Visa-free for many countries up to 90 days; check your nationality.

What language is spoken?

Japanese; English is limited. Learn basic phrases.

Is credit card widely accepted?

Cash is king; many small shops and restaurants only accept cash.

How to get to Fukui-shi from Tokyo?

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Fukui Station (about 2.5 hours).

What is the local specialty food?

Echizen crab (winter), soba noodles, and oroshi soba with grated daikon.

Are there onsen (hot springs)?

Yes, several ryokan and public baths, especially in Awara Onsen area.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, but check roaming; local SIM cards are available.

Fukui-shi

CityFukui, Japan

Fukui-shi is a CITY in Fukui, Japan.

Fukui-shi, the capital of Fukui Prefecture, is a serene city where ancient history meets natural beauty. Nestled between the Sea of Japan and the Ryohaku Mountains, it's famous for the stunning Tojinbo Cliffs, a dramatic coastline of columnar basalt, and the Eiheiji Temple, a serene Zen Buddhist monastery founded in 1244. The city is also a haven for dinosaur enthusiasts, home to the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, one of the world's best. Wander through the Ichijodani Asakura Family Historic Ruins, a beautifully preserved samurai town, or savor local specialties like Echizen crab and soba noodles. With its blend of cultural treasures, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality, Fukui-shi offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Japanese experience.

Best time to visit Fukui-shi

Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) are best. Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather; autumn brings vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summer is hot and humid, winter is cold with heavy snow, ideal for hot springs.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 13-21°C, clear

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

Best for autumn foliage

Know before you go

Getting there

FUK

Fukui Airport

Domestic

5 km away

KMQ

Komatsu Airport

Domestic/International

50 km away

NGO

Chubu Centrair International Airport

International

150 km away

Getting around

"Fukui-shi is compact and walkable in the center. Buses connect major attractions like Eiheiji and Tojinbo. The Fukui Railway and local trains are efficient. Renting a bicycle is a great option. Taxis are available but expensive. Consider a rental car for remote areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; occasional scams targeting tourists are rare.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; occasional scams targeting tourists are rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Fukui-shi is very safe with low crime. Petty theft is rare but keep valuables secure. Natural risks include earthquakes; know evacuation routes. Typhoons occur in late summer/early autumn. Roads can be icy in winter. Always follow local advisories."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"Fukui-shi has modern medical facilities, including Fukui University Hospital. Travelers should have travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are available for minor ailments. For any health concerns, consult a doctor before travel; routine vaccinations are recommended."

Culture

Local customs

"Respectful behavior is key: bow when greeting, remove shoes before entering homes/temples, and avoid loud conversations. Tipping is not customary. Dress modestly at religious sites. Learn basic Japanese phrases like 'Arigato' (thank you). Public bathing requires full nudity; wash before entering the bath."

Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a decent meal costs $10-15

Hotels

$60-100 | mid-range hotels $60-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Sightseeing passes offer discounts.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 05:06

More facts

Population

262,328

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: FKJ, Fukui, Fukuj, fu jing, fu jing shi, fukuishi, Фукуй, ふくいし, 福井, 福井市, 182010, 후쿠이시, ฟูกูอิ, Fukujus, फुकुई, Фукуј

Capital CityMajor HubHistoricNatureFamily-FriendlyCulturalFoodie