DISCOVER FUKUI

From Takefu, where the provincial capital was located, one had to cross rugged mountains to reach the capital. However, crossing the lower mountains west of Takefu led to Minami-Echizen Town, from where it was relatively easy to reach Tsuruga by boat. In the medieval and early modern periods, waterborne transportation of goods flourished, and this route connecting the ports of Takefu and Minami-Echizen Town became an important highway. As transporters known as "horse hiremen" (ubashira) played a vital role in moving goods, the route became known as the Fuchu Horse Hiremen Road. Ridge trails remain, some with double lanes built to separate ascending and descending cargo or serve as transfer points.