DESTINATIONS

Kanazawa & Fukui

Located on Japan’s north coast, Kanazawa has established itself as a favourite destination for international visitors as they move through Central Japan. This relatively small city is home to some beautiful historic districts, great museums and some of Japan’s best seafood. A convenient transport hub connecting rapid train services from Osaka and Kyoto to the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, which runs to Tokyo via Nagano, Kanazawa is also a great launching point from which to explore the region.

Kanazawa is a good city to explore on-foot or by bicycle. Within easy reach of the station, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, Nagamachi Samurai District and several historic teahouse districts offer a glimpse of Japan’s feudal past. As a prosperous city during the Edo Period, the ruling Maeda clan turned their attention to artisan trades and craft, something which is reflected in Kanazawa’s many museums, galleries and continued production of traditional goods. For food lovers, the city’s Omicho Seafood Market offers some of Japan’s best seafood, caught daily the fertile waters of the Sea of Japan. Best enjoyed during the day – when the largest number of vendors and stalls are open – Omicho should not be missed.

Lying to the west of Kanazawa, Fukui is tranquil region known for its open spaces, rugged coastline and some of Japan's best seafood - most famously, its Echizen crab. Often overlooked by international visitors, Fukui is emerging from the shadow of its famous neighbour as more travelers discover everything it has to offer. The region is home to one of Japan’s most important and impressive temples, Daihonzan Eihei-ji, along with the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum. One of the most impressive and engaging museums in Japan, these two destinations alone demand your attention and are reason enough to explore Fukui on your way to or from Kanazawa.