History of the Nightlife Districts
The neighborhoods of Katamachi and Hamamachi form the heart of Fukui's nightlife, with everything from jazz clubs and magic bars to gastropubs and LGBT-friendly establishments. Katamachi is the shortened version of its Edo-period (1603–1867) name, Katawaramachi (lit. one-sided town), so named because it bordered the outer moat of Fukui Castle. In the Meiji period (1868–1912), however, the moat was filled, and the area developed into a center for the textile industry. As transportation infrastructure improved in the early twentieth century, textile production shifted to the outskirts, making way for banks and businesses. The increased foot traffic spurred the growth of recreational spots such as bars and cinemas.
To the south of Katamachi, the Hamamachi neighborhood flourished as a geisha district from the Edo period. As the local textile industry boomed in the Meiji period, entrepreneurs opened high-end restaurants along the Asuwa River, reinforcing the area's reputation for luxury entertainment.
Geisha culture spread to Fukui from Kyoto along the network of trade routes known as the Mackerel Road (Saba Kaido), which had connected the region to the imperial capital since the eighth century. These routes facilitated the trade of seafood and other commodities, as well as the exchange of cultural practices and ideas. As a result, authentic geisha experiences can be found throughout Fukui. In the city of Obama, next to Wakasa Bay, Harima is a tea shop operated by three generations of geisha. In Awara Onsen, a hot spring town north of the city of Fukui, visitors can try geisha makeovers, or take tea and play traditional games with geisha.
Hamamachi Hibi is a Japanese dining and performance space in the Hamamachi neighborhood. Their lineup of “Night Culture Experience” dinner shows introduces diners to Fukui’s regional specialties and culture. The experience begins with a seasonal bento dinner paired with sakes from Fukui and a soba-making demonstration (with tasting), followed by traditional performances. The program is available in Japanese, English, and Spanish (French and Chinese are available with advance notice). Premium packages include geisha-guided strolls through Hamamachi and seasonal moon-viewing experiences.
The venue occupies the renovated annex of a restaurant from the Edo period. It retains key architectural elements such as lattice windows and exposed wooden beams, preserving its historical charm. There is a bar area with counter seating next to a lounge-like stage space in the back. The cozy layout creates an intimate yet immersive atmosphere, making performances feel personal and relaxed. Hamamachi Hibi also has private dining rooms and karaoke rooms.
*Available from March 1, 2025, until March 31, 2026
Depending on the day, performances can feature geisha dances, shamisen demonstrations, or taiko drumming, all enhanced by cutting-edge technology. Atmospheric lighting, projection mapping, and immersive sound design give a contemporary boost to these classic arts, creating a unique fusion of the traditional and contemporary. Large-scale digital projections of Fukui’s landscapes and other visuals form dynamic backdrops, adding depth and context to each performance.
Performers double as hosts, welcoming questions from guests between acts. They offer deeper insight into the art forms and their cultural significance, explaining the instruments, music, and choreography. The performers also give basic lessons, inviting diners onto the stage to learn dance steps or drum rhythms and gain a hands-on appreciation of Fukui’s traditional arts.
Exploring the Streets of Hamamachi
Outside the Night Culture Experience, there is plenty more to discover. In the neighborhood are the renowned Kaikatei restaurants. The main restaurant, built in 1890, is designated a Tangible Cultural Property. Kaikatei’s other establishments are a gourmet eatery designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma and a bento delicatessen.
Enjoy a stroll along the Asuwa River, where nearly 600 sakura cherry trees line its banks for about two kilometers. Their pink blossoms are illuminated in the evenings from late March to early April. Across the street from Hamamachi Hibi is the Griffis Museum, the recreated home of an American educator who contributed to the modernization of Japan in the late nineteenth century. The building combines elements of Western and Japanese architecture, exemplified by the colonial-style balcony and porch decorated with Japanese namako wall tiling.