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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Echizen City.
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Echizen City is a treasure trove of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and unique experiences.
From laying eyes on the pristine beaches to immersing oneself in the vibrant local festivals, there’s never a shortage of things to do in this charming city.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Echizen City has something to offer everyone.
Ready to explore?
Let’s discover the hidden gems of Echizen City together.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Echizen City:
1. Echizen Great Buddha Statue
Echizen Great Buddha Statue is a massive bronze statue of Buddha located in Echizen City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the size and beauty of the statue, which stands at 17 meters high and weighs 65 tons.
They can also explore the surrounding park and take photos of the statue.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the statue up close and appreciate its serene expression and intricate details. Also, make sure to snap a photo with the statue in the background—it’s a great souvenir.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the fall to witness the beautiful autumn foliage in the park.
2. Echizen Matsushima Aquarium
Echizen Matsushima Aquarium is a popular aquarium located in Echizen City, Japan.
What to see or do: The aquarium features a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, penguins, and a variety of fish species.
Visitors can enjoy watching dolphin and seal shows, as well as interactive exhibits where they can touch and interact with some of the marine animals.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the aquarium is the dolphin show, which features spectacular performances by these intelligent and playful creatures.
Visitors can also take a boat ride around the aquarium to get a closer look at the marine life and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the aquarium early in the day to avoid the crowds and get a chance to see the marine life up close.
3. Echizen Ono Castle
Echizen Ono Castle, also known as Ono Castle, is a historic castle located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle grounds and take in the surrounding scenery.
There are also various historical exhibits within the castle, including a samurai armor exhibit, a tea ceremony room, and a traditional Japanese garden.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb up the main keep of the castle, where you can get a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or on a weekday. Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many uneven surfaces throughout the castle grounds.
4. Sabae City Fureai Park
A public park located in Sabae City, Echizen City in Japan.
What to see or do: The park features a variety of facilities and attractions including a playground, swimming pool, and baseball field.
Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the park’s beautiful Japanese garden or rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The park’s large pond, which is home to a variety of fish and water birds. Visitors can feed the fish and observe the birds from the park’s observation deck.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the park’s website for special events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing day in the park.
5. Takefu Shishi-no-Sato Samurai Village
A historical village that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of samurais.
What to see or do: Take a walk around the village and explore the samurai houses, feel the authenticity of Japanese medieval culture including costumes, weapons, and traditional performances.
You can also watch the reenactment of samurai battles with impressive displays of swords and martial arts.
Don’t miss: The traditional samurai show, which is held throughout the day and includes various performances like sword fighting and archery. Make sure to visit the Dojo where samurais would practice the Shinkyu martial art.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes to walk around in, and visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. The entrance fee is reasonably priced and includes many shows and experiences in the village.
6. Nishiyama Zoo
Nishiyama Zoo is a popular wildlife park located in Echizen City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a variety of animals at the zoo, including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and more. There is also a children’s zoo where kids can interact with animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and goats.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the daily animal shows, where various animals showcase their unique skills. The zoo also has a mini amusement park with rides and attractions for kids.
Insider travel tips: Get to the zoo early in the day to beat the crowds and to have a better chance of seeing the animals when they are most active.
Bring sunscreen and water as the zoo does not have much shade.
Additionally, check the zoo’s schedule ahead of time to see if there are any special events or activities happening during your visit.
7. Echizen Matsushima Cruise
Echizen Matsushima Cruise is a sightseeing boat tour located in Echizen City, Japan that takes visitors along the rugged coastline, showcasing stunning views of the towering cliffs and jagged rock formations.
What to see or do: During the Echizen Matsushima Cruise, visitors will be able to witness breathtaking views of the breathtaking cliffs and arches that jut out from the rough seas.
The tour also takes visitors into the famous Tojinbo cliffs, which are a series of basaltic columns that rise up from the sea, offering a truly unique sight.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Echizen City, which provides the perfect backdrop for taking memorable photographs.
You’ll also want to keep your eye out for diverse marine life, including dolphins and seals, which can often be spotted during the tour as well.
Insider travel tips: The best time to enjoy this cruise is during the warmer months of the year, from around April to October when the weather is pleasant.
Visitors should also arrive a bit early to be sure they don’t miss the boat departure time, as the cruises only run at certain times during the day.
Lastly, be sure to bring a jacket or sweater as it can get quite chilly out on the water even during the summer months.
8. Echizen Ono Seiganji Temple
Echizen Ono Seiganji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the 8th century and is famous for its historic architecture and beautiful surroundings.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the impressive 5-story pagoda, main hall, and other buildings.
The temple is also home to a number of important cultural artifacts, including a wooden statue of a Buddhist goddess that is more than a thousand years old.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the temple’s stunning gardens, which are designed to reflect the changing seasons. The gardens feature a pond, a waterfall, and a variety of plants and flowers.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Echizen Ono Seiganji Temple is in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
9. Echizen Pottery Village
Echizen Pottery Village is a traditional pottery town in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan. The village is known for its beautiful handcrafted pottery and ceramics.
What to see or do: Explore the quaint village, stroll around the beautiful streets, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Witness local artisans demonstrating their pottery-making skills at the various workshops.
Don’t miss: Make your own pottery with the help of skilled professionals at the local pottery studios. Visit the Echizen Folklore Museum and learn about the rich history of the pottery industry in the area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the village during the Echizen Pottery Festival, which is held in October. Buy souvenirs from the many pottery shops and studios dotted around the village.
Take a guided tour to learn about the various pottery-making techniques and traditions of the village.
10. Okamoto Otaki Shrine
Okamoto Otaki Shrine, located in Echizen City, is a Shinto shrine known for its spectacular setting and ancient trees.
What to see or do: Take a walk through the lush forest path leading up to the shrine, and admire the towering cedar trees that are over 800 years old.
You’ll also find several smaller shrines along the way, each with their own unique charm. At the main shrine, pay your respects and offer prayers for good fortune.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the top of the stairs leading up to the main shrine is not to be missed. You’ll also find a pair of sacred stones nearby, said to bring good fortune in love and romance.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the autumn season, be sure to catch the gorgeous autumn foliage. The shrine can be quite busy during peak tourist seasons, so plan accordingly.
Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes for the forest walk and bring insect repellent.
11. Echizen Misaki Lighthouse
Echizen Misaki Lighthouse is a picturesque lighthouse located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Sea of Japan and the rugged coastline.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk along the picturesque cliff path leading up to the lighthouse, which offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the autumn months, when the surrounding trees are transformed into a stunning array of autumnal colors.
It’s also recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
12. Kamonji Temple
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Try the Matcha green tea and traditional Japanese sweets at the tea house and visit during the temple’s illumination events held during specific times in the year to witness the temple in a different light.
13. Echizen Daibutsu Temple
Echizen Daibutsu is a historic Buddhist temple located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The highlight of this temple is the giant bronze statue of Buddha standing at a height of 17.38 meters.
Visitors can climb up to the observation deck inside the statue and get a panoramic view of the surrounding area. You can also admire the beautiful gardens and sculptures surrounding the temple.
Don’t miss: The temple complex has several other buildings and sculptures worth checking out, including a pagoda, a bell tower, and a museum showcasing the history of the temple and the local area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience the peaceful atmosphere.
Also, try to attend one of the temple’s annual events like the Echizen Daibutsu Fire Festival, which takes place in August, for a unique cultural experience.
14. Shingakuin Temple
Shingakuin Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds which includes a main hall, bell tower and several smaller buildings. There is also a small museum on-site showcasing a collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts and artwork.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of Shingakuin Temple is the stunning 300-year-old Japanese garden, which is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved around the temple grounds.
15. Iwamotoji Temple
Iwamotoji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple located in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the beautiful temple grounds and admire the vibrant red and golden accents of the buildings. The main hall, dating back to the 17th century, is a designated cultural property of Japan and is a must-see.
Visitors can also participate in Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal, at the temple’s restaurant.
Don’t miss: The stunning three-storied pagoda, recognized as one of the nation’s Important Cultural Properties, is a highlight. Visitors should also check out the stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and the fall foliage in the autumn.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the temple complex is quite expansive.