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A 3.5-hour train ride from Tokyo, Fukui Prefecture is known as Dinosaur kingdom as 80 percent of Japan’s dinosaur fossils are found in the prefecture. Dinosaurs are a symbol of Fukui, according to a Fukui local I spoke with.
A visit to the Fukui Station and other attractions nearby, and you’ll see many nods to the prefecture’s affinity to the prehistoric giants.
At the station square, murals and trick art make for great photo ops. In the evening, the dinosaur murals and sculptures are illuminated so you can enjoy the area no matter the time of day.
Nearby, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum displays 44 dinosaur skeletons on display and many other exhibits. The museum is considered one of the world’s greatest dinosaur museums and a must-see attraction for dinosaur lovers. The museum is closed for renovation until Summer 2023, so make plans to visit Fukui then.
For a non-dinosaur-related spot to visit, head to Fukui Central Park, built on the ruins of Fukui Castle. The grounds including the remnants of a moat, bridge and fountains are fantastically illuminated in the evening hours.
In Fukui walk amongst replicas and artwork of the historic former inhabitants, and the remains of the feudal history in one trip!
Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (reopens Summer 2023)
