Our 15 Favorite Fukui Prefecture Tours

Fukui Prefecture stands out as a place where authentic craftsmanship and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Unlike more touristy destinations, Fukui offers hands-on experiences that reveal Japan’s enduring artisanal traditions. We particularly love the Private Echizen Knife Making Factory and walking Tour because of its intimate access to master blacksmiths and the chance to see the world-famous Echizen knives being crafted firsthand. Exploring the Washi paper-making process at Ryozo Washi Paper Mill offers a rare glimpse into a craft that has been practiced for over a millennium. These experiences provide a rich, tactile connection to Japan’s cultural roots, making Fukui a treasure for those eager to see how everyday items are made with skill and patience. For more craft-focused touring, check out the Echizen Washi Paper Making Experience that also includes visits to Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the god of paper. []

Quick Overview

Fukui’s best tours cover a range of traditional crafts, culinary experiences, and cultural sites. You’ll find hands-on workshops like making Echizen lacquerware or trying your hand at calligraphy. There are also private food tastings, including local sake and fresh seafood. For a more immersive day, consider full-day customized tours that combine multiple highlights, or explore temple visits and nature walks. Each experience emphasizes authentic, often artisanal, aspects of Fukui life. Now, let’s explore the top options on our list.

1. Private Echizen Knife Making Factory and walking Tour

Rated 5.0/5 with 10 reviews, this 2.5-hour tour offers an inside look at the renowned Echizen knife-making tradition. Visitors visit Yamaken Woodworks to see how the beautiful handles are crafted from aromatic wood, and then head to Ryuzen Hamono, where professional blacksmiths produce high-quality blades. The tour also includes a hands-on experience in part of the knife-making process, making it perfect for culinary enthusiasts or knife collectors. The guides are passionate and eager to share the craft’s history, providing a tangible link to centuries-old techniques. The tour’s price of around $177 offers excellent value considering the exclusive access and personal interaction. Bottom line: If you love craftsmanship and want a meaningful, hands-on experience, this tour ranks high.

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

With a perfect 5.0 rating from five reviews, this 2-hour experience takes you into the heart of Japan’s traditional washi paper-making. You’ll tour the factory where commercial-grade paper for packaging and advertising is produced, then make your own washi under the guidance of skilled artisans, including Mr. and Ms. Yanase. This tour offers insight into the craft’s historical significance and contemporary application, making it ideal for art lovers and DIY enthusiasts. The hands-on aspect is complemented by the opportunity to learn about how washi is used in everything from decorative arts to commercial packaging. At $142, this experience provides a great balance of insight and activity.

3. Private Echizen Washi Paper Making Experience and Walking Tour

Rated 5.0 with four reviews, this 3-hour tour combines washi-making with visits to Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the god of paper. You’ll visit two factories—Ryozo and Osada Washi, engaging directly with artisans and making your own paper. The route also includes a stroll through the scenic Otaki Shrine, where the spiritual connection to paper craftsmanship is palpable. This is an excellent choice for cultural travelers who want an immersive, comprehensive experience. The price of approximately $164 reflects the depth of engagement and the inclusion of shrine visits. Bottom line: It’s perfect if you’re interested in both craft and spiritual history.

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

At just over $21, this hour-long tasting at Kubota Liquor Store is a must for sake lovers. The store, established in 1914, offers locally brewed sakes served in traditional lacquered glasses, highlighting the region’s brewing expertise. You can sample junmai and daiginjo sakes, each served in a glass designed to enhance flavor. The intimate setting and knowledgeable staff make this a delightful introduction to Fukui’s sake scene. One review mentions, “The sake experience was very enjoyable,” emphasizing its appeal for those looking for a focused, authentic tasting.

5. Making of Echizen Lacquerware and Tray Lacquering Experience

For about $178, this hands-on lacquerware experience lets you paint your own wooden tray under the guidance of Mr. Masataka Kinkori, a skilled craftsman. The tour includes observing traditional techniques like polishing and applying lacquer, offering a comprehensive look at Echizen lacquerware. The final product is a practical keepsake, perfect for food presentation or home decor. The experience is suited for art enthusiasts and families, providing a meaningful connection to regional craft. Bottom line: This activity emphasizes craftsmanship and results in a tangible souvenir.

6. Culinary Journey with Traditional Fishing Method Tour

Priced at around $146, this 2-hour tour offers a local fishing experience on Lake Mikata, known for its Ramsar-designated wetlands. Guided by experienced locals, you’ll learn about traditional fishing practices that have persisted for over 400 years. The tour emphasizes sustainable practices and cultural preservation, making it ideal for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. While it currently lacks reviews, the focus on authenticity and environmental conservation makes it a compelling choice for those eager to see traditional life in action.

7. Spirit of Craftsmanship in Japanese Papermaking in Echizen

This 3-hour tour invites you into Echizen’s paper-making workshops and shrines, focusing on the spiritual and technical aspects of washi. Starting with hands-on paper-making at Ryozo, you’ll visit a workshop producing large-format washi used by artists, then explore Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the god of paper. The detailed craftsmanship and spiritual connection make this a deep dive into a craft that’s been vital to Japan’s identity for centuries. Priced at about $120, it offers an immersive cultural experience.

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

For around $177, this 3-hour woodworking experience at Hacoa and Shitsurindo workshops allows you to polish and personalize your own lacquered spoon. You’ll observe craftsmen transforming raw wood into functional art before finishing your piece with traditional techniques. It’s perfect for DIY lovers and those wanting a practical souvenir. The focus on authentic process and craftsmanship makes this a memorable experience, especially for those interested in functional art.

9. Echizen Lacquerware and Washi Paper Craft Tour

Spanning a full day, this 8-hour tour provides a comprehensive look at Echizen’s lacquerware and washi. Visiting two lacquer workshops and two paper mills, you’ll see painting, crafting, and shrine visits that highlight the region’s rich traditions. The side trip to Otaki Shrine enriches the experience with spiritual insight. Costing about $460, it’s suited for serious craft lovers willing to spend a day immersed in regional artistry and history. Expect a full, detailed exploration with many opportunities for hands-on activities.

10. Tsuruga Private Customizable Full Day Tour

This full-day, bespoke tour lets you tailor your visit to Tsuruga, including local markets, historic sites, and cultural spots. For roughly $644, you’ll fill your day with your preferred attractions, guided by local expertise. It’s ideal for families or adventure travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience. The ability to select your interests makes this tour a great option for those who want control over their itinerary and a customized journey.

11. FromTsuruga Port Private Car Tour

For cruise travelers, this 7-hour private car tour offers a seamless exploration of Fukui’s highlights. Visiting the Dinosaur Museum, Eiheiji Temple, and Washi Village, you’ll get a well-rounded experience of nature, culture, and craftsmanship. The customized itinerary means you can prioritize your interests, making it suitable for families or history buffs. At $707, it’s a premium option but provides convenience and flexibility.

12. Echizen Washi Calligraphy Experience

This 6-hour experience combines calligraphy, a local meal, and praying at Otaki Shrine. It offers a personal artistic journey into Japan’s traditional , perfect for art lovers and cultural explorers. You’ll learn calligraphy techniques and can have your work framed for an additional fee, adding a personal souvenir. Priced at $229, it balances creative activity with spiritual practice.

13. Private Making your Own Unique Sunglass in Sabae Fukui

For about $99, this hour-long tour at Inui Lens allows you to learn about lens manufacturing and customize your own sunglasses. Perfect for fashion-conscious travelers seeking a personal accessory, you’ll choose from over 300 colors and fit lenses into your preferred frame. This quick but fun activity offers a unique souvenir that stands out among typical souvenir shops.

14. Craft a Unique and Colorful Ring Using Glasses Materials at KISSO

This 1.5-hour workshop costs about $99 and lets you create a one-of-a-kind ring using glasses materials. Watching the crafting process and then designing your piece makes it ideal for creative jewelry lovers. The workshop emphasizes personalization and artistic expression, making it a memorable small-group activity for those wanting a wearable keepsake.

15. Sake Tasting and Making Your Own Washi Sake Label

Spanning around 8 hours and costing about $427, this premium experience combines sake brewing at Symphony Yoshida Sake Brewery with handmade washi labels. You’ll learn about Eiheiji terroir, then craft your own label using sake lees and rice husks at Igarashi Seishi. It’s suited for serious connoisseurs or culinary travelers interested in both sake and traditional craft. The detailed process and high-quality sake make it a special indulgence.

How to Choose Your Perfect Fukui Tour

When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and time constraints. If you’re passionate about craftsmanship, tours like the Echizen Knife Making or Lacquerware activities will satisfy your curiosity. Budget travelers might prefer the sake tasting or ring-making for their affordability and fun factor. For those wanting a full immersion, the full-day lacquerware and washi tour offers a comprehensive look at Fukui’s artisan roots, while private tours provide flexibility. Remember to book early, especially for popular experiences like the calligraphy or custom tours.

Fukui offers a diverse range of authentic, craft-oriented experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re interested in traditional crafts, culinary delights, or spiritual sites, there’s a tour to suit. We recommend starting with the Private Echizen Knife Making for a hands-on craft, or sampling Fukui’s local sake for a taste of regional flavor. For a deep dive into Japan’s paper-making heritage, the Washi paper experiences are hard to beat. Whichever you choose, early reservations help ensure you don’t miss out on these engaging journeys into Fukui’s vibrant traditions.