FAQ
This page provides answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Fukui Prefecture.
You can find useful information about transportation, sightseeing spots, accommodations, and seasonal highlights.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please feel free to contact us through the Contact Us page.
Where is Fukui Prefecture located?
Fukui Prefecture is located in the Hokuriku region on the Sea of Japan, in the center of the Japanese archipelago. It lies roughly halfway between Kyoto and Kanazawa, and can be reached from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya in about 2 to 3.5 hours by train.
Surrounded by mountains and the sea, Fukui offers beautiful scenery in every season. The prefecture is also known for its traditional craftsmanship—such as Echizen Washi paper, Echizen pottery, and Echizen lacquerware—which continues to thrive today.
In the southern Wakasa region, a historic area once known as Miketsukuni, fresh seafood and high-quality ingredients were long supplied to the Imperial Court, and this rich food culture is still alive today.
Fukui is also home to Eiheiji Temple, the head temple of Zen Buddhism, where visitors can experience a peaceful way of life in harmony with nature.
For more details about Fukui Prefecture, please refer to the “Guide for First-Time Visitors” page.
How can I access Fukui Prefecture from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya?
Fukui Prefecture is easily accessible from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Travelers can reach Fukui conveniently by train, airplane, or highway bus.
For detailed information, please visit the official “Getting to Fukui” page.
From Tokyo
By Shinkansen: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen directly from Tokyo Station to Fukui Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes.
By Air + Train: Fly from Haneda Airport to Komatsu Airport (approx. 1 hour), take an airport limousine bus (10 min) to Komatsu Station, then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen (approx. 25 min) to Fukui. The total travel time is about 2 hours.
From Osaka / Nagoya
From Osaka and Nagoya, you can take a limited express train, private railway, or highway bus. The trip takes about 2 hours from Osaka and a similar time from Nagoya.
For current timetables and fares, please select “Osaka” or “Nagoya” under “Select Starting Point” on the official page above.
What are the main tourist attractions in Fukui Prefecture?
Fukui Prefecture offers a variety of unique attractions that combine the beauty of the sea, mountains, and traditional culture.
Tojinbo Cliffs, facing the Sea of Japan, are designated as a national scenic spot. The rough cliffs stretch for over one kilometer, creating a breathtaking view, especially at sunset. The sightseeing cruise that lets you admire the cliffs from the sea is also very popular.
Eiheiji Temple, founded in 1244, is the head temple of Zen Buddhism. Even today, monks devote themselves to rigorous training here. Visitors can experience a sense of peace and mindfulness within its solemn and serene atmosphere.
At Takefu Knife Village, you can watch world-class artisans at work and even try crafting your own kitchen knife. It is one of the best places to experience Fukui’s proud craftsmanship and manufacturing culture.
From the Rainbow Line Summit Park, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Wakasa Bay area, where the sea and mountains meet in stunning harmony. Known as a “Lover’s Sanctuary,” the park also features a relaxing footbath and a scenic café.
Fukui is a place where grand nature, artisanal skills, and spiritual tranquility coexist in perfect balance.
For more information about tourist attractions in Fukui Prefecture, please visit the Attractions page.
What traditional cultural experiences can I enjoy in Fukui?
Fukui offers a wide range of hands-on activities that international visitors can enjoy.
You can experience traditional crafts such as making Echizen Washi (handmade Japanese paper), creating lacquerware designs in the Echizen Urushi maki-e workshop, or crafting Echizen Uchihamono (forged knives) together with skilled artisans.
Please note that advance reservations are required for most activities.
You can book various experiences and accommodations within Fukui Prefecture through the Booking.
Where can I find information about event schedules and crowd conditions?
Fukui Prefecture hosts a variety of seasonal events, such as cherry blossom festivals in spring, fireworks displays in summer, autumn foliage events in fall, and crab-related festivities in winter.
The latest event information is updated regularly on the “Events” page, so please take a look when planning your visit.
Please note that crowd conditions vary by event.
For details, we kindly ask you to contact the event organizers directly.
Where can I get sightseeing brochures?
Fukui’s sightseeing brochures can be viewed on the “Brochures” page.
You can access useful materials for planning your trip—such as information on attractions, experiences, and transportation—anytime online.
Printed brochures are also available at several tourist information centers, including the Fukui Tourist Information Center.
These are recommended for travelers who prefer to have maps or booklets on hand while exploring.
Where are the tourist information centers located?
Tourist information centers are located throughout Fukui Prefecture, offering travel assistance and multilingual support.
In addition to providing maps, event information, and brochures, staff can also assist you in languages such as English and Chinese.
For a full list of locations, opening hours, and other details, please visit the official Tourist Information Center page.
Are there coin lockers or luggage storage services at major train stations in Fukui?
Coin lockers and luggage storage services are available at major stations in Fukui Prefecture.
Some nearby facilities may also have lockers available.
Locker sizes and fees vary by station, so please check the latest information when you visit.
■ Fukui Station
Coin lockers: Available (approx. 117 units)
Small: ¥400 (355 × 645 × 404 mm)
Medium: ¥600 (355 × 645 × 550 mm)
Large: ¥800 (355 × 645 × 843 mm)
■ Awara Onsen Station
Coin lockers: Available (28 units)
Small: ¥300 (35 × 31 × 57 cm) × 15
Medium: ¥400 (35 × 54 × 57 cm) × 11
Large: ¥600 (suitable for carry-on luggage) × 2
■ Tsuruga Station
Coin lockers: Available (multiple locations)
Small: ¥300–400
Medium: ¥400–600
Large: ¥600–800
Extra large: ¥800–900
■ Echizen-Takefu Station
Coin lockers: Available (listed on JR official site)
Size and fee details are not published.
→ If you plan to use them, please check directly with the station staff or a nearby tourist information center.
What should I do if I lose or find something during my trip?
If you lose something in Fukui Prefecture, please inform the staff at the nearest station, tourist facility, or shop.
Items found within a facility are kept at that facility’s management desk.
If you find lost property in a public place such as a road or park, please take it to the nearest police box (koban) or police station.
If you are not confident in communicating in Japanese, you can also ask for assistance at a tourist information center or consult the staff at your accommodation.
Where can I find emergency contact numbers or assistance services?
On this website, we provide important updates—such as disaster alerts, traffic restrictions, and evacuation information—on the “Emergency Information” page.
Please refer to this page if sudden weather changes or emergencies occur during your trip.