15 Best Tours & Experiences In Fukui Prefecture

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The 15 Best Tours & Experiences in Fukui Prefecture

Fukui Prefecture might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to Japan, but this quiet corner offers some of the most authentic and memorable experiences. Whether you’re interested in traditional crafts like washi paper and lacquerware, exploring historic temples like Eiheiji, or sampling local sake, Fukui provides a genuine taste of regional Japan away from the crowds. We love the Private Echizen Knife Making Factory and walking Tour, which combines craftsmanship with scenic walks, and the Experience Private Washi Paper Making for its hands-on approach.

Fukui is a treasure for those wanting to see living traditions in action. Its small-group workshops, like making lacquerware or tasting sake, often result in personal stories and keepsake souvenirs that remind you of Japan’s meticulously crafted culture.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of hands-on experiences, from knife forging at authentic factories to making your own washi paper and tasting local sake. You’ll find cultural tours such as visiting Eiheiji Temple, exploring traditional crafts like lacquerware and pottery, and culinary adventures like fishing or miso tasting. For cruise travelers, a From Tsuruga Port Private Car Tour offers a personalized half-day of highlights. Whether you’re after artisan workshops, spiritual sites, or culinary delights, Fukui’s array of experiences is well worth your time.

Below, each experience is broken down with details on what makes it special, practical tips, and who it’s best suited for.

1. Private Echizen Knife Making Factory and walking Tour

At number 1, this 2.5-hour tour offers an intimate look at Echizen’s renowned knife-making industry. You start by visiting Yamaken Woodworks, where you’ll see how beautiful knife handles are crafted from aromatic wood. Then, at Ryuzen Hamono, you’ll get to observe blacksmiths forging high-quality knives and even try a bit of the process yourself. The tour includes walking through rice fields along a scenic route from Oshio train station, making it a perfect blend of craftsmanship and landscape. With a perfect 5-star rating, reviews praise the depth of interaction with artisans and the authenticity of the experience. At $163.30, the value lies in the opportunity to learn craft secrets that are rarely open to outsiders.

Bottom line: If you care about artisan craftsmanship and want a memorable, hands-on experience in a beautiful rural setting, this tour hits the mark.

2. Experience Private Washi Paper Making at Ryozo Washi Paper Mill

At number 2, this 2-hour tour invites you into the world of washi paper, a craft that has survived for over a thousand years. Mr. and Ms. Yanase, the owners, guide you through the entire process of making traditional Japanese paper used in commercial packaging. You’ll learn about the materials, techniques, and the delicate art of handmade washi. Afterwards, you can create your own custom paper—a perfect souvenir for craft lovers. Rated perfectly, the tour offers insider knowledge from seasoned artisans and a chance to appreciate the beauty of Japanese paper firsthand. The $130.07 price makes it a worthwhile investment in cultural understanding.

Bottom line: Ideal for craft enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone eager to try making traditional paper with expert guidance.

3. Private Echizen Washi Paper Making Experience and Walking Tour

This 3-hour experience combines a hands-on paper-making session with a scenic walk through the rural Echizen landscape. You start at RYOZO Paper Mill, where you’ll chat with washi craftsmen about their craft, then visit Osada Washi Co., Ltd. to see large-format paper production. The tour concludes with a visit to Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the god of paper, making this a spiritual and cultural journey rolled into one. With a small, intimate group and a 5-star rating, the $162.59 experience is perfect for those wanting depth and authenticity.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in craft, spirituality, and scenic walks, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Echizen’s paper-making tradition.

4. Experience Tasting Fukui’s Local Sake in Lacquered Glasses

For just $19.51, this hour-long tasting at Kubota Liquor Store offers a delightful dive into Fukui’s local sake scene. You’ll sample junmai and daiginjo sakes served in beautiful lacquered glasses, enhancing the flavor experience. The shop, established in 1914, provides a genuine setting for tasting Fukui’s renowned sakes, often praised for their smoothness and richness. With an enthusiastic review highlighting “very much enjoyed,” this is a great option for casual drinkers or those interested in Japanese beverage culture.

Bottom line: A relaxed, inexpensive way to sample local flavors and learn about Fukui’s sake traditions.

5. Making of Echizen Lacquerware and Tray Lacquering Experience

At number 5, this 1-hour hands-on experience is perfect for those who love DIY crafts. In Kawada, you’ll learn from Mr. Masataka Kinkori how to paint a wooden tray with lacquer, turning it into a functional piece of art. The tour includes using authentic tools, and you’ll finish with a hand-painted tray. The $178.14 cost reflects the personalized craftsmanship involved. Visitors rave about the quality of instruction and the pleasure of creating a functional souvenir.

Bottom line: Ideal for art and craft lovers who want a personalized, memorable keepsake.

6. Culinary Journey with Traditional Fishing Method Tour

This 2-hour tour offers an immersive look at Lake Mikata’s fishing traditions—although it’s not rated yet, it’s an intriguing cultural experience. You’ll witness over 400 years of fishing techniques and learn how the local community sustains its ecosystem. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers and cultural explorers interested in traditional livelihoods. The focus here is sustainable practices, making it both educational and environmentally conscious.

Bottom line: Well-suited for nature enthusiasts and those curious about local fishing traditions.

7. From Tsuruga Port Private Car Tour

For $707.50, this 7-hour private tour offers a customized experience tailored to your interests. It covers Dinosaur Museum, Eiheiji Temple, and Echizen Washi Village, blending science, spirituality, and craftsmanship in one day. The flexibility allows you to prioritize what interests you most—ideal for travelers who want a personalized trip with local insights. Reviews note that the tour provides a seamless and rich experience, perfect for families or culture-focused travelers.

Bottom line: Best for those wanting a full, flexible day exploring Fukui with a private guide.

8. Fukui: Eiheiji Temple and the Heart of Zen Buddhism

At 2.5 hours, this guided tour of Eiheiji Temple offers a deep dive into Zen Buddhism. Founded by Dogen Zenji in the 13th century, the temple remains a living monastery, where monks still train daily. You’ll wander through the Seven-Hall Complex, experiencing the serenity and discipline of Zen practice firsthand. The tour includes admission, making it accessible for most travelers interested in spiritual culture. The focus on authenticity and history makes it the top choice for spiritual seekers and history lovers.

Bottom line: A meaningful visit to one of Japan’s most important Zen monasteries, suitable for those interested in spiritual heritage.

9. Sake Tasting and Making Your Own Washi Sake Label

This 8-hour experience offers a full day of sake brewing insights combined with crafting. Visit Symphony Yoshida Sake Brewery to learn about Eiheiji’s sake terroir, then create your own sake label using washi paper at Igarashi Seishi. The hands-on process includes using sake lees and rice husks, making it a unique culinary and craft experience. Priced at $427.13, it’s a deep dive into Fukui’s brewing traditions with plenty of opportunity for personalization.

Bottom line: Perfect for serious enthusiasts of sake and traditional crafts who want an all-day immersive experience.

10. Explore Miso Factory with Miso Soup Cooking

At just $52.57, this 2-hour tour combines visiting a historic miso factory with hands-on miso soup making. You’ll learn about the importance of miso in Japanese cuisine, with the opportunity to participate in cooking. The vegan-friendly menu ensures inclusive participation. The tour offers insight into regional food culture and culinary techniques. While less focused on craftsmanship, it’s a practical experience for foodies interested in local ingredients and cooking methods.

Bottom line: Great for food lovers wanting to understand Japanese flavors through interactive cooking.

11. Echizen Pottery and Echizen Chest Tour with Japanese Sake Tasting

This 8-hour tour combines pottery-making, chest craftsmanship, and local sake tasting. It explores Echizen’s designation as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns and offers a chance to craft your own sake cup. You’ll also taste regional dishes and visit a sake brewery, providing a complete culinary and cultural experience. Rated at a high level, it suits artisans and collectors eager to experience craftsmanship firsthand.

Bottom line: Suitable for craft enthusiasts, especially those interested in ceramics and sake.

12. Make your own Spoon: Private Woodworking and Lacquerware Session

This 3-hour workshop allows you to learn Echizen lacquerware techniques while making a personalized wooden spoon. Guided by local craftsmen, you’ll see the transformation of raw wood into a finished item. The $177.44 price reflects the skill involved and the opportunity to create a meaningful souvenir. Reviewers appreciate the quality of instruction and hands-on approach.

Bottom line: Best for DIY lovers who want a practical craft experience and a lasting keepsake.

13. Tsuruga Private Customizable Full Day Tour

At around $644.26, this full-day private tour allows you to tailor your Tsuruga visit. Highlights include port history, the local shrine, and cultural sites. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone with specific interests. You can request visits to offbeat locations or popular spots, making your day personal and memorable. Reviewers note its seamless organization and personalized approach.

Bottom line: For flexible, private exploration, this tour fits travelers who want control over their itinerary.

14. Spirit of Craftsmanship in Japanese Papermaking in Echizen

This 3-hour journey explores Echizen’s paper-making heritage through hands-on experiences at multiple workshops. You’ll try making paper with artisans, visit a workshop specializing in large-format washi, and end at Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the God of Paper. Rated highly, it’s perfect for spiritual and craft lovers wanting to understand the significance of washi. The tour allows for deep cultural insight and personal creation of paper.

Bottom line: Excellent for those interested in Japanese spirituality and craftsmanship, with a focus on authentic, hands-on learning.

15. Echizen Lacquerware and Washi Paper Craft Tour

Concluding our list, this 8-hour tour in Kawada combines lacquerware workshops and washi paper crafting. You’ll visit Shikki Shrine, enshrining the god of lacquerware, and see actual painting at Shitsurindo. Then, you get to paint your own lacquerware bowl and enjoy local cuisine. The $460.10 price reflects a comprehensive day of craft, culture, and cuisine. Reviewers love the richness of the experience and hands-on involvement in traditional arts.

Bottom line: Ideal for artisans and craft collectors wanting to enjoy Echizen’s artisan traditions.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests, budget, and time available. If you want a deep dive into craftsmanship, the Private Echizen Knife Making and Echizen Lacquerware and Paper Tour are excellent choices. For culinary experiences, focusing on sake or miso tasting offers a delicious insight into Fukui’s regional flavors. Those with limited time might prefer the half-day tours like the Eiheiji Temple visit or the private Tsuruga tour.

Booking early is recommended, especially for workshops with limited capacity or during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn leaves. Match your interests—whether it’s art, food, history, or spirituality—to the right experience for a truly memorable Fukui visit.

Final Thoughts

Fukui Prefecture offers surprisingly rich opportunities for authentic culture. From craftsmanship workshops to spiritual temples, there’s something for every curious traveler. We recommend pairing a hands-on craft experience like making lacquerware with a visit to Eiheiji Temple for a balanced insight into Japan’s spiritual and artistic traditions. For food lovers, combining a sake tasting with a visit to a miso factory creates a flavorful day.

Don’t forget to book early to secure your spot in these popular workshops and tours. Whether you’re after a meaningful souvenir or a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, Fukui’s experiences promise to leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a new hobby or two.