Things To Do
in Wakasa
Wakasa is a coastal region in Fukui Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, known for its rugged cliffs and salt-tinged air. The area centers on seafood markets, traditional fishing communities, and scenic bays. Historic shrines, coastal trails, and hot springs offer a relaxed escape from city life.
Visitors come for fresh seafood, quiet villages, and easy day trips to Tojinbo cliffs and nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Wakasa and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can sample fresh seafood delicacies. Take some time to immerse yourself in the coastal scenery as you stroll along the harbor, taking in the fresh sea breeze. Visit the nearby Wakasa History Museum to gain insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Savor a traditional lunch at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying some of the best sushi that the region has to offer. Afterward, take a guided tour of the famous Wakasa Bay, where you can witness the breathtaking views and local wildlife. A visit to the nearby Yamamoto Shoten Sake Brewery will provide insight into the sake brewing process, with tastings included.
Dine at a local izakaya, where you can experience authentic Japanese dining with a variety of small plates to share. Stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy the sunset, capturing stunning photos of the vibrant colors reflecting off the water. End the day at a traditional onsen, soaking in the mineral-rich waters under the stars.
Start your adventure with breakfast at a popular local bakery known for its delicious pastries. Afterward, rent a bike and ride along the stunning coastline, taking in the spectacular views of the sea and surrounding mountains. Stop at scenic viewpoints for photography and to appreciate the natural beauty of Wakasa.
Refuel with a picnic lunch on one of the pristine beaches, enjoying the warm sun and gentle waves. Then, head to the Wakasa Seaside Park for leisurely walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. A visit to the Matsuzaki Tea House allows you to participate in an authentic tea ceremony and learn about the significance of tea culture.
Choose to have dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where the catch of the day is freshly served. Enjoy watching the locals enjoy their evening, and perhaps participate in a seasonal festival if your timing aligns. Conclude your night with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚇Local transport (one-way) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel nightly | $70-150 |
| 🧭Souvenir/market goods | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Quiet, authentic towns with easy day trips
- Affordability compared to major cities
- Relatively uncrowded with tourism
- Accessible nature and cultural heritage sites
- Limited nightlife and shopping options
- Rural transport can be slower
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Fewer international flight connections
- Some areas are best explored by car
- "こんにちは" - Hello/Good day
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I’m sorry
- "お願いします" - Please
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Wakasa
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic basalt columns along the Sea of Japan; best at sunrise or sunset for moody light.
Colorful harbor scenes and boats framed by calm water after dusk.
Panoramic coastal vistas with rugged shoreline and lighthouse silhouettes.
Food in Wakasa
Wakasa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful seafood donburi featuring sashimi from the bay; best found at harbor markets and casual seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Salt-grilled mackerel, a staple of coastal meals; often served with rice, pickles, and miso soup.
Tempura featuring local seafood and seasonal vegetables, light and crisp, commonly enjoyed at family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market where fishermen sell fresh catch directly; try grilled fish on a stick or sashimi bowls.
Small markets near the harbor offering seasonal seafood and snacks; a great place to sample local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In homes and traditional venues, remove shoes; use slippers provided.
No loud talking; bow at torii gates; cleansing ritual at the chozuya; photography may be restricted in sacred spaces.
Say itadakimasu before eating and gochisousama after; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Wakasa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite appreciation is expressed via thanks and a bow.
Cash is widely used in rural Wakasa; major credit cards are increasingly accepted in towns and hotels; electronic payments (IC cards, mobile wallets) are becoming common in larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with cherry blossoms along the coast; good for gentle hikes and temple visits.
Warm to hot and humid; typhoon season can bring rain; enjoy beach walks and seafood markets early.
Pleasant air and colorful foliage in inland forests; perfect for coastal hikes and photography.
Cold and windy with possible snow inland; hot springs and quiet towns provide cozy comfort.
Wakasa at Night
Hiking in Wakasa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal hike with views of the sea and cliffs.
Coastal route to a popular lookout over Wakasa Bay.
Airports
How to reach Wakasa by plane.
Main gateway to Fukui and northern Shizuoka; easier access to Wakasa via rail/bus and car.
Major international and domestic gateway; connected by rail and road to Fukui region; longer transfer time.
Large international hub; from there, shinkansen to Fukui area via Shin-Osaka or Kanazawa connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional occupations and families living along the bays; many are aging but with strong local identity.
Rural-to-suburban communities with tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tourists attracted by seafood, scenery, and culture; language barriers may be present in smaller towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among youth and local clubs; see school fields and community games.
Local teams and pick-up games; common in community parks.
A traditional activity given Wakasa Bay’s rich fishing culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wakasa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in Wakasa mainly as tofu, vegetable tempura, rice bowls, and miso soups; ask for dashi-free broths when avoiding fish-based stock.