Attractions/Experience

Ichijōdani Asakura Family Historic Ruins

Ichijōdani Asakura Family Historic Ruin is the ruins of a castle town of the Asakura clan, who ruled Echizen for five generations (1471-1574). At that time, the castle town was in no way inferior to Kyoto. The town has been restored, and now the mansions, temples and roads are just like they used to be. The ruins are still being excavated, and artifacts, such as tea sets, stationery and other objects of value to research have been discovered. This is a rich archaeological site that has been designated as a site of special historic significance and scenic beauty as well as an important cultural property. There are only a few such archaeological sites in Japan.

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Katsuyama City accounts for 80% of dinosaur fossils discovered in Japan, and the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the world's leading dinosaur museums.
There are fossils, dioramas, very realistic reconstructions of dinosaurs and forty full dinosaur skeletons on exhibition in this spacious museum.

Asuwayama Park

Asuwayama Park contains historical artifacts and burial mounds related to Emperor Keitai, who is said to be from Fukui. There is a natural history museum on the grounds as well as a literary memorial museum dedicated to the poet Tachibana Akemi, who was active at the end of the Edo Period.
It is an ideal place for citizens to relax while discussing the history of Fukui City.
In spring, about 3,500 cherry trees can be seen in full bloom, including the 350-year-old weeping cherry tree at Asuwa Shrine.

Maruoka Castle

Maruoka Castle, which was built in 1576 during the Sengoku period, is said to have the oldest architectural style among the twelve existing castle donjons in Japan.
In the beginning of April, cherry trees surrounding the castle are in full bloom, and are a truly magnificent sight.

Echizen Soba no Sato

The traditional taste of 90 years in business. You can experience making your own soba at the Experience Dream Factory and enjoy the taste of freshly made soba right on the spot. You can also just simply take a tour of the factory.

Asuwa River Cherry-Tree-Lined Path

Japan's largest row of cherry blossom trees
Six-hundred cherry trees line the banks of the Asuwa River, which runs through the center of Fukui City. They stretch over 2.2 kilometers and are said to be the longest path of cherry trees in Japan. They were originally planted thanks to donations from citizens of the city in hopes of a recovery from the Fukui earthquake. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the path along the river turns into a pink tunnel. This beautiful scenery has been selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom spots in Japan.
The Fukui Sakura Festival is held during the peak season and is crowded with cherry blossom spectators.

Shibamasa World

Surrounded by vast lawns and blessed with nice views of the sea, Shibamasa World is a water resort with many attractions, such as roller coasters and other rides. The huge water slide called “The Monster Wing" is very popular in the summer.

Tojinbo

Tojinbo is a nationally designated scenic spot with a spectacular view of the Sea of Japan.
Rough waves crash against 25-meter high cliffs that stretch as far as 1 km. It is a truly impressive sight. You can also ride a pleasure boat and enjoy the view of the magnificent cliffs from the sea.

Eiheiji Temple

Eiheiji Temple is a priesthood meditation complex founded by Dōgen Zenji in 1244.
Located beside a babbling brook in a secluded alpine valley on the side of Mt. Daibutsuji (lit. Mt. Great Buddha Temple), the complex consists of over 70 buildings of various sizes clustered around the main hall, bell tower, pagoda, and other essential temple structures.
Over 200 monks-in-training practice Buddhism here night and day. The grounds of the temple complex are about 100,000 tsubo (330,000 square meters) and surrounded by a thick forest of old-growth cedar trees, said to be over 700 years old. This quiet environment is perfectly suited to a sacred place of meditation for those entering the Buddhist priesthood

Takefu Knife Village

The Takefu Knife Village is an internationally-recognized production area of forged knives. Its knives have been selected to form a permanent collection in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The 700-year-old traditional technique originated in 1337, when a master of Kyoto during the period of Northern and Southern Dynasties, came to the Echizen region and made not only fighting swords but also sickles for farmers.