Freshwater Activities
Fukui’s rivers and lakes are great sources of exploration and adventure. Thrill-seekers can enjoy an adrenalin-packed day of canyoning, navigating waterfalls and rapids on the Takeda River in Sakai, central Fukui Prefecture. This three-hour adventure includes 90 minutes of climbing, rappelling, and sliding down natural rock chutes with experienced guides. Equipment is provided; all you need is a swimsuit and a spirit of adventure.
For a quieter way to enjoy the water, paddle along the Kuzuryu River, which winds through the historical temple town of Eiheiji. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or group canoeing on a quiet section of the river, surrounded by greenery.
The Five Lakes of Mikata are a cluster of five scenic lakes near the coast of Wakasa that are designated a UNESCO Ramsar Site for their importance as a wetland environment. The interconnected lakes have varying salinity levels, creating diverse habitats that support a variety of plant and animal species. Their waters are popular for SUP and kayaking tours of all experience levels. Spend a half-day paddling on calm waters while taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Marine Activities
The coastline of Fukui stretches over 300 kilometers, and its white sand beaches and clear waters are ideal for fun activities in and out of the water.
The waters off Fukui’s coast teem with marine life, making it a prime destination for scuba diving. Minami Echizen Diving Park offers programs for all skill levels. Beginners can learn the basics in a pool, while more experienced divers can venture into open waters or complete certification courses. The park also has barbecue facilities and rest areas, for a full day by the water.
Sea fishing is another popular activity, and you can join local fishermen for an excursion off the coast of Mikuni in northern Fukui. A fully equipped boat takes you to the brackish waters where the Kuzuryu River meets the Sea of Japan, offering a chance to catch various kinds of fish and create lasting memories.
For those interested in giving back, sustainable beach cleanups in Tsuruga combine conservation with creativity. After collecting litter, participants can turn marine debris, such as sea glass, into upcycled accessories by embedding their finds in clear resin to create unique keepsakes.
Forest Adventures
With over 70 percent of Fukui covered in forests, there are ample opportunities to relax and reconnect with nature.
In the town of Ikeda, visitors can join a guided walk that includes forest bathing and foraging for edible greens to cook and eat at the end of the tour. This serene experience allows you to connect with nature in a meaningful way. A highlight of the walk is “earthing,” where you connect directly with the earth’s surface, often through barefoot contact. This relaxing sensory practice is believed to have positive effects on the body.
For a more adventurous outing, Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda provides unique ways to explore the forest canopy. Try the thrilling kilometer-long zip line course or tackle treetop obstacle courses. Cap off your adventure with an unforgettable treetop picnic or an overnight stay in a tent suspended high above the ground.
Hiking and Camping
Fukui’s varied landscapes provide the perfect setting for unforgettable hiking and camping experiences, from historical byways to seaside glamping. The Mackerel Road (Saba Kaido) is a network of routes that linked the port city of Obama with the ancient capitals of Nara and Kyoto. It was used to transport fish and other commodities to the imperial court. The Harihatagoe is the shortest and most mountainous section of the routes, historically offering the quickest connection to Kyoto. Today, it’s a popular hiking trail, preserving much of the Mackerel Road’s traditional charm and attracting both avid hikers and history enthusiasts.
Camping options range from traditional setups to more comfortable glamping experiences. At Foret de Repos in the forests between the cities of Fukui and Ono, you can stay in cozy dome accommodations, traditional tents, or even a former hot-spring inn. Barbecue facilities and nearby hot-spring baths add to the appeal, making it an ideal camping getaway.
Camping also brings the chance to experience incredible stargazing. The city of Ono in eastern Fukui was certified the first Urban Night Sky Place in Asia. The dazzling Milky Way can be seen with the naked eye in parts of the city. At the Fukui Prefectural Nature Conservation Center, in Ono, visitors can enjoy an interactive stargazing experience using an 80-centimeter telescope and exploring the constellations in the on-site planetarium.
Winter Sports
When winter transforms Fukui into a snowy wonderland, parts of the prefecture become hubs for winter sports. Ski Jam Katsuyama is one of the largest snow resorts on Japan’s west coast and a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With 14 trails suited to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, the resort is known for its dependable snowfall and excellent facilities. Guests can take advantage of equipment rentals, English-language ski lessons, and convenient on-site accommodations. After an active day on the slopes, unwind in nearby open-air hot springs, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Just a 15-minute drive from the city of Katsuyama and the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, the resort is a fantastic choice for families and adventurers alike.
