Fukui Prefecture is located in the Chubu region of Japan (specifically, the Hokuriku region) and corresponds to the former provinces of Echizen and Wakasa. The prefectural capital is Fukui City. It is the westernmost prefecture in the Hokuriku region and also has the smallest population among the prefectures in this area. Rich in nature, Fukui has inherited a long history and culture, and maintains strong ties with the Kansai region.
Geography and Regional Divisions
Fukui Prefecture is known for its scenic terrain, surrounded by mountains and the sea, and is broadly divided into two major regions:
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Reihoku Region: Corresponds to the former Echizen Province and is located in the northern part of the prefecture. It includes cities such as Fukui, Sakai, and Sabae, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center.
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Reinan Region: Corresponds to the former Wakasa Province and Tsuruga City, located in the southern part of the prefecture. It includes towns such as Mihama, Obama, and Takahama, with a beautiful ria coastline stretching along Wakasa Bay.
On maps, Fukui Prefecture is often described as having a unique shape resembling a "key" or an "elephant." The western side faces Wakasa Bay, while the eastern side faces the Echizen Coast. Facing the Sea of Japan, Fukui's coastal waters contain around 180 uninhabited islands, offering a landscape that showcases the area's natural abundance.
Climate Characteristics
Fukui Prefecture falls under the Sea of Japan climate zone and is designated entirely as a heavy snowfall area. Particularly, the former town of Imajo (now part of Minamiechizen), as well as Ono City, Katsuyama City, and Ikeda Town, are classified as special heavy snowfall zones. In some years, Ono City records an annual snowfall exceeding 500 cm.
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Inland Areas (such as Fukui City and Ono City): Experience heavy snowfall in winter, with some years seeing more than one meter of snow as a regular occurrence.
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Coastal Areas (such as Tsuruga City and Obama City): Are relatively mild due to the influence of the Tsushima Current, and tend to have more rainy days than snowy ones.
There are about 170 days of precipitation per year on average, and the region is so rainy that a local saying goes, "Even if you forget your lunchbox, don’t forget your umbrella."
Transportation and Connection with the Kansai Region
While Fukui Prefecture belongs to the Hokuriku region, it maintains close administrative and transportation ties with the Kansai region. The Reinan area (Wakasa region) especially has strong interactions with Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures.
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From Tsuruga Station, JR West’s Special Rapid trains provide direct service to Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, offering excellent access to the Kansai region.
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In some administrative classifications, such as those by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Fukui Prefecture is considered part of the Kinki (Kansai) region.
Nature and Culture
Fukui Prefecture is symbolized by the phrase Etsuzan Jakusui (越山若水), which represents the beautiful natural environment formed by the mountains of Echizen and the clear streams of Wakasa. The ria coastline, the crystal-clear sea, and the deep mountains create breathtaking landscapes that captivate visitors.
The region also retains strong historical roots dating back to ancient and medieval times, with cultural assets such as Echizen pottery, Buddhist statue traditions, and the historic Wakasa Saba Kaido (Mackerel Road) route to Kyoto.
Summary
Fukui Prefecture is a region where people live in harmony with diverse natural surroundings, from snow-covered mountain towns to warm coastal fishing ports. As a "borderland" connecting Hokuriku and Kansai, it embraces the cultures of both regions while preserving its own unique traditions and atmosphere. With nature that changes beautifully through the seasons, historic towns, and excellent access from the Kansai area, Fukui quietly shines with its own special charm.