Still under the radar for many Japan travelers, Fukui Prefecture is home to some fascinating historical and cultural sites, including the world-class Fukui Dinosaur Museum. It also has some beautiful examples of spring color to enjoy, with cherry blossoms and azaleas as the highlights. This guide covers three great destinations to enjoy the best of spring in the region.
Asuwayama Park
Located around 10 minutes by taxi from Fukui Station you'll find Asuwayama Park, which has a history dating back to 1909. With over 3500 cherry trees to enjoy, the park was designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom viewing spots – it's one of the prefecture's two spots that made the list. If you plan to visit, the blooms are usually at their best around early to mid April.
58-97 Yamaokucho, Fukui, 918-8009
Maruoka Castle Park
Each year from around early to mid April, the grounds of Maruoka Castle and the neighboring Kasumigajo Park are home to the Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival. There are approximately 400 Somei Yoshino sakura trees to enjoy, and they're illuminated after dark during the blooming season as well.
The castle has been designated as an Important Cultural Property, and the grounds are Fukui's other entrant on the list of Japan's Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots – so there is something for both the nature lovers and the history buffs!
1-Chome 59, Maruokacho Kasumicho, Sakai, Fukui, 910-0231
Nishiyama Park
If azaleas are one of your springtime favorites, be sure to pop Nishiyama Park on your must-see list. The park is home to an incredible 50,000 azaleas which bloom in various colors around the early May timeframe. Along with the beautiful flowers to enjoy, you'll find other attractions here including a Japanese garden and the Nishiyama Zoo.
3 Chome-8-10 Sakuramachi, Sabae, Fukui 916-0027
