Fukui might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip to Japan, but its rich cultural sites and authentic local flavor make it a surprisingly rewarding stop. What we especially love are tours that blend history with spirituality, like the From Kanazawa: Eiheiji Buddhist Temple & Fukui Castle Town — a full day with meaningful visits and beautiful views. Plus, for those interested in local food and drink, the Funaki Sake Brewery Tour offers a chance to understand Japan’s beloved sake tradition right from the brewers themselves. If you’re after a glimpse of Japan’s original castles, the Maruoka Castle Admission Ticket provides an inexpensive way to step back in time.
If you’re trying to decide which experience makes sense for your trip, read on. We’ll break down each of these top choices so you can pick what fits your schedule, budget, and curiosity.
1. From Kanazawa: Eiheiji Buddhist Temple & Fukui Castle Town
At number one, this all-day tour takes you into Fukui’s spiritual heart and showcases its historical charm. Starting from either Kanazawa or Fukui Station, the trip transports you into a quieter, more contemplative side of Japan. The tour includes visits to Eiheiji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Zen temples, where you can walk through ancient corridors and observe monks at prayer — an experience both peaceful and inspiring.
The tour also explores Fukui Castle, where you’ll see castle walls and the “rainbow” shrine, and climb Atagozaka, a small hill with panoramic views of the city. The guided visits to Zuigenji, with its relocated castle rooms, add an authentic historical touch, and the tour’s schedule allows plenty of time at each site, including 110 minutes at Eiheiji for exploring and reflection. The guide, Garrett, is praised for his knowledge of local history and Buddhist culture.
Priced at $156 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded day with transport, guided visits, and free time. The reviews are glowing, with visitors mentioning how serene Eiheiji felt, especially in winter, and how much they appreciated the insights shared by the guide. The trip is perfect for history buffs, spirituality seekers, or travelers wanting a meaningful day outside Japan’s busier attractions.
Bottom line: This tour blends culture with scenic views, making it ideal for those who want a deeper connection to Fukui’s spiritual and historical roots.
2. Fukui: Maruoka Castle Admission Ticket
At number two, the Maruoka Castle Admission Ticket offers an affordable glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Recognized as one of Japan’s 12 original castles, Maruoka stands out because its main tower has survived since the Sengoku era, providing an authentic example of early Japanese castle architecture.
This ticket isn’t a guided tour but a flexible way to explore at your own pace. The castle’s wooden interior and historic displays provide insights into castle life during Japan’s tumultuous periods. The surrounding 400 Yoshino cherry trees, which bloom beautifully in spring, add a picturesque backdrop. It’s especially popular among visitors who enjoy self-guided exploration or want a quick, budget-friendly stop that still packs a historical punch.
The castle’s reputation as the oldest original castle tower in the Hokuriku region makes it a standout, and its well-preserved structure draws history enthusiasts eager to see what remains of Japan’s castle-building craftsmanship. Since there are no elaborate guides or scheduled activities, it’s suited for travelers comfortable exploring independently.
Bottom line: For a modest price, this ticket offers a chance to see a rare historical fortress and experience Japan’s feudal architecture firsthand — perfect for budget travelers or castle lovers eager for authenticity.
3. Fukui City: Funaki Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting
Number three on our list is the Funaki Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting, a delightful experience for anyone interested in Japan’s famous sake. This family-run brewery offers a 1-hour guided tour, where you’ll learn about the sake-making process, from rice selection to fermentation. The knowledgeable brewers share their passion for quality and tradition, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how they craft their sake.
What makes this experience stand out is the generous tasting session. You’ll sample a wide range of premium sake, some of which are only available at the brewery. Visitors often appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the brewers. You’ll also learn about the brewery’s story and commitment to quality, which makes each sip more meaningful.
The price is modest, and the experience is perfect for foodies, drink enthusiasts, or curious travelers wanting a deeper appreciation of Japanese sake. Reviewers mention how much they enjoyed learning about sake’s tradition and modern techniques, and many leave with a new favorite bottle.
Bottom line: If you want to combine cultural learning with tasting some of Japan’s best sake, this tour offers a cozy, engaging experience at a reasonable price.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you’re after a full-day cultural and spiritual experience, the Eiheiji Temple and Fukui Castle tour is ideal. For a quick, budget-friendly peek into Japan’s castles, the Maruoka Castle ticket provides a simple but rewarding visit. If you’re more interested in local food and drink, the Funaki Sake Brewery Tour offers a memorable taste of Japan’s brewing craft.
Also, think about your physical activity level — the full-day tour involves some walking and climbing, while the castle visit and brewery tour are more relaxed. For those visiting Kanazawa, combining the Eiheiji and Fukui experience makes sense, but if you’re based in Fukui, the castle or sake tour might fit better into your schedule.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular spots like Eiheiji and Maruoka Castle, which can draw crowds during peak seasons.
To sum it up, Fukui offers a surprising array of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. Whether you choose a rich day exploring Zen temples and castles, or want to savor premium sake, each tour promises a genuine taste of Fukui’s charm. We recommend selecting one based on your interests and timing — and don’t forget to reserve ahead to secure your spot. Fukui’s quiet, authentic allure awaits, ready to add a meaningful chapter to your Japanese adventure.