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HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum in Katsuyama City
is one of the largest paleontological museums in Japan
After undergoing a number of renovations in 2023
the permanent exhibition increased their total number of complete dinosaur skeletons on display from 44 to 50
The new annex ―nicknamed the “Little Dinosaur Egg” for its shape― houses a storage room full of archeological artifacts you can see from outside
a special exhibition hall that doubles as an immersive three-screen theater
an art installation showcasing the five dinosaur (and one bird) species discovered in Fukui
One of the highlights is the Field Station―the largest dinosaur quarry in Japan―where visitors can look for actual fossils during a three-hour experience/tour
a brand new facility within the museum now also offers hands-on experiences for those obsessed with dinosaurs
Don’t forget to say hi to the 7-meter T-rex robot that greets visitors near the entrance
a fan favorite since this world-class museum opened in 2000
but on less crowded days tickets may be available for sale at the museum
take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (about 3 hours)
then take the Shirasagi or Thunderbird Limited Express train to Fukui Station (about 45 minutes)
Switch to the Echizen Railway Eiheiji Katsuyama Line
you can either take a taxi (about 10 minutes) or the community bus line to the museum
Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum
Hokuriku Shinetsu Region | JNTO Official Website
Fukui Prefecture | JNTO Official Website
Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages
The city of Fukui was devastated by air raids in the closing days of World War II and
the cherry trees of Asuwayama Park were planted in 1952 to coincide with an exposition held to promote Fukui’s reconstruction
An additional 1,400 trees were planted in 1989 to commemorate the city’s centennial
the park boasts some 3,500 somei yoshino and other cherry trees
Sakura 100: Japan’s Best Blossoms
Banner photo © Fukui Prefectural Tourism Federation.)
Find the essence of Fukui Prefecture In a free live streaming event via Zoom Webinar on March 27
You will be accompanied by navigators Naomi Mano and Arielle Busetto on the ground
viewers will be introduced to the essence of Fukui Prefecture.
The first twenty will receive a free set of lazer-cut origami Echizen Washi to make their own washi paper crane
might be yearning for the thrill of visiting somewhere new
discovering the unexpected and tasting novel cuisine
There is only so much you can gain from glossy TV-style travel series
Understanding that people want to travel despite the continuing pandemic-related restrictions
the Fukui Prefecture governmentーlocated in the Chubu region of Japanーis trying something different
By teaming up with local craftsmen and experts in local cuisine
the local government is set to bring you into places never before opened to the global audience
Navigators Naomi Mano and Arielle Busetto on the ground will introduce you to each of the participating craftsmen, cultural cuisine experts as you tour together. You can book your place in the webinar here
it’s an area that ticks a lot of boxes for those interested in Japan
it’s a city that historically has had deep links with cities at the center of Japanese culture
It’s also a region flourishing with traditional Japanese crafts and food delicacies
Virtual travelers will visit four areas: the city of Sabae
Mano and Busetto will introduce you to individual local artisans
and even delve into the spiritual heart of one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan
it becomes quickly apparent that Fukui is the place where cultural traditions
and links to history continue to flourish to this day
What is virtual travel in this case anyway
it’s a live streaming video event which involves reacting and looking back at a trip into the region
By inviting virtual participants along to experience the navigators’ travel on the ground
listening to explanations on the go and fresh reactions afterward
it aims to bring viewers a real feel of what it’s like to visit the heart of Fukui Prefecture
and help you discover great reasons to come back again in the future
Sabae has traditional lacquerware and swordmaking
Echizen-shi is known as the birthplace of Washi paper
Echizen-cho is a distinct part of the town highly regarded for its potteryーand the delicious crab caught off its coast
Eiheiji is home to one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples
it also becomes clear that the local craftsmen have much to teach us about how to make products in a sustainable way
They have been making products ethically for tens of years
providing lessons key to our current understanding of the world
So join us in thinking positively and travel with us by participating in this virtual event
Meet artisans and visit places that will inspire you and prepare you for the next time you are in Japan
Where: Zoom Webinar, the booking page can be found here
Hosts: Tokyo-based Naomi Mano and Arielle Busetto
Naomi Mano has decades of experience as a bridge for people visiting Japan for business
She is Chairman of the Japan MICE Association
as well as CEO and founder of the successful company LUXURIQUE
which plans luxury travel experiences for customers in Japan
Arielle Busetto is a journalist for the publication JAPAN Forward
she is experiencing Fukui Prefecture for the first time
while searching for those gems that are surprising and appealing to a foreign audience
Other: The first 20 applicants will be rewarded with a set of Echizen Washi origami paper
(Deadline to apply is four days before event)
More information on the event can be found here
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Leaf KYOTO Fukui Sightseeing Course on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line: Enjoy Fukui's Famous Sake and Local Products
Fukui Prefecture has become much more accessible with the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line on March 16
Now is the perfect time to visit the long-established sake breweries and scenic spots scattered throughout the prefecture
There are also a variety of exquisite souvenirs to take home from the bounty of the Sea of Japan
and Hokuriku cuisine while soaking up the charm of local sake
The town was the site of a castle town built by the Asakura clan
a feudal lord in the Warring States period
and the almost completely excavated townscape retains the appearance of its days
The site is lined with restored samurai residences and other buildings
and is triple-designated as a Special Historic Site
and Important Cultural Property by the national government
designated as a special place of scenic beauty
and visitors can enjoy the seasonal changes in the abundant nature
We recommend that you also visit the Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins Museum
to experience the Asakura Clan's prosperous days and the lifestyle of the town
●Eiheiji Temple/Peiheiji (ancient Chinese political party)
Photo courtesy of Daihonzan Eiheiji Temple
Eiheiji Temple is the head temple of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism
Eiheiji was founded by Zen master Dogen as a place for ordained Zen monks to undergo rigorous daily ascetic training
Surrounded by old cedars and filled with a dignified atmosphere
the temple grounds are dotted with more than 70 halls and towers
Zazen meditation and overnight lodging are available (reservations are required at least two weeks in advance)
The ceiling paintings in the 156-tatami-mat hall are spectacular
and the moon painted by 144 famous Japanese painters
The Funaki Sake Brewery produces a rich variety of flavors
including "Kitanosho," "Tominari-ki," and "Wakarika
Located in the eastern part of Fukui Prefecture
the brewery is surrounded by a countryside rich in nature
The brewery has been dedicated to sake brewing for generations
and is particular about the quality of its sake
making cute sake cups for many people to enjoy and offering sake brewery tours
[A tour of the Funaki Sake Brewery is an enriching experience that will help you enjoy sake even more
Even beginners can feel at ease as the tour is carefully arranged to match the visitor's level of knowledge
In order to give visitors a concrete image of sake brewing
the actual equipment and machinery in the brewery are shown to them so that they can experience the real production site
After a light-hearted explanation with demonstrations
you may be guided to the tasting space inside the brewery instead of the storefront
The wooden lid on the storage tank is used as a table
Tasting while enjoying the atmosphere of the brewery (300 yen per cup) will deepen your taste even more
Tourists will be happy to know that the brewery is easily accessible by bus or cab from Fukui Station
●Mikawa Sake Brewery/Searching for a Warehouse
Mikawa Sake Brewery stands beside a large field and is run by the family of the brewery's toji (master brewer) and several brewers
The brewery uses traditional brewing tools and methods to produce a unique sake with a rich acidity
The castle was built by Nagachika Kanamori
which are made of natural stone and almost completely unworked
are registered as a cultural asset of the prefecture
and give the impression of the castle's appearance as it was defended during the Warring States Period
The museum's exhibits were renovated in conjunction with the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train line
the castle is called "Castle in the Sky" because it appears to be floating in a sea of clouds
The castle has been selected as one of the 100 most famous castles in Japan
you may be able to capture a fantastic photo
●Samurai Residence Former Tamura Family/buke/yasumi/yasumi-tamurage
[The former Tamura family samurai residence is a demolished and reconstructed house of the Tamura Matazaemon family
and is designated as a cultural property by the city
The stately house and garden evoke the elegance of the castle town of the Kaga domain
Another highlight is the installation of a shelf of windmills for a limited time only
A total of approximately 2,000 windmills are lined up from the approach to the house
Enjoy the cool sound of the spinning windmills
located at the foot of the Hakusan mountain range and surrounded by the clear waters of Ono
offers tours that allow visitors to experience the traditions of one of Fukui Prefecture's oldest sake breweries
Passing through the curtain flanked by a large sign that reads
"Winner of the Gold Prize at the National New Sake Competition," one is greeted by a line of sake bottles
The walls on either side of the entrance to the brewery are covered with certificates
We are proud of the fact that we do not compromise on quality
We pride ourselves on not compromising quality
even if we don't make a profit," says the brewery's owner
we were given a fast-paced lecture on the sake brewing process and history
and were able to see documents from the brewery's 400-plus year history
The fun part of the tasting (300 yen per cup) is to enjoy a sumptuous selection of 10 different kinds of sake
Fukui Prefecture boasts a 90% share of the domestic production of eyeglass frames
and offers visitors the opportunity to see
3,000+ eyeglass frames on display are worth a visit
This hands-on facility allows visitors to learn about and taste the mysteries of the sea
the top brand of snow crab landed at Fukui Prefecture's fishing ports
There are many contents for both children and adults to enjoy
including a sea walkway with a tunnel tank
a Big Love Theater where you can learn about Echizen crabs on a large screen
full of crabs and plenty of opportunities to take interesting pictures
Kitazen Shoten continues to brew sake at Imajojuku on the Hokuriku Highway
surrounded by seasonal nature and buildings with a long history dating back to the Edo period
which has been a key transportation hub since the Heian period (794-1192)
the area has become popular among tourists for its romantic scenery
at the order of Nobunaga Oda during the Warring States Period
The castle tower has remained from the Edo period and is the only one of its kind in Hokuriku
and is selected as one of the 12 surviving castle towers
also known as the "backwaters of Kansai," is located in the northernmost part of Fukui Prefecture and is easily accessible from Fukui Prefecture's sightseeing spots and Kanazawa
It is also the best hot spring resort in the prefecture
with a forest of historic and famous ryokan
and was loved by writers and celebrities for its famous inns and beautiful scenery
There is also a Yukemuri Yokocho (hot spring alley) with about 10 food stalls and one of the largest ashiyu (footbath) facilities in Hokuriku
and since each inn manages its own hot springs
the quality and efficacy of the hot springs vary from inn to inn
It is a hot spring resort that can be enjoyed at any time of the year
Surrounded by the Hakusan mountain range and the Takeda River
this long-established sake brewery has a 270-year history
"Tomikukoma," is one of the most famous sake brands in Fukui
and tours of the brewery are offered to show visitors how it came to be
Fukui is a treasure trove of culinary delights where the bounty of the Sea of Japan is savored with Hokuriku's unique culture
we introduce the best souvenirs available around Tsuruga Station
the Shinkansen arrival and departure point
●[Yaki Saba Sushi (Grilled Mackerel Sushi)/ Yasubei Foods
Grilled mackerel seasoned with homemade soy sauce sauce and rice rice made from Fukui rice
rolled in Tsuruga's famous oboro konbu (kelp)
The grilled mackerel boasts a thick and juicy texture
Enjoy the taste of Fukui that is packed inside
●[Kelp with a white kelp/Tsuruga Ekimae OTA
Oboro kelp is made by hand-polishing only the core of the kelp
The best of these is the thick white oboro kelp
15g sachets are also available as souvenirs
making it easy to share the taste of Fukui with others
Rakugan is a traditional Tsuruga confectionery made from soybeans
the simple taste is different from that of regular rakugan made with sugar and has a soybean flour-like flavor that is loved by men and women of all ages
The Otafuku of the bean rakugan is said to symbolize Empress Jingu of the Kibi Jingu Shrine
and the shape of the Otafuku is cute and photogenic
Fukui Prefecture was full of austere spots and experiences that only adults can enjoy
Take advantage of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension
which now offers better access from Kyoto and Shiga
and take a trip to heal yourself away from the hustle and bustle of the city
From spiky triceratops and terrifying T-rexes through to flying pterodactyls and herbivore brachiosauruses
dinosaurs have captured the imaginations of the young and young at heart over the generations
If you marvel at all things dinosaurs (or someone in your family does!)
this guide covers four destinations to add to your Japan travel bucket list
If you're visiting Japan or living in Japan with dino-loving kiddies in tow
there are a number of fun dinosaur-themed playgrounds across the country
One of them is at Odaka Ryokuchi Park in Aichi Prefecture
which boasts its very own dinosaur section
There are a couple of great dinosaur slides where the slide portion is the dinosaur's tail
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glossy depths; your fingertips caress its delightfully smooth finish
is home to the 1,500-year-old artistic tradition of Echizen lacquer
you can watch master artisans at work and even take part in the process yourself
There are three hands-on workshops to choose from: e-tsuke
carving a design with a knife; and fuku-urushi
Please note that workshops must be booked at least two days in advance
Once you’ve completed your personal masterpiece
head over to the gallery and see magnificent festival floats
handmade by local craftsmen using techniques passed down from generation to generation
take the Thunderbird limited express train to Sabae Station (about one hour 42 minutes)
then take the Tsutsuji Bus to the Urushi no Kaikan stop (about 28 minutes)
https://enjoy.pref.fukui.lg.jp/en/spot/spot-105/
which combine traditional fire-making forging techniques with modern design
have been highly acclaimed and are inundated with orders from famous chefs in Japan and abroad
the entire production area had declined to such an extent that its current prosperity was unimaginable
The man behind this dramatic revival is Katsuyasu Kamo of Kamo Cutlery
Kamo Cutlery is located in the Takefu Knife Village
equilateral triangular building is impressive and does not evoke the image of “cutlery
Takefu Knife Village is a joint workshop of 13 cutlery companies that produce Echizen hammered blades
and in addition to offering the rare experience of forging hammered blades
it also has a workshop tour and a direct sales shop for kitchen knives and knives
who made a major contribution to the establishment of Takefu Knife Village
was certified as a traditional craftsman in 2008 and has served as the first chairman of the Takefu Knife Village Cooperative since the establishment of the facility
Kamo’s history as a craftsman is also the history of traditional crafts
from their decline to their revival to their current prosperity
dropped out of a local high school to help his father
and became a hammered knife craftsman in 1956
he mastered the “hi-zukuri forging two-ply spreading” technique
in which two steel blades are layered and stretched thin
The blade of the vegetable knife finished with this technique is thin
The blade is so thin that it is extremely sharp
which can be used not only for cutting vegetables but also meat and fish
Sales of vegetable cutting knives had been declining with the changing times
but the sharpness of the double-edged blade was still highly regarded
was wondering if he could make a new kitchen knife using this technology
A fellow skier who ran a vegetable farm in Nagano Prefecture introduced him to an agricultural cooperative in the prefecture
suggesting that he could propose a vegetable knife to a place that would meet the demand for such knives
we learned that growers cut several thousand plants of cabbage and other vegetables a day
and that it is not unusual for them to get kenshoitis
Realizing that there might be a demand for a knife that could be used differently from the conventional way
but which would make harvesting vegetables easier
Kamo worked with vegetable farmers to develop one
they completed the “Vegetable Harvesting Knife
The vegetable harvesting knife has a blade all the way to the tip
so that the tip of the blade can cut the core of cabbage or Chinese cabbage by pressing lightly on it
The blade is slightly warped to prevent damage to the leaves when harvesting
Farmers who have used the machine have highly praised it
saying that it has reduced the burden of harvesting and improved the quality of the vegetables they ship
after hearing that farmers sometimes lose sight of their knives in the field while farming or injure themselves by stepping on them unexpectedly
Kamo devised the red handle so that the knife would stand out
the distinctive red handle came to be known as “Kamo-red,” and became synonymous with Kamo-san’s harvesting knives
Convinced that he could create knives that were truly needed only by working directly with farmers
Kamo went on to visit vegetable-growing regions such as Chiba
In addition to knives specially designed for harvesting broccoli
which at the time was being cultivated by an increasing number of farmers
he also developed a left-handed harvesting knife and a lightweight model that is easy for women to use
which he sold to agricultural cooperatives throughout the country
He regularly visited the users of his knives and performed maintenance such as resharpening and repairing handles
Word of Kamo’s approach to producers and the sharpness of his Echizen Uchihamono knives spread by word of mouth
and his vegetable harvesting knives are now used in more than 30 locations throughout Japan
Kamo’s vegetable harvesting knives are lined up by vegetable
each with a different shape and blade length
These are available in more than 50 varieties
Kamo’s vegetable harvesting knives are also linked to the origin of Echizen Uchihamono
a Kyoto swordsmith named “Chiyotsuru Kuniyasu” moved to Echizen in search of a suitable place to make swords
which he called “Echizen sickles,” and this is believed to be the origin of the name
Echizen became a major producer of agricultural cutlery
and these products spread in the form of “peddling” throughout the country
The peddlers were lacquer shovel craftsmen who traveled around the country in search of lacquer for Echizen lacquerware
a traditional craft also known in Fukui Prefecture
They sold their cutlery to farmers wherever they went and brought back orders for sickles from all over the country
and Echizen sickles are said to have been the nation’s largest producer from the middle of the Edo period until the Meiji period
during the period of high economic growth in the Showa era (1926-1989)
the mechanization of agriculture and forestry advanced
and the demand for sickles continued to decline
sickle producers were forced out of business one after another
which are more diverse in variety and shape than rice and are often harvested on slopes or in confined spaces
the harvesting of vegetables such as Chinese cabbage
and broccoli is still largely unmechanized and done mainly by hand
Kamo found a way for Echizen Uchihamono to survive in knives specially designed for harvesting vegetables
and like the lacquer shovel craftsmen of the past
he personally went around the country visiting farmers to promote the harvesting knives
which had become known to farmers nationwide through the sickle
was once again recognized through vegetable harvesting knives
Kamo revived a traditional craft that had been in decline for some time as vegetable harvesting knives
but when he looked at the situation in the region as a whole
and the region was facing severe price competition from inexpensive cutlery products
Kamo and 10 other successors of cutlery companies in the region
who felt a sense of crisis about the future of Echizen hammered cutlery
got together and launched a study group to consider these issues
The group began its activities with a focus on branding Echizen hammered blades to break away from price competition
things started to move quickly when the Industrial Research Institute
a world-renowned designer in the field of product and industrial design who hailed from Fukui Prefecture
Kawasaki about the activities being promoted by the association and succeeded in gaining his approval
Kawasaki proposed the development of new products from a designer’s point of view
incorporating modern design concepts while preserving the basics of traditional Echizen hammered blades
Kamo and his team were puzzled by the shape of the knife
The most important reason was that they wondered if it was possible to reproduce the shape by handwork of craftsmen
it could be done by press working,” said Kamo
the value of Echizen Uchihamono lies in creating the form using the traditional fire forging technique.” While struggling with this question
including an all-purpose all-stainless steel kitchen knife with an integrated blade and handle
This was the beginning of an explosive hit
the company finally completed a kitchen knife with a novel design that would be the future of Echizen Uchihamono
He named the brand “Takefu Knife” and held an exhibition at a gallery in Tokyo
the company vigorously held exhibitions throughout Japan
including a very successful one in New York in 1986
This gave the members of the study group the confidence that “anything can be accomplished if we work together,” and gradually “the branding of kitchen knives got on track
The next step was to create a place that would attract people from outside of Echizen to Echizen Uchihamono
Kamo and his colleagues invested 30 million yen per person to complete the “Takefu Knife Village,” a joint workshop
This created the advantages of a workshop that was widely accessible and craftspeople could share expensive processing machines
the most significant impact was that discussions among everyone expanded their knowledge and led to the development of new products
but we were able to make the decision because we absolutely needed a base to promote Echizen Uchihamono to the world
I think the creation of the knife village led to the revival of the production area.”
Echizen Uchihamono knives began to receive orders from all over the world
as their sharpness and design quality were highly acclaimed by famous chefs overseas
70-80% of the knives produced by Takefu Knife Village are destined for overseas markets
now has more than 40 craftsmen honing their skills
the production area is sailing smoothly,” says Mr
and the number of expensive knives is increasing
we want to protect the Echizen Uchihamono brand by not cutting corners and by respecting the basics of proper craftsmanship,” says Mr
and not only people from within the prefecture but also young people from outside the prefecture are training hard
making the former environment of working under bare light bulbs seem a lie
who have continued to take on the challenge of reviving a traditional craft
will be passed on to the younger generation
and a new page will be carved in the history of Echizen hammered blades
309-341-7337
communications@knox.edu
Knox College has released the Dean's List of distinguished students for the 2013 Spring Term
a student must have earned at least 2.5 credits in the term
with a grade point average of 3.6 or better (on a 4.0 scale)
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Knox College prohibits sex discrimination and discrimination in violation of federal or state law in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions regarding sex discrimination or other prohibited discrimination to the Director of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance. The notice of non-discrimination is located at www.knox.edu/notice-of-non-discrimination
https://www.knox.edu/news/deans-list-spring-term-2013
HOUYHNHNM's and FreshService have created the "EDITORS JACKET & EDITORS TROUSERS" uniforms for editors
Released in January this yearIt has been seven months since the first issue of the book
and in response to requests from our readers
we will be re-releasing the book this weekend
In addition to the navy color that was popular last time
The editorial team has put a lot of thought into this set-up
and we would like to introduce some of the key points of this new color
Some days I write manuscripts in my office
while other days I spend half a day or more in the studio shooting things
and other times I go on location with an exhausted body
Editing is a job that brings us into contact with a wide variety of people
and events as we visit various places on a daily basis
The "EDITORS JACKET" and "EDITORS TROUSERS" are daily wear that accompanies such editors in their daily lives
That is what the "EDITORS JACKET" and the "EDITORS TROUSERS" are
which was the most voted for in a survey we conducted on Instagram
Both colors are highly versatile and basic
so this is recommended for not only slender women
but also for men who have had trouble fitting into conventional sizing
SOLOTEX®" is an excellent material that boasts excellent stretch
The "SOLOTEX®" material is densely woven and then dobbed to create a cotton-like texture that is different from conventional techwear
EDITORS JACKET ¥41,800
with a big silhouette that can be worn with everything from lightweight shirts to thick knits
The sleeves can be adjusted with snap buttons
allowing you to freely arrange the silhouette
And the most important point of this collaboration is this detail
Inside is a multi-functional pocket for the editor's essentials
The left side is designed to hold notepads and pens
while the right side is designed to hold wireless earphones
The right side is designed for desk work where you can stash wireless earphones
so it is up to the user to decide what to store in them
EDITORS TROUSERS ¥25,300
The pants have an elastic waistband and spindles at the hems
A hidden pocket on the right pocket is provided for storing coins or keys
The gently tapered silhouette is neither too thin nor too thick
and can be worn with leather shoes for a classy look
Multi-use daily wear that can be worn for any occasion and in any style. The EDITORS JACKET and EDITORS TROUSERS will be available on Saturday, August 25, starting at 12:00 pm,HOUYHNHNM's ECPre-release at
August 26 at Fresh Service Head Quarters and other limited stores
HOUYHNHNM's and Fresh Service have collaborated on a long-awaited new line of products
Keeping the concept of "uniforms for editors," we have created "UTILITY SHOOTING COAT" and "SHOOTING CARGO PANTS," both of which are useful on location
The bold silhouette is typical of Fresh Service
the pockets are large enough to hold all the essentials for a shoot
and the warmth is enough to easily survive outdoor activities in the middle of winter...
To get a closer look at the true value of this product
we caught up with one of the crew members on location for a photo shoot
In order to faithfully reproduce the details of military wear
the pocket fabric is in a khaki color scheme with different tones
SHOOTING CARGO PANTS ¥30,800 eachSize range: S
A moderate magnitude 4.1 earthquake occurred in the Sea of Japan 233 km (145 mi) from Japan in the afternoon of Friday
The quake had a great depth of 440 km (273 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)
A light magnitude 3.3 earthquake hit 13.3 km (8 mi) away from Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
The quake had a very shallow depth of 11.3 km (7 mi) and was felt by many near the epicenter
A light magnitude 2.6 earthquake hit 0.8 km (0.5 mi) away from Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
The quake had a very shallow depth of 12.3 km (8 mi) and was felt widely in the area
A strong magnitude 5.7 earthquake hit 52 km (32 mi) away from Nanao, Ishikawa-ken, Japan
The quake had a very shallow depth of 9 km (5.6 mi) and was felt over a large region
The shallow depth of the quake caused it to be felt more strongly near the epicenter than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would
A light magnitude 3.2 earthquake hit 26 km (16 mi) away from Nanao, Ishikawa-ken, Japan
The quake had a very shallow depth of 7.5 km (4.7 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)
Kyoto has a high level of seismic activity
Based on data from the past 55 years and our earthquake archive back to 1900
there are about 1,500 quakes on average per year in or near Kyoto City
Kyoto has had at least 10 quakes above magnitude 6 since 1900
which suggests that larger earthquakes of this size occur infrequently
probably on average approximately every 10 to 15 years
The quake had a very shallow depth of 6 km (3.7 mi) and was too small to be felt by people
Kyoto has had 2 quakes of magnitude 2.0 or above
There were also 16 quakes below magnitude 2.0 which people don't normally feel
The quake had a very shallow depth of 18.8 km (12 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)
Fukui Travel Guide: What to Do in Fukui Now
Fukui Prefecture – a hidden gem on Japan’s west coast that’s often overshadowed by the bustling metropolis of Tokyo and the temples of Kyoto
But don’t let that fool you – this place is nothing short of magical
Fukui offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else
marvel at the unique landscape while enjoying an onsen stay
or have fun at the country’s largest dinosaur museum
access to Fukui Prefecture will be even easier as the Hokuriku Shinkansen will be extended until Fukui from March 2024
So here is a selection of the best things to do in Fukui so you can embark on an adventure through this enchanting prefecture and discover the beauty of Japan off the beaten path
With this Chubu Region Bucket List, let’s also check out the surrounding tourist attractions: Best Things to Do in Chubu
are one of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring natural wonders in the region
which were carved around 12-13 million years ago by the powerful waves of the Sea of Japan
The sheer stone cliffs rise up to 30 meters above the Sea of Japan and stretch about one kilometer along the shoreline
You can take a leisurely stroll along the cliffs and take in the breathtaking views
or take a thrilling boat ride to see the cliffs from a different perspective
is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan
Founded in 1244 by the famous Zen master Dogen
Eiheiji Temple is known for its austere beauty and tranquil surroundings
where you can explore the temple’s various buildings and gardens
Eiheiji Temple also offers visitors the opportunity to experience the daily life of the temple’s monks through their one-night stay program
providing a unique and immersive cultural experience
Lake Kuzuryu (九頭竜湖) is a serene destination that offers spectacular views all year round
The lake was created by the Kuzuryu Dam in 1968 and boasts a length of several kilometers and a width of up to 355 meters
One of the best places to admire the beauty of the surroundings is from the 266-meter-long Hakogase Bridge
The lake is famous for its cherry blossom trees
creating a beautiful pink hue on the usually emerald-green waters
the lake transforms into a canvas of reds and oranges as the maple trees change colors
and their reflections shimmer on the calm surface of the water
Igarashi Seishi (五十嵐製紙) has been producing Echizen washi
Their paper has been used in various facilities and stores and has gained popularity amongst celebrated artists who seek customized paper
From machine-made and handmade fusuma paper to wallpaper and accessories with unique patterns and colors
This paper has a distinct texture unlike any other regular paper or Japanese washi
This idea came from the founder’s son
who turned an elementary school project into reality after five years of hard work
Visiting their workshop and seeing for yourself the skillful work of these artisans
to be blown away by the innovation of a traditional Japanese paper manufacturer
Yanase Ryozo Seishijo (栁瀨良三製紙所)
have opened their workshop to visitors so they can learn about and experience the traditional methods and techniques employed in making this handmade paper
The production process at Yanase Ryozo Seishijo reflects the hard-working qualities of the company’s founder
and his paper is highly valued for being gracefully flexible while still keeping a rich texture
suitable for artistic and decorative papers as well as beautiful traditional confectionery packaging
papermakers at Ryozo have created a rare kind of washi called kanagata rakusui-shi
which involves pressing a pattern onto a wet sheet of paper using a metal mold and pouring water over the mold to transfer the pattern onto the paper
Okamoto Otaki Shrine (岡太神社・大瀧神社) is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to the goddess of paper
a woman taught the townspeople the art of papermaking employing natural resources
She’s been known ever since as Kawakami Gozen
The Okamoto-Otaki Shrine can be found in two locations – one at the base and the other towards the mountain’s summit
Its mention in the Engishiki – a book of laws and customs – written in 927 is proof of its significance
the shrine was designated an Important Cultural Property for its history and unique architecture
is a great example of Japanese castle architecture
as Maruoka Castle is one of the very few remaining in Japan with their original main keep from the Edo Period. Built in 1576
the castle’s distinctive black walls and three-tiered tower are a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the castle’s builders
Visitors can explore the castle’s various rooms and exhibits
which features artifacts and displays that showcase the history of Maruoka Castle and its surrounding area
Maruoka Castle is also known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees
which bloom in the spring and attract visitors from all over Japan
Fukui could be very well considered Japan’s dinosaur capital
as about 80% of dinosaur fossil discoveries have been made in this region
that Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (福井県立恐竜博物館)
is one of the largest and most impressive dinosaur museums in the world
With over 40,000 square meters of exhibit space
the museum features a wide variety of dinosaur fossils
including some of the most impressive complete dinosaur skeletons
The complex also includes one of the leading dinosaur research sites in Asia
and visitors can also participate in a tour of a nearby excavation site
about 30 minutes by bus from the museum.
Mikata Five Lakes (三方五湖)
located in the Wakasa Bay Quasi-National Park
is a group of five interconnected lakes (Kugushi
and Hiruga) that offer some of the most beautiful and picturesque scenery in Japan
A variety of depths and water types allow for an incredible landscape diversity
even different colors can be spotted across the five lakes
earning the nickname among locals of the “Five-Color Lakes”. For the best views of the Five Lakes
follow the Rainbow Line toll road until the Mountain Peak Park
which can also be reachable by lift and cable car
Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins (一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡)
is a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past
The ruins are the site of a former castle town that flourished during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) until it was destroyed by Oda Nobunaga in 1573
so this location is a great opportunity to have an immersive cultural experience about what daily life was like for the people who lived in the castle town during that period
a new museum opened in the area for visitors to learn more about the history of Ichijodani and the Asakura Clan.
Shibamasa World (芝政ワールド) is an amusement park that is a very popular leisure destination located on the northern coast of Fukui in Japan
The park is spread over 150,000 square meters filled with exciting attractions
The park offers a range of amusement park rides
a giant pool with one of the world’s largest water slides
Shibamasa World’s Kids Paradise offers a kid-friendly climbing wall
and a collection of creative toys from around the world
including fireworks shows and character shows
Sea of Japan Fish Market or Nihonkai Sakana Machi (日本海さかな街)
is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers
this is the largest fish market that can be found along the coast of the Sea of Japan
The market features a wide variety of freshly caught fish and seafood across its more than 50 shops
where visitors can enjoy all sorts of delicacies and special dishes at the market’s various restaurants and food stalls
besides buying fresh seafood to their heart’s content
Awara Onsen (あわら温泉)
is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in central Japan since its foundation over 130 years ago
The town features a range of hot spring facilities
including traditional indoor and outdoor baths
mineral-rich waters and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside
Awara Onsen is also known for its delicious local cuisine
with a range of restaurants and food stalls serving up Echizen regional specialties like crab and seafood
Even if you do not stay the night at one of its resorts
Awara Onsen is a great option for a day trip just to relax and recharge your batteries
It’s not that I want to give in to the cliche but particularly for first-time visitors
it’s only appropriate to check what the prefecture is most famous for in the first place
Forget you’re an adult the moment you enter the prefectural museum and give in to the sense of wonder
If the great majestic creatures from the past are not really your thing
then your next best bet is to engage in regional washi paper crafts with a 3×1 offer: Igarashi Seishi
and Okamoto Otaki Shrine are quite close to one another
Fukui may not be the most popular tourist destination in Japan
From exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying the natural scenery and thrilling amusement parks
pack your bags and head to Fukui for an unforgettable adventure
▽Here are the attractions you should experience across Japan with this Japan Bucket List!▽
▽Check out more things to do in Chubu Region!▽
▶︎Best Things to Do in Toyama
▶︎Best Things to Do in Ishikawa
▶︎Best Things to Do in Fukui
▶︎Best Things to Do in Niigata
▶︎Best Things to Do in Yamanashi
▶︎Best Things to Do in Nagano
▶︎Best Things to Do in Gifu
▶︎Best Things to Do in Shizuoka
▶︎Best Things to Do in Aichi
For more information about traveling in Japan
I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo
Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan
I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring