Echizen Ono Castle
Echizen Ono Castle rises to the top of Mount Kameyama (249 meters above sea level) in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture. The castle was initially built around 1580 but burned down in 1775. The current castle was reconstructed in 1968.
The castle's architecture is rustic and elegant, blending beautifully with the surrounding natural scenery.
Fukui Station West Plaza (Dinosaur Plaza)
With the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen in March 2024, Fukui Station is drawing increased attention. The "Dinosaur Plaza" at the west exit is a fitting gateway to Fukui Prefecture, known as the "Dinosaur Kingdom" due to the numerous fossils discovered here. The plaza boasts a variety of dinosaur-themed attractions.
The plaza has a modern and open design, which makes the space feel really spacious.
Gokayama Ainokura/Suganuma Gassho-Zukuri Village
In the southwestern tip of Toyama Prefecture, Gokayama consists of 40 small villages scattered across five valleys.
It's like a smaller version of Shirakawa-go, but it's a great choice if you prefer somewhere less crowded and quieter.
Omicho Market
This is Kanazawa’s kitchen, which has been known as “Omicho” for about 300 years. It is always busy and vibrant, with approximately 170 stores selling fresh seasonal seafood, vegetables, prepared foods, souvenirs, and other items lined up in a narrow arcade.
Kanazawa is close to the Sea of Japan, so there's a great supply of seafood. Omicho Market is known as Kanazawa's kitchen, and trying the seafood here is a must.
Takayama Jin-ya
Takayama Jin-ya is the office building where magistrates and officers were working in the Edo Period. It consists of offices and storage. In 1692 when Hida Province came under the Tokugawa shogunate’s direct control, governors and magistrates sent from Edo performed official duties here for the next 176 years.
This was the administrative center during the Edo period. The interior has been restored to look just like it did back then. It's perfect for learning about history and taking photos.
Inuyama Castle
The Inuyama Castle keep is one of five deemed national treasures in Japan. It’s especially famous for remaining today as the oldest watchtower-style keep in Japan. It’s said it was built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu, the father of Oda Nobunaga.
The inside of the castle keep is all wood, and you have to take off your shoes to enter. Climbing up to the fifth floor for the view is absolutely worth it.