It lies between Ishikawa (north), Gifu (east), Shiga and Kyoto (south).
Capital: Fukui City.
The area is divided into Reihoku (north, formerly Echizen) with wider plains and Reinan (south, formerly Wakasa) with a narrower coastal strip.
Landscape and nature: Fukui has a humid climate with high precipitation, especially snow in winter.
It combines mountains, plains with rice fields, and a rugged coastline.
Famous natural beauty: Tojinbo Cliffs → impressive basalt columns on the Echizen coast.
Three lakes and bays such as Wakasa Bay.
Many clear rivers and water sources that provide good rice and local products.
Sights: Eiheiji Temple — one of the most important Soto Zen temples in Japan, founded in the 13th century, surrounded by cedars.
Fukui Dinosaur Museum — one of the best dinosaur museums in the world (Fukui is also called the "Dinosaur Kingdom" because many fossils have been found here).
Other highlights: Echizen Ono Castle (the "castle in the sky"), historical ruins such as Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins, and traditional crafts (eyewear, textiles, Echizen-yaki pottery).
Economy and culture: The prefecture is rural and known for: Rice (Koshihikari), seafood, fried tofu, textiles, and eyewear production (Fukui makes almost all Japanese eyewear).
Nuclear energy (many reactors at Tsuruga).
Fukui often scores high on happiness indices and life expectancy thanks to the peaceful living environment, nature, and sense of community.
It is an "underrated" destination: less touristy than Kyoto or Kanazawa, but rich in history (samurai past), spirituality, and relaxation.
In short: Fukui is a quiet, nature-rich prefecture with a mix of Zen culture, prehistoric finds, and beautiful coastal and mountain landscapes – ideal for those seeking "real Japan" outside the big cities.
Since the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension, it is easier to reach from Tokyo or Osaka.
