Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos! We are the Minamiechizen Town Tourism Federation. Minamiechizen Town in Nanjo District, Fukui Prefecture, sits almost at the geographic center of Fukui Prefecture. The town blends sea, mountains, and countryside, and its history and culture are still alive. Formed in 2005 by the merger of the former Nanjo Town, Imajo Town, and Kono Village, the area preserves many distinctive local charms. Along the coast you can enjoy sweeping views of the Sea of Japan, while inland the satoyama landscape unfolds with mountains and clear streams. Minamiechizen Town is also known for preserving a picture of traditional Japan, where seasonal nature and everyday life live in harmony. In the peaceful rice fields visitors can try agricultural experiences such as rice planting and harvesting, which are popular with many tourists. Access to Minamiechizen Town, Fukui Prefecture By car it takes about five minutes from the Hokuriku Expressway’s Nanjo Smart Interchange, making access from the highway extremely convenient. You can also use the JR Hokuriku Main Line at Imajo Station and Nanjou Station, making rail travel from the Kansai and Chukyo regions comfortable. From Nagoya or Osaka it takes about two to three hours by car or train, so a day trip is ideal. At Roadside Station Minamiechizen Sankairi you can rent electric bicycles, making a relaxed cycling tour of Minamiechizen Town a popular option. About Minamiechizen Town, Fukui Prefecture Minamiechizen Town belongs to Nanjo District, Fukui Prefecture. Its area is about 344 square kilometers and its population is around 9,000 (as of May 2025), offering rich nature and a tranquil lifestyle. Stretching north to south, the town ranges from coastal settlements to mountain farming villages, each with distinct cultures and customs. Local residents actively engage in tourism, agriculture, and crafts, drawing attention from many visitors. Historical background of Minamiechizen Town, Fukui Prefecture From ancient through medieval and early modern times, Minamiechizen Town developed as an important hub for transportation and logistics. The Imajo area prospered as a post town on the Hokkokukaido during the Edo period, welcoming many travelers and merchants. Stone-paved streets and latticed houses remain, recalling the bustle of those days. The Kono area flourished as a port for Kitamae ships plying the Sea of Japan, and buildings that reflect the wealthy merchants’ lifestyles still stand. These historical assets are preserved today as the town’s cultural properties. Popular sightseeing spots in Minamiechizen Town, Fukui Prefecture Hanahasu Park In summer about 130 varieties of lotus bloom, creating a serene and elegant scene. The park features walking paths, an observation deck, and rest areas, and the annual Hasu Festival draws many visitors. You can also enjoy lotus-themed gourmet items and local specialties. Imajo-shuku Post Town This post town preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period. Stone-paved streets and white-walled houses evoke history and offer a peaceful ambiance. Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, it has high cultural value. Hands-on experiences like soba noodle making and guided town walks are available. Nearby you will find museums, cafés, and accommodations in renovated traditional houses where you can enjoy a refined stay soaked in history. Kitamae Ship Owner's House Ukonke The Ukonke residence, once home to a wealthy Kitamae ship merchant in the Edo period, is open to the public. Inside, exhibits recreate merchant life and present materials about historic trade routes, creating a must-see space for history enthusiasts. Yashaga-ike This mountain lake carries a mysterious legend and sits at the end of a nature-rich trekking route. Located at about 1,100 meters elevation, the lake is clear and the trail is designed so even beginner hikers can enjoy it. Fresh spring greenery and autumn foliage are beautiful, offering different scenery each season. The trail is well maintained, and lookout spots along the way offer panoramic views of Echizen’s mountain ranges. Roadside station in Minamiechizen Town Roadside Station Minamiechizen Sankairi represents the town and is a large complex combining a tourist information center, local product shops, restaurants, and rest areas. Conveniently accessible from both the expressway and local roads, the station includes an indoor kids’ area, a dog run, and EV charging stations, and is popular with many visitors. Fresh vegetables and fruits from local farms and Minamiechizen-specific souvenirs are also on sale. Local specialties and gourmet foods of Minamiechizen Town Imajo Soba (oroshi soba) A classic Fukui specialty. Served with grated daikon and broth, its light, refreshing flavor is perfect for hot seasons. Beni-sashi Ume A specialty plum grown in the Kono area, it balances sweet and tart flavors and is popular as umeboshi or plum wine and other processed products. Harvest experiences and plum-based cooking classes are held, and these activities are valued as food education. Events and festivals in Minamiechizen Town Kono Ume Festival Held every June, this local festival celebrates the plum harvest. You can enjoy plum-picking experiences and purchases of local processed goods, and food trucks also set up, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Imajo Soba Festival A celebration of soba where soba shops from inside and outside the town serve their dishes so visitors can compare Imajo Soba’s variety of flavors. Soba-making demonstrations and workshops introduce and promote the town’s food culture. Kono Summer Festival Typically held in late July at Korakujo Beach, this festival is a summer highlight for Minamiechizen Town. The finale lights up the night sky and sea with around 5,600 fireworks, drawing many visitors. Stalls and festival games line the area, making it a perfect event for summer memories. Tourist information for Minamiechizen Town, Fukui Prefecture Minamiechizen Town charms visitors with its historic streets and abundant nature. We will continue to share plenty of information that brings the town’s seasonal landscapes, rooted food culture, and warm local hospitality to life, so you can carry Minamiechizen Town with you into tomorrow! Thank you very much!!