5 Local Experiences Not Found in Guidebooks: Fukui Edition

The Five Lakes of Mikata consist of five lakes spanning Mihama and Wakasa towns in Fukui Prefecture. The Mikata Five Lakes Rainbow Line is an 11.4-kilometer scenic drive that offers views of the mystical lakes and the magnificent Sea of Japan.

From the first parking area, transfer to a lift or cable car to reach Rainbow Line Summit Park.

The views from the five sky terraces at Rainbow Line Summit Park are absolutely breathtaking! Mihama Terrace in particular is highly recommended, as you can soak in a footbath while taking in the sight of all five lakes and the Sea of Japan simultaneously. Pick up sweets and drinks from the cafe and leisurely savor the unobstructed panoramic views. You'll be mesmerized by the stunning blue gradations created by the Sea of Japan, the lakes, the azure sky, and the surrounding nature.
The park's rose garden is another highlight, featuring approximately 600 roses of around 110 varieties that bloom in spring and autumn, creating scenery as beautiful as a painting. For those seeking social media-worthy shots, try to time your visit during bloom season!

At the Five Lakes of Mikata, you can experience Japan's first battery-powered sightseeing boat. This vessel operates using renewable energy sources such as solar power, producing no carbon dioxide or exhaust emissions while generating minimal engine noise and vibration for an exceptionally quiet ride. It's a special cruise that allows you to fully harmonize with nature, as you will be able to clearly hear birdsong and the gentle sounds of water while enjoying views of the lakes and surrounding mountains.

During the approximately 50-minute journey, an onboard guide provides clear explanations about the battery-powered boat's technology, the lakes' history, and notable sights. While commentary is primarily in Japanese, basic English explanations are also available.

The departure point, Mihama Lake Center, features a cafe serving beverages and hot dogs made with locally sourced game meat, a wooden deck with lake views, and bicycle rentals.

This cruise is an eco-friendly way to get in touch with nature, allowing you to photograph the beautiful seasonal scenery and create unforgettable travel memories.

Located in northwestern Fukui Prefecture, Echizen is a charming town rich in nature, history, and culture. It is known for Echizen crab, Echizen ware, daffodil flower fields, and its connection to the warrior Nobunaga Oda.

In Echizen's “ryokan” inn district, where numerous culinary inns line the streets, elaborate boat-shaped platters featuring whole fish presentations known as “sugata-zukuri” are often served as signature dishes. In this fishing town, you can participate in a special hands-on experience where local professionals who run fish shops, ryokan, and restaurants will teach you fish filleting techniques and the art of beautiful presentation. With basic English instruction and the opportunity to practice while observing the instructor's techniques, international travelers can participate with confidence.

The finished sashimi presentation, with its tail elegantly raised, creates such an impressive appearance that the fish seems ready to swim away at any moment. When you taste the fresh fish alongside locally grown Fukui rice, the flavors are truly extraordinary. The satisfaction of preparation, the artistry of arrangement, the pleasure of dining - this unique and luxurious culinary experience combines all three elements for an unforgettable encounter you can only find here.

Echizen pottery, developed in the town of Echizen in Fukui Prefecture, is characterized by its rustic warmth and distinctive reddish-black surface created by firing the area's unique iron-rich red clay. With approximately 850 years of history, it was designated as a Japan Heritage in 2017 as one of Six Ancient Kilns of Japan.

You can fully experience its appeal through a tour of the Echizen Pottery Village and local workshops. At the Echizen Old Kiln Museum within the village, you can explore the history of Echizen pottery through valuable exhibits, including the nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property "Fukui Prefecture Ceramic Materials." The park within the grounds also features unique artworks, including Taro Okamoto's "Face of the Moon." Experiencing the powerful presence of these works up close is truly captivating.

In the workshops, you can try creating pottery under the guidance of skilled artisans. Working with the fragrant, warm clay in your hands feels like having a conversation with nature itself. Even beginners can participate confidently and complete their own original pieces. This tour offers English guidance, allowing international travelers to experience Japanese culture more deeply.

This special, soul-soothing experience connects you with Echizen's rich history and nature. Your one-of-a-kind creation will become a treasured memory of your journey.

Facing the Sea of Japan, Sabae City in Fukui Prefecture is a manufacturing town known for its three major local industries: eyewear, textiles, and lacquerware. In particular, the city holds a 90% share of Japan's eyeglass frame market, ranking among the world's three major eyewear production centers for its fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

One brand gaining attention in Sabae is KISSO, which gives eyewear materials a stylish new interpretation, such as in their original ring-making workshop we participated in. Friendly staff explained Sabae's history and the eyewear manufacturing process in both Japanese and English before taking us on a workshop tour. Inside the workshop, vibrant panels of cellulose acetate lined the walls, shimmering in the light like the inside of a kaleidoscope.

After the tour, we moved on to the original ring-making workshop using natural acetate materials. We first selected our preferred design from an extensive range of colors and sizes.

Skilled craftspeople then carefully guided us through each step from shaping to polishing, making the process accessible even for complete beginners.

The finished ring sparkles like a gemstone while feeling remarkably light and comfortable to wear. This miniature work of art embodies Sabae's craftsmanship heritage, making it perfect as a travel memento or gift for someone special. With multilingual support available, it is also easy for international visitors to participate.
With this experience you can create your own ring that is as colorful as a bouquet of flowers!

Fukui, easily accessible from Osaka and Kyoto and now directly reachable from Tokyo by shinkansen, offers many undiscovered experiences that engage all five senses. Embark on a journey to experience Fukui to the fullest through its spectacular scenery, traditional crafts, and connections with the locals!