Fukui Prefecture occupies Japan's rugged Sea of Japan coastline in the Hokuriku region, blending ancient Zen Buddhism, world-class dinosaur discoveries, dramatic basalt cliffs, and five centuries of traditional craftsmanship into one of Japan's most underrated destinations.
Cultural orientation
Essential context for travellers.
Remove shoes when entering traditional ryokan rooms, most temples, and traditional craft workshop tatami areas
At Eiheiji Temple, speak quietly and walk calmly — resident monks are in active training and prayer at all hours
Carry a small towel for use at onsen (hot spring) facilities; many do not provide them at day-use baths
Fukui locals take pride in their traditional crafts — when visiting studios, express genuine interest rather than treating items as tourist novelties
Do's and don'ts
Quick guide to local norms.
Do
- Do carry cash — most traditional businesses in Fukui are cash-only
- Do purchase locally crafted goods directly from the artisans at craft village studios
- Do try oroshi soba, sauce katsu don, and goma-dofu — these are genuine local specialties rather than tourist adaptations
- Do bow slightly when greeting shopkeepers and accommodation staff
- Do use both hands when presenting or receiving business cards, gifts, or change at counters
Don't
- Do not eat or drink while walking in public spaces — find a bench or designated rest area
- Do not speak loudly on mobile phones on trains — use silent mode and step to the carriage connection area if a call is necessary
- Do not photograph monks without permission at Eiheiji Temple
- Do not discard rubbish in the street — public bins are rare; use the bin at the nearest convenience store
- Do not enter tatami-floored areas with footwear — look for the step-up threshold as the boundary
Etiquette by setting
How to navigate everyday situations.
Useful phrases
A few words go a long way.
Arigatou gozaimasu
Thank you very much
Sumimasen
Excuse me / I'm sorry (for attention or apology)
Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?
Do you speak English?
Kore wa ikura desu ka?
How much does this cost?
Eki wa doko desu ka?
Where is the station?
Osusume wa nan desu ka?
What do you recommend?
Okaikei onegaishimasu
The bill please
Itadakimasu
Said before eating (expression of gratitude for the meal)
Religion & spirituality
Understanding faith in Fukui.
Items:
- Name
- Soto Zen Buddhism
- Description
- Eiheiji Temple, founded in 1244 by Dogen Zenji, is one of the two head temples of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism and remains an active training monastery. Visitors are welcome in designated areas. The temple observes a strict daily schedule of zazen (seated meditation), meals in silence, and manual labour as spiritual practice.
- Name
- Shinto Shrines
- Description
- Numerous Shinto shrines dot the prefecture. Kehi Shrine in Tsuruga is one of the three great shrines of the Hokuriku region and is open daily. Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once at the main hall when making an offering.
- Name
- General Buddhist Influence
- Description
- Obama City has more temples per capita than almost any city in Japan — Buddhist culture is deeply woven into daily life in coastal Fukui. Many households maintain butsudan (home Buddhist altars).