Top Fukui Prefecture Half-day Tours

Tour Attractions: Echizen Washi boasts 1,500 years of history and unparalleled quality. This experience combines traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity, offering a comprehensive programme of activities that will allow you to delve into the history, techniques, and culture of Echizen Washi in just a few hours. You will have the opportunity to make washi paper by hand and craft your own washi uchiwa (Japanese paper fans). The finished paper and fans will be yours to take home as unique and memorable keepsakes. This three-hour experience encapsulates all the charm and tradition of Echizen Washi Paper. Outline of the Echizen Washi Experience Tour: This immersive three-hour tour lets you explore the rich history and exceptional craftsmanship of washi paper. Set in Echizen, a region with 1,500 years of washi-making heritage, you’ll experience the living traditions of this remarkable craft by creating handmade washi in one of Japan’s most renowned production areas.

The Kawada district of Sabae City is a town of Echizen lacquerware with a history of 1500 years. Tour the roots of Echizen lacquerware on a lacquered bicycle, including the Lacquerware Shrine (Shikiyama Shrine), which enshrines the god of lacquerware, and a tour of a workshop led by a craftsman.

Discover the essence of Washoku on an exclusive culinary journey in the historic port town of Tsuruga on the Sea of Japan. Visit Okui Kaiseido, a renowned kombu specialist with over 140 years of tradition. Guided by expert staff and an interpreter, explore the rarely opened Kuragakoi kombu aging warehouse through a special deep-dive route unavailable on standard tours. Learn how kombu transported from Hokkaido by historic Kitamae-bune ships matures in Tsuruga’s cool climate, developing deep umami through time and craftsmanship. Enjoy a live demonstration of “Oboro Kombu Suki” by a master craftsman, followed by a tasting that compares kombu of different aging vintages. The experience concludes with a luxurious sushi lunch made with the freshest local seafood. Travel in comfort with private executive transfers in a premium Grand Ace vehicle—an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and cuisine for discerning travelers.

Travel from Tsuruga Port to Eiheiji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Zen monasteries, where you can enjoy a peaceful cedar-forest setting and traditional monastic architecture. After exploring the temple, visit NOUSAKU Eiheiji Store for free time to have lunch (at your own expense) and join a hands-on tin amulet-making workshop. Following the experience, return to Tsuruga Port in time to reboard your ship. This premium shore excursion combines spiritual discovery with traditional craftsmanship. Guests experience the tranquil atmosphere of Eiheiji and create a unique souvenir inspired by Japanese culture. Designed exclusively for cruise passengers arriving at Tsuruga Port, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a small-group setting of up to five guests, ensuring a comfortable and personalized cultural experience.

Experience the profound spirituality and craftsmanship of Echizen Washi on a guided tour through its historic village. First, enjoy a hands-on paper-making experience under the guidance of skilled artisans. Next, visit a workshop specializing in large-format washi, highly sought after by artists. Finally, explore Otaki Shrine, renowned for its intricately crafted roof, considered one of the finest in Japan. Stroll along the riverside in this peaceful village and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Echizen Washi, which has been passed down for over 1,500 years.