashion: Create your own custom-fit trousers by upcycling high-quality remnant fabrics. Expert Guidance: Learn advanced sewing and pattern-making techniques from experienced professionals. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Enjoy a special tour of a working textile factory. A Truly Personal Cr
From US$226.14
Echizen Pottery and Echizen Chest Tour with Japanese Sake Tasting
The Echizen region of Fukui Prefecture has been designated as one of the "Six Ancient Kilns of Japan," and is well known for Echizen lacquerware, pottery, and cutlery. Come and try to make your own sake cup with the guidance of a craftsperson. Afterwards, go onto taste the region's traditional dishe
From US$420.11
Echizen Pottery and Echizen Chest Tour with Japanese Sake Tasting
The Echizen region of Fukui Prefecture has been designated as one of the "Six Ancient Kilns of Japan," and is well known for Echizen lacquerware, pottery, and cutlery. Come and try to make your own sake cup with the guidance of a craftsperson. Afterwards, go onto taste the region's traditional dishe
From US$419.97
Sake Tasting and Making Your Own Washi Sake Label
Echizen washi paper, which boasts a history of over 1500 years, is a traditional craft that Fukui is proud of, and is used for labels of sake and whiskey due to its beauty and strength. After learning about sake brewing at one of Fukui's leading sake breweries, Symphony Yoshida Sake Brewery, where y
From US$420.11
Sake Tasting and Making Your Own Washi Sake Label
Echizen washi paper, which boasts a history of over 1500 years, is a traditional craft that Fukui is proud of, and is used for labels of sake and whiskey due to its beauty and strength. After learning about sake brewing at one of Fukui's leading sake breweries, Symphony Yoshida Sake Brewery, where y
From US$419.97