Are you planning a trip to Fukui, Japan? Welcome to the “Dinosaur Capital” of Japan—Fukui Prefecture! This is not only a sanctuary for dinosaur enthusiasts but also home to world-class scenery and mouth-watering cuisine. We have curated a selection of the top 10 things to eat, drink, and do in Fukui. From breathtaking dinosaur fossils to soul-cleansing ancient temples, follow this guide for a perfect trip!
Dinosaur Fans, Get Ready to Scream! Unmissable Dinosaur-Themed Highlights
Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
Ranked No. 1 in Japan for fossil excavations! As one of the world’s three major dinosaur museums, it houses over 50 complete dinosaur skeletons, making it a bucket-list destination for dinosaur fans.
- Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
- Address: 51-1 Murokocho Terao, Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture
Echizen Railway Dinosaur Train
※Online Reservation Required
Riding the Dinosaur Train feels like traveling through time into a Jurassic world, marking the beginning of an adventure. The train cars are divided into two themes; the “Jurassic Zone” features a jungle-styled interior with dinosaur footprints on the floor. The realistic 3D dinosaur heads, Triceratops, and baby dinosaurs inside are truly impressive, allowing you to observe dinosaur skin textures and teeth up close with intense impact.
Image Source：© 2024 Echizen Railway.
- Echizen Railway Dinosaur Train
- Address: 1-1-3 Chuo, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture
Around Fukui Station
Prepare to be amazed the moment you exit the station! The plaza features giant, moving, and roaring dinosaur installations along with exquisite dinosaur murals. You’ll find your phone storage full of photos before the tour even begins!
- Fukui Station
- Address: 1-1-1 Chuo, Fukui City
A Deep Dialogue Between Nature and Humanity
Echizen Matsushima Aquarium
An experiential aquarium focused on “Observing,” “Touching,” and “Fun Learning.” Besides observing marine life up close, the most popular attraction is the “Adorable Penguin Walk!” Watching them waddle along is guaranteed to melt your heart. You can also experience the sensation of “floating on the sea” through a glass floor.
- Echizen Matsushima Aquarium
- Address: 74-2-3 Mikunicho Saki, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture
Eiheiji Temple
A major Zen Buddhist site with over 700 years of history, it is said that even Apple founder Steve Jobs once yearned to practice meditation here. The atmosphere is solemn and serene. The temple buildings are known as “Garan” (a pure place for monks to practice). The complex consists of the Dharma Hall, Buddha Hall, Monks’ Hall, Kitchen, Sanmon Gate, Tosu (toilet), and Yokushitsu (bath), collectively called the “Shichido Garan.” Among them, the Sanmon Gate was built in a Tang Dynasty wooden style and is the oldest structure in Eiheiji.
- Eiheiji Temple
- Address: 5-15 Shihi, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida District, Fukui Prefecture
Tojinbo
Image Source：photo AC
A world-class scenic spot featuring “columnar joint” cliffs. Face the crashing waves of the Sea of Japan and feel the majestic craftsmanship of nature. Its rarity has earned it a designation as a National Natural Monument of Japan and a place among the “Top 100 Geological Sites of Japan.” The magnificent geology makes one marvel at nature’s wonders, and the sunset view is absolutely worth seeing.
- Tojinbo
- Address: Tojinbo, Mikunicho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture
Maruoka Castle
One of Japan’s “Twelve Existing Tenshu” (original castle towers) and one of the oldest surviving towers. Legend has it that whenever enemies attacked, the castle would be shrouded in thick mist as if protected by a natural shield, earning it the mysterious nickname “Mist Castle.” Looking down from the top floor of the tower, you can enjoy the cityscape of Sakai City.
- Maruoka Castle
- Address: 1-59 Kasumicho, Maruokacho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture
The Foodie’s Checklist! Signature Fukui Delicacies
Crab Vending Machine
A unique Fukui flex! On the Shinkansen platform of JR Fukui Station, there is actually a crab vending machine. Simply insert coins to buy fresh crab, rich crab paste, and crab rice balls, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious seafood flavor anytime.
Eiheiji Daruma Pudding
Located about a 5-minute walk from Eiheiji Temple, this specialty shop sells puddings with cute Daruma faces printed on the jars. Made with carefully selected local ingredients, the Daruma pudding is smooth, soft, and melts in your mouth—a local star dessert worth waiting in line for!
- Eiheiji Daruma Pudding
- Address: 28-2 Shihi, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida District (Eiheiji Store)
Echizen Oroshi Soba
A Fukui specialty! This dish adds spicy grated radish and a special sauce to buckwheat noodles, making it refreshing and appetizing. The more you chew, the more the aroma of the buckwheat emerges.
- Amida Soba Fukunoi Store
- Address: 1F Happiring, 1-2-1 Chuo, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture
Who says Fukui is boring? From breathtaking cliff views to Zen meditation sanctuaries loved by Steve Jobs, plus endless seafood and desserts, Fukui is definitely a hidden treasure of Japan’s Hokuriku region! After reading this article, hurry up and start planning your Fukui journey!
