The Four Seasons of Fukui

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Japan is famous for its four distinct seasons, and Fukui ーlocated in the middle of the country's Honshu main islandー is a great place to experience them all. 


Since ancient times, people in Fukui have led their lives according to the seasons. Each one comes with its beautifully unique scenery, activities, foods, and events to enjoy, a selection of which is introduced on this page.

The Four Seasons of Fukui

Spring (March - May)

From March to May, average daytime temperatures in Fukui range from approximately 7 to 18°C (45 to 64°F). While daytime highs can reach up to 23°C (73°F), temperatures can also drop as low as 3°C (37°F), so mornings and evenings can be quite chilly. It might be a good idea to bring a light coat with you and layer during your trip.

Hanami: The Japanese Art of Admiring Flowers

Spring in Japan is synonymous with flowers, starting with the delicate sakura cherry blossoms. In Fukui, you can take in the view away from crowds. And to make the fun last longer, follow the "sakura front" as it moves from the south to the north of Fukui around from late March to mid-April.


Other flowers, such as ume plums, wisterias, and azaleas, are also a staple in some areas of Fukui.

Cherry Blossoms along the Asuwa River
In Fukui City, the banks of the Asuwa River are a beloved springtime destination for cherry blossoms. Some 600 trees line a stre…
Cherry Blossoms along the Asuwa River
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Maruoka Castle
Maruoka Castle dates back to 1576, and is one of only twelve original castle towers remaining in Japan today. In early and mid A…
Maruoka Castle
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Katsuyama Bentenzakura Cherry Trees
The Bentenzakura Cherry Blossom Avenue, stretching approximately 1.5 km along the right bank of the Kuzuryu River, is known as &…
Katsuyama Bentenzakura Cherry Trees
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Kanegasaki-gu Shrine
This is the old battlefield where Nitta Yoshisada, the protector of Prince Tsunenaga and Prince Takera, fought against the Ashik…
Kanegasaki-gu Shrine
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Mountain Cherry Blossoms of Miko
Located on the Tsunejima Peninsula, the town of Miko features approximately 300 magnificent mountain cherry trees designated as …
Mountain Cherry Blossoms of Miko
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Murasaki Shikibu Park
Echizen City is where Murasaki Shikibu (970–1019), the author of The Tale of Genji, lived away from the capital for the on…
Murasaki Shikibu Park
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Azaleas of Nishiyama Park
With approximately 50,000 azaleas in full bloom, it is the most famous azalea viewing spot on the Sea of Japan coast. Every year…
Azaleas of Nishiyama Park
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Mountain Climbing & Hiking

Spring, with its comfortably mild climate, is a great time for outdoor activites. Lined with many mountains and lush nature, Fukui is the ideal place to enjoy mountain climbing and hiking in Japan.

Mount Monju
Mount Monju is a sacred mountain founded by the great monk Taichō in the first year of the Yōrō era (717), approximately 1,300 y…
Mount Monju
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Bukozan
Elevation: 1,464m. A gentle mountain with a feminine appearance, accessible by car up to a point 4.6 kilometers from the summit.…
Bukozan
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Mt. Akausagi
A mountain on the border with Ishikawa Prefecture.Its gentle, rounded silhouette resembles a rabbit, hence the name.Near the dis…
Mt. Akausagi
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Toriage Mountain
Located on the border of Ishikawa Prefecture, it is renowned as a mountain where skunk cabbages bloom profusely in early spring.…
Toriage Mountain
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Mount Arajima
Mount Arajima, towering over the southeast of the Ono Basin, is renowned for its beautiful form and has been selected as one of …
Mount Arajima
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Ochi Shrine
The summit area of Mount Ochi is said to have once been a sacred mountain site blending Shinto and Buddhist elements. Near the t…
Ochi Shrine
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Aobayama
Known as "Wakasa Fuji" for its beautiful mountain silhouette, this symbol of Takahama Town is also popular for hiking. Composed …
Aobayama
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Spring Delicacies

Here is a list of seasonal foods you must try if you are around Fukui in the spring.

Squid
Squid is one of the most beloved seafoods in Japan. With each season comes a different type of squid, but Fukui is one of the few places where fresh squid is caught year-round.
Squid
Wild Wakame Seaweed
In spring, local ama (female free divers) harvest wild wakame seaweed by hand—a true taste of the season. Don’t miss the handmade powdered wakame, a hidden gem known only to those in the know.
Wild Wakame Seaweed

Spring Events

Fun events, including many hanami-themed ones, are held across the prefecture throughout the season.

Omizu-Okuri "Water-Sending" Ritual
 Omizusuri, a Shinto ritual that heralds spring in Wakasa, is held every year on March 2.Prior to the "Omizutori"…
Omizu-Okuri "Water-Sending" Ritual
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Fukui Sakura Marathon
The Fukui Sakura Marathon is a 42.195-km marathon held under the concept of "a pointy full marathon that Fukui can be proud…
Fukui Sakura Marathon
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Hanakae “Flower Exchange” Festival
Early each April, Kanegasaki-gu Shrine holds its Flower-Exchanging Festival. This festival is based on an old tradition: young m…
Hanakae “Flower Exchange” Festival
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Fukui Cherry Blossom Festival
March 21 (Sat) -April 5 (Sun), 2026The History of Fukui's Cherry Blossoms and FestivalsFollowing the Fukui Reconstruction Ex…
Fukui Cherry Blossom Festival
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Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival
Maruoka Castle, selected as one of the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," is a magnificent castle with its cast…
Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival
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Mikuni Festival
The Mikuni Festival will be held again this year from Monday, May 19 to Wednesday, May 21.Mikuni Matsuri is an annual festival o…
Mikuni Festival
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Echizen Pottery Festival
The Echizen Pottery Festival is held in late May each year. The centerpiece of the festival is a giant pottery market. Dozens of…
Echizen Pottery Festival
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Summer (June - August)

In summer, average daytime temperatures in Fukui range from 22 to 27°C (72 to 81°F). While the lows are around 18°C (64°F), highs can reach up to 32°C (90°F). Combined with high humidity, it can feel even hotter than the actual temperature, so make sure to bring something light to wear during your time in Fukui.

Seaside Beaches

A great way to cool off during hot Japanese summer days is to head over to the beach, and Fukui ーfacing the beautiful Sea of Japanー showcases a great variety of clean, safe options for beachgoers to relax, swim, and enjoy marine activities at.

Wakasa Wada Beach
Wakasa-wada Beach, near the southwestern tip of Fukui, is a popular summer destination for its soft white sand and shallow, clea…
Wakasa Wada Beach
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Shiroyama Park, Meikyodo Cave (Shiroyama Swimming Beach)
Shiroyama Park, the site of Takahama Castle built by Masanori Itsumi in the Warring States Period, has the famous Meikyodo Cave …
Shiroyama Park, Meikyodo Cave (Shiroyama Swimming Beach)
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Suishohama Swimming Beach
Suishohama Beach (literally, “Crystal Beach”) is a lively destination in summer, to swim or to enjoy the beach. In a…
Suishohama Swimming Beach
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Mizushima Island
The island of Mizushima is a small, uninhabited island just 100 meters off the end of the Tsuruga Peninsula. This lively summer …
Mizushima Island
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Kehi no Matsubara Pine Grove
Kehi no Matsubara is a beach over a kilometer long, lined with some 17,000 Japanese red and black pine trees. There are walking …
Kehi no Matsubara Pine Grove
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Mikuni Sunset Beach
Mikuni Sunset Beach, on the northeastern coast of Fukui, is a popular summer destination for families throughout the area for it…
Mikuni Sunset Beach
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Takasu Swimming Beach
One of the Sea of Japan's most pristine beaches, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Nearby, numerous guesthouses and inn…
Takasu Swimming Beach
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Camping & BBQ

With its untouched nature and stunning night sky, Fukui is the ideal place to try out some camping in Japan. Glamping options including camping equipment and/or a fully-furnished cottage, are also available.

Juraku Forest
A forest of approximately 30,000 square meters features campsites limited to about 10 groups, glamping sites, cabins with saunas…
Juraku Forest
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forêt de repos (Dinosaur Hotel)
At forêt de repos (Lupo no Mori), you can enjoy glamping in domes with a natural hot spring inn attached, along with a var…
forêt de repos (Dinosaur Hotel)
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Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda
Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda offers fun and excitement in the great outdoors. The Mega Zipline is a two-stage zipline course, tra…
Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda
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Forest Camp Base: The Forest of Timeless Romance
Stars twinkle, and you feel the forest's breath.Hear nature's voice in the timeless grove. In the forest overlooking Mount Ochi,…
Forest Camp Base: The Forest of Timeless Romance
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SANZA KUMAGAWA
To help you fully enjoy mountain livingwe've prepared the perfect environment.A mountain lodge available for exclusive renta…
SANZA KUMAGAWA
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Akagurizaki Auto Campground
This campground offers beautiful views of Wakasa Bay, where you can wake to the sound of the waves and enjoy fun barbecues under…
Akagurizaki Auto Campground
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Summer Delicacies

Here are some delicious foods that are in season during the summer months.

Fukui Ume Plum
The Fukui ume plum is packed with minerals that promote beauty and health. Known for its small pits and generous, flavorful flesh, it’s highly prized as a delicious treat—and is even famously gifted to sumo champions.
Fukui Ume Plum
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Ayu Sweetfish
With abundant water, a fast current, and crystal-clear flow, the Kuzuryu River—Fukui’s longest and most renowned—provides the perfect conditions for high-quality algae to grow, which in turn nurtures some of the finest sweetfish (ayu) in the region.
Ayu Sweetfish
Wakasa Guji Red Tilefish
The red tilefish caught in Wakasa Bay, known as Wakasa guji, has been loved by high-end restaurants in Kyoto since ancient times. With its delicate sweetness that gently spreads across the palate and its elegant appearance, it remains an essential ingredient in Kyoto traditional cuisine to this day.
Wakasa Guji Red Tilefish
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Echizen Uni Sea Urchin
The rocky coastal waters of Fukui are rich with high-quality seaweed, which serves as ideal food for sea urchins to grow flavorful and sweet. The taste of Echizen uni (sea urchin from Fukui) is a proud part of the region’s culinary culture—perfect over warm rice or as a savory pairing with sake.
Echizen Uni Sea Urchin
Wakasa Rock Oyters
The waters of Wakasa provide the perfect conditions for delicious rock oysters to thrive. Clean seas and the rich natural environment, including the mountains that meet the coast, create an ideal habitat. Enjoy the fresh, plump, and flavorful rock oysters that Wakasa is famous for.
Wakasa Rock Oyters
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Matsuri Festivals and Fireworks

Local matsuri festivals in Japan ーsome of which have been going on for hundreds if not thousands of yearsー offer a glimpse into Japanese traditions and culture, and an amazing opportunity to mingle with locals and try Japanese festival staple foods.

Wakasa Takahama Fireworks Festival
The "Wakasa Takahama Fireworks Festival" attracts many spectators every year as a summer tradition in Wakasa Takahama.…
Wakasa Takahama Fireworks Festival
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Fukui Phoenix Festival
The Fukui Phoenix Festival began in 1954, wishing for "the joy of recovery and further development" after overcoming d…
Fukui Phoenix Festival
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Awara Hot Water Festival
This is a nationally rare event in which hot water from the Awara hot springs is poured over a portable shrine.Children and adul…
Awara Hot Water Festival
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Otaiko Hibike Taiko Drumming Festival
Otaiko Hibike is one of Japan’s largest festivals dedicated to taiko drumming. Every August, the outdoor recreation facili…
Otaiko Hibike Taiko Drumming Festival
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Millennium Future Arts & Crafts Festival
Two days to encounter contemporary crafts!Exhibition, market, workshops.A festival of crafts where you can meet artisans and the…
Millennium Future Arts & Crafts Festival
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Fall (September - November)

As autumn deepens, average daytime temperatures in Fukui drop from around 23°C (73°F) to 11°C (52°F). Highs can reach up to 28°C (82°F), while lows may fall to 7°C (45°F), so we recommend bringing a light coat with you and layering during your trip, especially in the mornings and evenings later in the season.

Fall Leaves

Fall in Japan is simply stunning. In Fukui, too, colorful fall leaves can be seen around historic sites, shrines and temples, parks and gardens, and many other places!

Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins (Ichijodani Asakura Family Site)
The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins, located in Ichijodani about 10 km southeast of Fukui City, were once a castle town during the…
Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins (Ichijodani Asakura Family Site)
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Yokokan Garden
A 10-minute walk from Fukui Station and about 5 minutes from the ruins of Fukui Castle, Yokokan Garden is known for its harmony …
Yokokan Garden
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Lake Kuzuryu
Lake Kuzuryu was created in the mountains of eastern Fukui in 1968, when a hydroelectric dam was built on the Kuzuryu River. The…
Lake Kuzuryu
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Eiheiji Temple
The temple of Eiheiji was established in 1244 as a temple of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism, by Zen Master Dogen (1200–12…
Eiheiji Temple
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Kakyo Park (Usuzumi Sakura Cherry Tree)
Kakyo Park was established in honor of Echizen’s ties to Emperor Keitai (c. 450–c. 531). The park is known for its b…
Kakyo Park (Usuzumi Sakura Cherry Tree)
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Saifukuji Temple
The Jodo Buddhist temple Saifukuji was built in 1368. The temple is best known for its huge garden, more than 4,600 square meter…
Saifukuji Temple
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Mantokuji Temple
Mantokuji Temple is a Shingon Buddhist temple best known for its hillside landscape garden and carefully raked rock garden. Thes…
Mantokuji Temple
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Myotsuji Temple
Myotsuji Temple is located in the mountains of Obama, surrounded by peaceful forests. The temple’s Hondo main hall and thr…
Myotsuji Temple
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Cycling

Just like spring, fall is the perfect season to enjoy the great outdoors, and cycling is a fun way to get around. You can rent bicycles at most major train stations around Fukui. 


The Wakasa Bay Cycling Route, or Waka-Cycle, is a 126km-long route that runs along the picturesque Wakasa Bay in southern Fukui. With few ups and downs, the route can be enjoyed by both beginners and cycling enthusiasts. You can strive to complete the entire route, or just try short courses in each area.

Fall Delicacies

Here are some of the seasonal ingredients at their peak during the fall.

Echizen Oroshi Soba
Echizen Oroshi Soba is typically served with green onions and dried bonito flakes. The flavorful buckwheat noodles pair perfectly with the sharp, spicy kick of grated daikon radish. Though a simple dish, its taste is rich and complex, and it has recently gained attention as a food that promotes longevity.
Echizen Oroshi Soba
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Fukui Rice
Fukui Prefecture, the birthplace of Japan’s famous Koshihikari rice, begins its rice harvest around the end of August. The region’s unique climate, soil, and water create rice that’s sweet, glossy, and delicious even when cooled—making it truly special.
Fukui Rice
Amaebi Sweet Shrimp
The most prized Amaebi (sweet shrimp) are the “komochi” variety, which carry small blue eggs on their abdomen. These shrimp boast a glossy, vibrant red color that’s truly mesmerizing. Once you taste them, you’ll notice a delicate hint of the sea, along with a rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness.
Amaebi Sweet Shrimp
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Fall Events

Many traditional matsuri festivals take place in the fall. And every year, November 6th marks the beginning of crab season in Fukui, so several events are held across the prefecture to celebrate.

Tsuruga Festival
The "Kibi Jingu Festival" is famous as "Kibi no Choumatsuri", which starts on September 2 as Yoimiya Matsuri…
Tsuruga Festival
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Wakasa Ohi Super Fireworks Festival
Saturday, September 6, 2025The "Super Fire Festival," a giant torch in the shape of a tree leaf, 20 meters high and we…
Wakasa Ohi Super Fireworks Festival
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Megane (Glasses) Festival
The concept is "Thank you, glasses!Megane Fest" has been held for more than 10 years in Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture, …
Megane (Glasses) Festival
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Mikuni Minato Obi no Machi Nagashi
Mikuni Minato prospered as a port of call for Kitamae-bune (Kitamaebune) ships, and even today it retains the emotional atmosphe…
Mikuni Minato Obi no Machi Nagashi
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Renew
RENEW" is an industrial tourism tour event held in Sabae City, Echizen City, and Echizen Town, Fukui Prefecture, with the a…
Renew
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Takefu Chrysanthemum Doll Festival
The Takefu Chrysanthemum Dolls, held annually from early October to early November, is an autumn tradition in Hokuriku!This year…
Takefu Chrysanthemum Doll Festival
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Echizen Crab Festival
The largest crab festival in Fukui Prefecture, held in Echizen Town—the holy land of Echizen Gani snow crabs, boasting abo…
Echizen Crab Festival
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Winter (December - February)

In winter, average daytime temperatures in Fukui range from about 3 to 6°C (37 to 43°F). Highs can reach up to 10°C (50°F), while lows may drop to 0°C (32°F), so make sure to bring a winter coat and boots, as well as warm clothes, if you want to make the most of your time in this winter wonderland.

Ski & Snow Resorts

Fukui’s heavy snowfalls make it a popular destination for winter sports. Its resorts feature a variety of trails, suited to everyone from beginners to experts. Rental equipment is also available for both skiers and snowboarders at select resorts, and lessons are sometimes available in English.

SkiJam Katsuyama
Ski Jam Katsuyama is one of Western Japan's largest ski resorts, located on Hōonji Mountain in Katsuyama City. Opened in 199…
SkiJam Katsuyama
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Fukui Izumi Ski Resort
SOY JOY Park offers fun for everyone from beginners to experts, featuring three lanes with varied-sized features suited to diffe…
Fukui Izumi Ski Resort
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Kuzuryu Ski Resort
Our slopes range from gentle inclines averaging 15 degrees to steep runs reaching 41 degrees, and snowboarding is permitted on a…
Kuzuryu Ski Resort
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Shinbo Family Ski Resort
Please check our website ( http://www.ski.ikeda-kibou.com/ ) for current operating hours. This ski resort features gentle slopes…
Shinbo Family Ski Resort
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Imajo 365 Ski Resort
On clear days, the Imazuka 365 Ski Resort offers a breathtaking panorama of nature, with views stretching to the distant Hakusan…
Imajo 365 Ski Resort
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Onsen Hot Springs & Sento Public Baths

Fukui experiences heavy snowfall in winter, making it an ideal destination not only for winter sports but also for relaxing hot spring getaways. While you can enjoy bathing culture at various ryokan inns, hotels, and public baths throughout the prefecture, for a truly authentic onsen experience, be sure to visit Awara Onsen—the largest hot spring area in Fukui.


Awara Onsen is Fukui’s largest hot spring resort town, with many hot spring inns of all sizes. The hot spring baths at many of these inns are open to the public during the day—in the evenings, they are limited to overnight guests. In the evening, the small restaurants of Yukemuri Yokocho open across the street from the station, for dinner, drinks, and friendly conversation.


Many of the town’s hot spring inns are within walking distance of the local train station, and free shuttle buses are available.

Winter Delicacies

Winter, when fish put on some weight to get through the season, is said to be the best time for seafood. Located right where cold currents from the north and warm currents from the south intersect, creating the perfect environment for plankton to flourish, Fukui's waters provide the prefecture with plenty of delicious options during the season.

Echizen Gani Crab
Season: November through March
Echizen Gani crabs are packed with sweet, firm meat and crab paste, earning them the local nickname “the king of winter foods.” Crab connoisseurs know to also look for Seiko Gani Crab, or female snow crabs, which are smaller but full of delicious eggs.
Echizen Gani Crab
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Wakasa Fugu
Among edible pufferfish, the most delicious and prized variety is known as the “tiger puffer” (torafugu). In Wakasa, Fukui Prefecture, the snowmelt keeps the waters colder for longer than in other regions. Raised in these cold, harsh winter conditions—but in relatively calm waves—the Wakasa torafugu develops firm flesh and accumulates rich, savory flavors.
Wakasa Fugu
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Heshiko
Heshiko is a flavorful, traditional preserved food made by pickling fish, usually mackerel, in salt and rice bran. Dating from the Edo period (1603–1867), it was a crucial protein source for coastal communities along the Sea of Japan in the winter. Today, heshiko remains popular for its bold, umami-packed flavor that pairs well with sake.
Heshiko
Sake
Sake is usually made in the winter in Japan, and Fukui Prefecture is a leading sake-producing region, with over 30 breweries that benefit from its fertile soil, clean water, and centuries of expertise.
Sake
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Mizu-Yokan
In Fukui, if you want to spend winter like a true local, get under your kotatsu heating table and grab a box of mizu-yokan. The Japanese sweet ―made of sugar, red bean paste and agar gelatin― may be eaten on hot summer days in other parts of the country, it has long been synonymous with wintertime around here.
Mizu-Yokan

Winter Events

Local matsuri festivals continue well into the colder season, including some celebrating the Japanese New Year.

Eiheiji Temple New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing and Illumination
On New Year’s Eve, the bell and central gate of Eiheiji Temple are lit up. Visitors are invited to ring the bell—tra…
Eiheiji Temple New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing and Illumination
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Daffodil Festival
The Echizen Coast is renowned as a major natural habitat for Japanese narcissus, counted among the "Three Great Natural Hab…
Daffodil Festival
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Underwater Tug-of-War in Hiruga
The Mihama Hiruga Underwater Tug-of-War is held on the third Sunday of January. Young men from the town of Mihama hold a tug-of-…
Underwater Tug-of-War in Hiruga
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Mizuumi Dengaku and Noh Dances
The "Mizumi no Dengaku Noh Dance," which has been handed down since the Kamakura period (1185-1333), has been performe…
Mizuumi Dengaku and Noh Dances
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Katsuyama Sagicho Festival
The Sagicho Festival is held in Katsuyama on the last full weekend of February. This festival celebrates the coming of spring, a…
Katsuyama Sagicho Festival
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Column

Where to Stay in Fukui

From seaside guesthouses and mountain ski resorts to traditional ryokan inns and historical townhouses, whatever your travel style, Fukui has a place for you. Many Western-style hotels, including some international chains, are also available throughout the prefecture.

Where to Stay in Fukui
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