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.

Oshima Island

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.

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.

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.

Shindaij Temple, Echizen Daibutsu

With a height of 17 meters, surpassing even that of the Great Buddha of Nara, the Echizen Daibutsu is the largest indoor statue of the Great Buddha in Japan. There is also a beautiful Japanese garden where you can enjoy white plum blossoms, red plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, azaleas, autumn leaves and maple trees. You can enjoy all four seasons at this garden.

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.

Echizen Misaki Suisen Land

The Echizen Misaki Suisen Land, or Echizen Cape Daffodil Land, is located on a hill overlooking the Echizen coast. You can enjoy a panoramic view that changes depending on the time and season. In summer, you can see the lights of fishing boats in the distance, and in winter, you can enjoy the lovely daffodils blooming all around you.

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.

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.