Hello, Cool Japan Video viewers! This is the Minami-Echizen Town Tourism Association from Fukui Prefecture. Minami-Echizen Town in Nanjo District, Fukui Prefecture sits almost at the center of Fukui Prefecture. The town blends sea, mountains, and countryside, and its history and culture thrive here. Formed in 2005 by the merger of the former Nanjo Town, Imajo Town, and Kono Village, Minami-Echizen preserves the distinct character and attractions of each area. A beautiful Sea of Japan coastline unfolds along the shore, while inland you can enjoy satoyama countryside shaped by mountains and clear streams! Minami-Echizen is also known for preserving Japan’s traditional rural landscapes, where you can experience a way of life in harmony with nature that changes with the seasons. In the tranquil rice fields, agricultural experiences like rice planting and harvesting are popular and delight many visitors. Access to Minami-Echizen Town, Fukui Prefecture By car, the town is about a 5-minute drive from the Hokuriku Expressway’s Nanjo Smart Interchange, making highway access very convenient. You can also use the JR Hokuriku Main Line via Imajo Station and nanjou station, which makes travel comfortable from the Kansai and Chukyo areas. From Nagoya or Osaka, it takes about two to three hours by car or train, making day trips easy. At Roadside Station Minamiechizen Sankairi, electric rental bicycles are available, making a relaxed cycling tour of Minami-Echizen a popular way to sightsee. About Minami-Echizen Town, Fukui Prefecture Minami-Echizen belongs to Nanjo District in Fukui Prefecture, covers about 344 square kilometers, and has a population of around 9,000 people (as of May 2025). The town offers abundant nature and a peaceful lifestyle. Stretching north to south, Minami-Echizen ranges from coastal settlements to mountain farming villages, each with its own culture and customs. Local residents are active in tourism, agriculture, and crafts, attracting attention from many visitors. Historical background of Minami-Echizen Town From ancient to medieval and early modern times, Minami-Echizen developed as a key hub for transportation and logistics. During the Edo period, the Imajo area prospered as a post town on the Hokkokukaido, welcoming many travelers and merchants. Stone-paved roads and latticed houses still remain, evoking the bustle of those days. The Kono area flourished as a port for Kitamae ships traveling the Sea of Japan, and buildings that reflect the lifestyle of wealthy merchants still stand. These historical assets are preserved today as the town’s cultural properties. Popular sightseeing spots in Minami-Echizen Town Hanahasu park In summer about 130 varieties of lotus blossom, creating a quiet, elegant scene. The park has walking paths, an observation deck, and rest areas, and the annual Hasu Festival draws many visitors. You can also enjoy lotus-based foods and local specialties. Imajo-shuku Post Town A post town that preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period. Stone-paved streets and white-walled houses convey a historic mood and a calm ambiance. The area is highly valued as cultural heritage and is designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Hands-on activities like soba noodle making and guided town walks are available. Nearby you’ll find museums, cafes, and lodging housed in traditional houses, offering a refined time steeped in history. Kitamae Ship Owner's House Ukonke The residence of the Ukonke family, wealthy Kitamae ship merchants of the Edo period, is open to the public. Inside, exhibits recreate merchant life and display materials about historic trade routes—an irresistible space for history enthusiasts. Yashaga-ike A mountain pond steeped in mysterious legend, located along a nature-rich trekking route. Sitting at about 1,100 meters elevation, the pond is remarkably clear and the trail is suitable even for beginner hikers. Fresh spring greenery and autumn foliage are beautiful, offering different scenery each season. The trail is maintained, and viewing spots along the way offer sweeping views of the Echizen mountain ranges. Roadside Station in Minami-Echizen Town Roadside Station Minamiechizen Sankairi is a large complex combining a tourist information center, product shops, a restaurant, and rest areas. Convenient from both the expressway and local roads, the facility includes an indoor kids’ area, a dog run, and EV charging stations, and is beloved by many visitors. Fresh vegetables and fruits supplied by local farmers and unique local souvenirs are on offer. Local specialties and gourmet foods of Minami-Echizen Town Imajo soba (oroshi soba) A classic Fukui specialty. Served with grated daikon and broth, it has a refreshing flavor that’s perfect even in hot weather. blushed plum A specialty plum grown in the Kono area, offering a pleasing balance of tartness and sweetness. Processed products like umeboshi and plum wine are popular. Harvest experiences and plum-based cooking classes are also offered, valued as part of food education. Events and festivals in Minami-Echizen Town Kono Ume Festival Held every June, this local event celebrates the plum harvest. Visitors can enjoy fruit-picking experiences and local processed goods for sale; food trucks also appear, making it a family-friendly event. Imajo Soba Festival A soba celebration where soba shops from inside and outside the town set up stalls so visitors can compare the diverse flavors of Imajo soba. Soba-making demonstrations and soba workshops promote the appeal of this food culture. Kono Summer Festival Held annually in late July at Korakujo Beach, this summer tradition of Minami-Echizen Town features a finale of about 5,600 fireworks lighting the night sky and sea surface, drawing many visitors. Street stalls and festival games line the area, making it ideal for summer memories. Tourist information for Minami-Echizen Town, Fukui Prefecture Minami-Echizen is a town of historic streets and rich nature. We will continue to share information full of charm that brings you the town’s seasonal scenery, rooted food culture, and warm local hospitality—something that can carry you into tomorrow! Thank you very much!