Table of contents:
This post is about my trip to Fukui, a prefecture in Japan. I was lucky enough to visit some of the region's best attractions, from stunning cliffs to a fascinating dinosaur museum. Fukui also has a rich local cuisine that I enjoyed. In this report, I will share my experiences and show you why Fukui is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure.
From Tokyo to Fukui
If you've ever wondered how to best get from Tokyo to Fukui, I have some travel tips for you. There are two ways to get to Fukui - by train or by car.
By train from Tokyo to Fukui
The train is a quick and convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Fukui. The Shinkansen connection from Tokyo to Fukui takes about 4 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Japanese countryside. If you are planning to travel by train, I recommend getting off at Fukui Station, which is also a shopping mall and a tribute to the region's dinosaurs.
By car from Tokyo to Fukui
If you choose to drive from Tokyo to Fukui, you should allow about 6 to 7 hours of driving time. The route passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Japan and offers the opportunity to stop at various sights along the way. It is worth planning some extra time for the drive and enjoying the journey.
No matter which travel method you choose, I wish you a pleasant and unforgettable trip to Fukui!
Fukui Station - No Ordinary Station
Fukui Station is a huge complex that offers much more than just a train station. You will almost feel like you are in a shopping mall as you stroll through the many shops and restaurants. But that's not all - the station also has a special relationship with the famous dinosaurs of Fukui Prefecture. You'll find dinosaur statues and artwork throughout the station that will remind you of the nearby Dinosaur Museum. It's a unique experience to visit a station that is so closely connected to the history and culture of the region.
The Fukui Prefecture Dinosaur Museum
The Fukui Prefecture Dinosaur Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in dinosaurs and the history of our world. Here you will find an incredible collection of exhibits that will take you on a journey through time. You will experience firsthand how these fascinating creatures lived millions of years ago and how they eventually became extinct. It is a place full of wonders and secrets that gives you a glimpse into a world that is long gone. Visit the Fukui Prefecture Dinosaur Museum and be enchanted by the beauty and wonder!
Attention: The museum is closed until July 14, 2023!
Website of the museum (English): https://www.dinosaur.pref.fukui.jp/en/
Tōjimbō - The Cliffs on the Japan Sea
The cliffs of Tōjimbō are a truly breathtaking experience that you shouldn't miss on your trip through Fukui. These majestic rocks, which rise dramatically above the Sea of Japan, are a true wonder of nature. As you stroll along the cliffs, you will feel like you have been transported to another world. The salty air and the roar of the sea will surround you as you enjoy the beauty of this unique landscape. It's an experience you'll never forget.
Oshima - near Tōjimbō
Oshima is a small island near Tōjimbō. The island is accessible from the mainland via a bridge and offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan. I couldn't resist visiting the island and was amazed by its beauty.
If you visit Oshima, you should definitely plan a walk around the island.
Fukui Castle (福井城 - Fukui-jō)
Fukui Castle was built in 1600 by Yūki Hideyasu, the second son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The castle tower was 37 meters high, but was destroyed by fire in 1619 and was not rebuilt. After the Meiji Restoration, the buildings on the castle grounds were demolished, and the outer moats were filled in. Therefore, today you can only see the moat and the base of the keep.
Local Dishes in Fukui
Fukui has many delicious dishes that you should try. When you are in the city, you should definitely try the following specialties:
Echizen kanimeshi
This dish is a local specialty from Fukui and consists of rice served with crab meat and vegetables. It is a simple but delicious dish that is perfect for a quick lunch. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to try it during my visit to Fukui.
Sauce Katsu-don
This dish consists of crispy fried pork served with a hearty sauce and freshly cooked rice. It is a classic of Japanese cuisine and a must-try for any foodie. Sauce Katsu-don is also a local dish from Fukui.
Echizen Oroshi Soba
Soba noodles are another specialty of the region and are made from buckwheat flour. The Oroshi variety is served with grated radish and is a refreshing change from the heavier dishes. Echizen Oroshi Soba is also a local dish from Fukui.
The APA Hotel Fukui
I had the pleasure of staying at the APA Hotel Fukui and must say that I was very satisfied. While the hotel is a business hotel and therefore does not offer the most comfort, the price is unbeatable. It is located a little further from the station, but the walk is definitely worth it. Unfortunately, the hotel is currently closed temporarily (as of May 2023), but it is definitely worth a visit when it reopens.
I can definitely recommend the APA Hotel Fukui if you are looking for affordable yet comfortable accommodation. It's the perfect starting point for your explorations of Fukui and its surrounding attractions.
Conclusion of the Fukui Trip
There are many unique sights and culinary specialties to discover in Fukui. A visit to the Fukui Prefecture Dinosaur Museum and the Tōjimbō Cliffs should definitely be on your itinerary. Fukui's local cuisine offers many delicious dishes, including Echizen kanimeshi and Sauce Katsu-don. Fukui Station is an unusual station that is also a shopping mall and a tribute to the region's dinosaurs. Fukui is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure.
After the travel report, there is still so much more to discover and try in Fukui. Although I have already visited and enjoyed some of the region's best attractions and specialties, there is still much more to explore. I definitely plan another trip to Fukui in the future, even though it's a bit further from Tokyo. The unique and unforgettable adventures this prefecture has to offer are definitely worth it.
Comments