DISCOVER FUKUI

Fukui is known for outstanding foods from both land and sea, and many of the prefecture’s most popular dishes are built around at least one local ingredient. Some of these foods are only available in certain communities, while others are ever…

The founder of the temple of Eiheiji, Zen Master Dogen (1200–1253), laid the foundations here in Fukui for shojin ryori Buddhist cuisine in Japan. This style of sustainable cooking is built on Buddhist teachings about compassion for all livin…

Artisans from the Echizen region of central Fukui have a policy to never refuse a job, no matter how difficult it might sound at first. New challenges often involve working across industries, and this region is the perfect place for collaboration: …

Since 2014, Fukui has consistently placed no. 1 in a research institute’s biannual rankings of the happiest prefectures. Some say this is related to the natural beauty all around, and the long cultural history of Zen Buddhism—Fukui is a…

Festivals are held in many parts of Fukui throughout the year. While the Japanese word matsuri is usually translated as “festival,” its meaning also includes religious ceremonies. These events mark changes in the seasons, serve as praye…

For centuries, Fukui has been home to the temple of Eiheiji, one of the head temples of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism. This center of religion has had an influence on Fukui’s culture, and aspects of Zen have been handed down from generation…

The Mackerel Road (Saba Kaido) is a network of routes developed around the eighth century to transport mackerel and other goods from the ancient province of Wakasa to Kyoto. The province encompassed the land around Wakasa Bay, covering the present-…

Fukui is full of sights that blend human artistry and sensibilities with the surrounding natural environment. With rare natural phenomena, as well as art and unique events, there are plenty of magical moments to experience throughout the year&mdash…

Discover your adventurous side in Fukui. With snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, pristine beaches, and starry skies, it’s an ideal destination for enjoying the outdoors.

A towering 20-meter structure illuminates the summer sky, spinning in a blaze of fire and embers. Crowds shout encouragement as teams push the burning mass into motion; the participants are doused with buckets of water to protect from the searing h…

Water defines the natural environment of Fukui. Much of the prefecture lies along the Sea of Japan, and in addition to sights along the coast, there are freshwater lakes and rivers with lots of variety to explore. Whether for fun, for relaxation, o…

From snow-capped mountains and scenic coastlines to historical port towns and fossil-filled valleys, Fukui’s varied landscapes offer a wide range of captivating experiences. When planning your visit, make your accommodations as memorable as y…