Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Echizen Coast (Echizen Town, Nyu District, Fukui Prefecture) is a scenic spot known for its varied coastline facing the Sea of Japan and its bountiful seafood. The name "Echizen" comes from the ancient Echizen Province, and the area has long prospered through fishing and coastal trade. The coastline is almost a ria, with a series of reefs, cliffs, and inlets created by igneous rock and erosion, and on sunny days the contrast between the blue sea and the rocky surface, which changes appearance from moment to moment, is captivating.
In addition, fresh seafood, including Echizen crab (snow crab) in winter, is popular, and you can enjoy seasonal flavors at fishing ports and restaurants along the coast. There are many spots suitable for driving or walking along the coastline and taking photos, and the seasonal scenery (green in spring and summer, calm seas in autumn, rough waves and daffodils in winter, etc.) is also a highlight.
Highlights
- Cape Echizen (Cape Echizen Park): This popular spot has a lighthouse and observation deck, and offers a beautiful view of the vast ocean and sunsets. There is also a place where you can see daffodils blooming in winter.
- Echizen Matsushima area: A popular photo spot with a landscape dotted with small islands and oddly shaped rocks. Echizen Matsushima Aquarium is also nearby, making it a great place for families.
- Fishing port, seafood market and restaurantsAt Echizen Town's fishing port, you can enjoy fresh Echizen crab and local fish. It is especially busy during the season.
- Driving on the Seaside LineThe view from the road along the coast is refreshing, and you can stop at observation points along the way to enjoy the scenery.
- Rocky walks and playing on the rocks (observing tide pools)At low tide, you can observe small creatures in the tide pools. However, please be sure to observe safety and good manners.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: First, Fukui Station on the JR Hokuriku Main Line is the main access point. From Fukui Station, you can take a local bus (bound for Echizen Town), a local tourist bus, or a taxi to head towards the Echizen Coast. Please note that there are limited routes and buses, so please check the timetable in advance.
- car: Approx. 30-50 minutes from central Fukui City via national and prefectural roads (depending on traffic). Approx. 1-1.5 hours from Kanazawa. There are many car parks and tourist facilities along the coast, both paid and free.
- High speed usage: Take the Hokuriku Expressway or other expressway and enter the local roads at the nearest interchange to access the coastline. Please check the latest route using your car navigation system or route search.
*There are sections where public transportation is infrequent. It is convenient to use a car or rental car, but drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short scenic walk: 1-2 hours (visiting a few major viewpoints)
- Echizen Matsushima Aquarium + Coastal Walk: Half Day (approximately 3-4 hours)
- A day trip with leisurely meals and visiting multiple spots: 1 day (sightseeing drive + meal + stroll)
- If you want to enjoy fishing, taking photos, or seasonal flavors, we recommend staying at least one night.
Nearby spots
- Echizen Matsushima Aquarium (near Echizen Matsushima)
- Tojinbo (Sakai City) - A famous cliff just a short drive away (it's a popular spot, so many people visit both places)
- Echizen Town Fishing Port and Direct Sales Center (Purchase fresh fish and seafood, eat)
- Local hot springs and lodgings (ryokans and guesthouses that serve seafood)
- Small fishing villages and observation points in the area (scattered along the drive)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Safety: Rocks and cliffs can be slippery, and waves can rise suddenly. Swimming on the coast can be dangerous in some places, so be sure to follow all no-entry and warning signs.
- Tides and weather: The area that can be visited changes with the tides. In winter, the waves become high due to rough weather on the Sea of Japan side, so it is best to only look around and not get too close.
- congestion: Restaurants and parking lots are extremely crowded during Echizen crab season (autumn to winter), the summer tourist season, and long weekends. Please be mindful of the time and season of your visit, and we recommend making reservations in advance at restaurants that offer them.
- Nature Conservation and Manners: Please refrain from collecting shellfish or other living creatures, leaving trash behind, or collecting plants. Please follow the rules to protect local fishing and the landscape.
- Restrictions on transportation and public transport: Please check the return bus schedule in advance as there may be limited bus service. Public transport is even more limited at night.
- Drones, etc.: Flying a drone in an unauthorized location may cause trouble or danger, so please check local rules and laws.
Echizen Coast is an attractive coastline that changes with each season. When visiting, please be sure to take your time to enjoy the fresh seafood and scenery, while being mindful of safety and etiquette. We recommend checking the latest information on transportation and facility opening times in advance.
