Heal yourself with a trip through time and flowers in Fukui, Japan

Find peace in nature and take a trip through time. Feel the soft sunlight of summer, get away from the noise of the city, and take a trip to heal the soul. Walk by the hydrangeas on the riverside, through the memories of wartime, to a world of peace. Here are 3 spots that are easily accessible by walking or by bus.

A walkway along the Asuwa River where the hydrangeas grow

The Asuwa River is walking distance from Fukui Station. Its riverbanks are known for being great spots to see flowers in spring and summer. In spring, there are cherry blossoms and in summer, there are hydrangeas. The area changes with the season, so you see a different side of its beauty every time you visit. In June, over 10,000 hydrangeas spanning a distance of about 2 km bloom along the river. See and be in awe of flowers of pink, blue, white, and everything in between. The flowers reflected in the water and the sound of leaves in the wind – These are sure to heal the hearts of those who walk here. We recommend taking a walk in the quiet of the morning. In the early hours of the morning, all you can hear are the chirping of birds and the flowing river, and somehow the colors of the flowers seem more vibrant. On the other hand, the contrast of the sky at sunset and the hydrangeas also gives way to a unique atmosphere.

Hours	24/7
Address	Asuwakami-cho, Fukui-shi, Fukui Prefecture
Acess	Hotel Fujita Fukui: 5-min. walk from the hotel
URL	https://fuku–iro-jp.translate.goog/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja&_x_tr_pto=wapp

Through wartime history at the Ichijodani Asakura Ruins in summer

This spot is a 30-min. bus ride from Fukui Station. The Ichijodani Asakura Ruins are located in a valley surrounded by tall mountains. It was once the base for a feudal lord that conquered a certain province in Fukui, Japan. The ruins of a castle town that died out around 400 years ago are preserved there. It is a valuable historical site that is also called the “Pompeii of Japan.” In June, the area is decorated with green trees. It is a beautiful season where the historical cobblestone are in harmony with the greenery. In the restored town, you can experience life back then and there are guided tours (*multiple languages available). It’s a popular spot for foreign tourists as well. A walk through nature and time is a quiet and unique way to get away from the noise of everyday life. This is also a great spot for a half-day getaway to add to your itinerary.

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
Address	Kidonouchi-cho, Fukui-shi, Fukui Prefecture
Access	Hotel Fujita Fukui: From Fukui Station, take the Keifuku Bus on the Ichijodani Togo Line to the Fukugenmachinami bus stop
URL	http://fukuisan.jp/en/asakura/index.html

Heal your heart in a world of peace at Eiheiji Temple

“I want to get away and heal.” Eiheiji Temple, a 40-min. bus ride from Fukui Station, is the place to do so. It was built in 1244 by a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk, and even now, there are over 200 monks in training there. When you walk the path and through the gate surrounded by pine trees, you will feel the air change and notice the quietness of nature. There are wooden structures and other spots that are culturally important properties in Japan. The mossy garden is also known for being especially beautiful after the rain. The rain creates a uniquely soothing atmosphere here. Recently, guides and pamphlets in multiple languages have been added, so there have been more foreign visitors. It’s a wonderful spot for simple sightseeing and for a soul retreat.

Hours	8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Address	5-15 Shihi, Eiheiji, Yoshida-gun, Fukui Prefecture
Access	Hotel Fujita Fukui: From Fukui Station, take the Keifuku Bus called the Eiheiji Liner to the Eiheiji bus stop
URL	https://daihonzan-eiheiji.com/en/