So, I decided to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a weekend and found myself in Fukui Prefecture. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised! You know what? These roadside stations, or michi-no-eki, are like treasure troves of local culture and flavor.
First Stop: Seaside Takanama
Imagine standing by the Sea of Japan with the salty breeze in your hair and the sound of waves crashing against the shore. That’s Seaside Takanama for you. I literally gasped at how beautiful the view was. This place is not just about the scenery, though. It’s packed with fresh seafood, local delicacies, and even a small onsen. I mean, who wouldn’t want to soak in a hot spring with a sea view?
Being a seafood lover, I tried the grilled squid and some local sashimi. The freshness was out of this world! Prices here are quite reasonable—around ¥1,500 for a decent meal, which is about $10 USD. Not bad, right?
The Unexpected Winner: Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama
Now, this was a fun surprise. Dinosaurs in Fukui! The Dinosaur Valley Katsuyama is like stepping into a prehistoric wonderland. They have these life-size dinosaur models and a museum nearby. I felt like a kid again, honestly. The place was bustling with families, and it was infectious—I even found myself buying a dinosaur keychain as a souvenir. Talk about unexpected finds!
Oh, and a quick tip: if you visit in the summer, the heat can be quite intense. Bring a hat or maybe a cute parasol if that’s your thing. Entry to the exhibits is around ¥1,000, so roughly $7 USD. Totally worth it for the dino action!
Wrapping up my Fukui adventure, I have to say, these roadside stations are perfect for a quick escape. They’re not just pit stops; they’re experiences. If you’re ever in Fukui, give these places a shot. I mean, who knew road trips could be this exciting? If it sounds fun, go for it—I’d love to hear what you think.
