Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins (Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins is an archaeological site where the remains of the castle town and mansion of the Asakura clan, who ruled Echizen (present-day Fukui Prefecture) during the Sengoku period, remain. Excavations have revealed townhouses, samurai residences, temples, gardens, roads, and more from that time, and a wealth of traces of daily life and artifacts have been unearthed. One of the great attractions of the site is that it gives a concrete insight into the urban structure of the Sengoku period and the lives of samurai and merchants. The ruins, which spread across the valley, are currently being restored and are popular as a spot where you can experience the atmosphere of the townscape of the past.

Highlights

• Restored townscape and former samurai residences: Parts of the site have been restored based on excavation surveys, and you can walk around and see the residential structures and streetscapes of the time.
• Asakura Clan Ruins Museum (Local History Museum): The museum displays explanatory panels and models of excavated artifacts and remains, allowing visitors to learn about the excavation results in a systematic manner. Visiting the museum before or after the tour will deepen your understanding.
• Restored garden and temple ruins:The cultural aspects of the time can be seen in the restored gardens and stonework of the temple ruins.
• The atmosphere at the excavation siteThe scale of the ruins that spread along the valley and the contrast with the natural scenery that changes with the seasons are also attractive.
• Walking around the surrounding nature: There are walking paths that take you through the valley scenery and historical sites, allowing you to enjoy a historical stroll.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest train station: The nearest major station is JR Fukui Station. Public transportation may not run as frequently, so please check the timetable in advance.
• Buses and taxis: There are routes from Fukui Station to the park by local bus (tourist bus or local route). The journey takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes (depending on the bus). If you take a taxi, it will take about 20 minutes.
• car: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Fukui IC on the Hokuriku Expressway (depending on road conditions). Parking is available on-site (free or paid, limited number of spaces).
• Points to notePublic transportation has limited service at certain times. It can be crowded on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons, so it's a good idea to check bus schedules and parking availability in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short visit: 1-1.5 hours (exterior of main attractions only)
• Standard tour: 2-3 hours (visit to the museum + stroll through the restored townscape)
• Thorough exploration: Half a day (with plenty of time to explore the excavation site and surrounding walking trails)

Nearby spots

• Asakura Clan Ruins Museum (located on-site) - You can take a close look at excavated items and documents.
• Eiheiji (Eiheijicho) — Historic Zen temple. Approximately 30-40 minutes by car (depending on traffic).
• Fukui City Center (Fukui Castle Ruins, Prefectural Museum, etc.) — Can be combined with a city tour.
• Stretch your legs: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (Katsuyama City) — About an hour by car. Highly recommended if you have the time.
• Maruoka Castle (Sakai City) — One of the oldest surviving castle towers in Japan. Approximately 30-40 minutes by car.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The number of visitors increases during Golden Week, summer vacation, and the autumn foliage season. Please be aware of crowded parking lots and buses on weekends.
• Clothes/shoes: Please wear comfortable shoes as there are unpaved areas, stone steps, and slopes within the ruins. Be careful of muddy and slippery terrain in rainy weather.
• Barrier-free: Some of the ruins have steps and narrow passages, making it difficult to fully view the ruins in a wheelchair. It is best to inquire with the facility in advance.
• Shooting and saving: Generally, photography is permitted, but there may be restrictions on photography at exhibits and in some facilities within the museum. Damaging excavated items or remains is strictly prohibited.
• Natural environment precautionsPlease be aware that in summer there may be heat and insects, in autumn there may be slippery conditions due to fallen leaves and rain, and in winter there may be closures or restrictions on viewing due to accumulated snow. Please wear appropriate clothing and equipment for the season.
• Manners: Ruins are important cultural assets. Please observe basic etiquette when visiting, such as taking your trash with you, not entering restricted areas, and not shouting.
• Advance confirmation: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, special exhibitions, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official website or local information for the latest information before visiting.

(Additional Information) The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins is a valuable historical site where excavations and restoration work have given us concrete insight into life during the Warring States period. After gaining some basic knowledge at the museum, you can stroll through the valley to fully appreciate the sights. To ensure a comfortable visit, please check the transportation and opening hours in advance before heading out.