A town rich in nature and water! Introducing 8 sightseeing spots in Wakasa Town

Wakasa Town is located in Mikata-Kaminaka District, Fukui Prefecture. Wakasa Bay, also part of Wakasa Town and facing the Sea of Japan, is known for its ria coastline. It is also home to many nature-rich, water-related tourist spots such as the precious wetland “Mikata Goko” registered under the Ramsar Convention, and the “Uriwari Falls,” which is selected among Japan’s Top 100 Exquisite Waters. Let’s take a look at some recommended sightseeing spots in Wakasa Town.

1. Rainbow Line Summit Park

Rainbow Line Summit Park is a breathtaking sightseeing spot in Wakasa Town offering a panoramic view of the five-lake cluster, Mikata Goko. Located at the summit of Mt. Baijo, it is considered the best vantage point for Mikata Goko. Situated midway along the Mikata Goko toll road Rainbow Line, it can be reached by cable car from the first or second parking area. Each of the lakes—Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Suga, Lake Kugushi, and Lake Hiruga—has different water types such as seawater, brackish water, and freshwater. On a clear day, they appear in five subtly different colors. Come and witness this spectacular scenery and its five-hued tones.

2. Uriwari Falls

Uriwari Falls is selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Exquisite Waters. The water temperature barely fluctuates year-round, and even in summer the water is cold enough to “split a nail,” which is how it got its name. Located deep in the grounds of Tentokuji Temple in Wakasa Town, the naturally purified water is so famous that visitors come not just from Wakasa Town but also from neighboring prefectures like Shiga and Kyoto. A rare red algae that only grows in Uriwari’s specific water quality and temperature also colors some stones red. The lush green surroundings provide a soothing atmosphere. Be sure to taste the proud pure waters of Wakasa Town.

3. Kumagawa-juku

Kumagawa-juku in Wakasa Town is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It’s a tourist spot where you can enjoy the charming old-town atmosphere. It was once part of the “Saba Kaido” (Mackerel Road) route used to transport mackerel to Kyoto. Delicious local gourmet mackerel sushi is sold in honor of this history. Unlike overcrowded tourist destinations, Kumagawa-juku offers a quiet space to enjoy the historic feel of a post-town. It may not be flashy, but that simplicity is part of its charm. Access is easy—get off at “Wakasa Kumagawa” on the JR Bus Wakae Line.

4. Mikata Stone Kannon

Mikata Stone Kannon is a Kannon hall in Mikata, Wakasa Town. The main deity, also known as the One-Handed Kannon, is said to have been carved overnight into the granite of Mt. Untani by the monk Kukai when he visited the area. The carving remained unfinished when the morning rooster crowed as Kukai was about to sculpt the left hand, hence the missing limb. This rare statue is usually not open to the public but is believed to aid ailments of the limbs, attracting many visitors including athletes. To the left of the main hall is a water spot where you can draw Kannon’s sacred spring water. Just a 5-minute walk from JR Mikata Station, it’s easily accessible.

5. Fukui Prefectural Seaside Nature Center

With the concept of a new space for learning and healing by the sea (umi) and lakes (umi), this center lets you learn about the creatures of Wakasa Bay and Mikata Goko. Visitors can interact with aquatic animals in tanks, try a fish foot spa, or join snorkeling workshops—perfect for both kids and adults. Best of all, admission is free! Since there are no public transportation options nearby, access is by car or taxi. It’s about 20 minutes from Wakasa Mikata IC, 15 minutes from Wakasa Kaminaka IC or Mikata Goko SIC (ETC only), and 15 minutes from JR Mikata Station. There’s free parking, but it’s often crowded, so early visits are recommended.

6. Wakasa Mikata Jomon Museum

Around Mikata Goko, Wakasa had a highly developed Jomon culture. The Wakasa Mikata Jomon Museum lets visitors learn about this ancient culture in an engaging way. The unique building resembles an ancient tomb, and upon entering, you’re transported back to the Jomon period. Artifacts and exhibits clearly explain the lifestyle and technology of the era. The museum also displays a model of the “Suigetsu Lake varves,” sediment layers used as a global standard for archaeological and geological dating. It’s a 25-minute walk or 10-minute rental bike ride from JR Mikata Station, making for a great sightseeing detour.

7. Roadside Station Mikata Goko

Located on the shore of Lake Mikata—one of the Mikata Goko—this roadside station is a must-visit if you’re sightseeing in the area. The general tourist information center provides detailed guidance on the Ramsar-protected Mikata Goko. You can also rent bicycles for exploring the area and shop for various Wakasa Town specialty products. It’s a great place to enjoy your time meaningfully. Accessible by car, it’s about 6 minutes from Wakasa Mikata IC and 12 minutes from Wakasa Kaminaka IC.

8. Mikura Road

The Mikura Road may not be flashy, but it is a small alley rich in nostalgic charm. It is quietly nestled in the middle of Kumagawa-juku in Wakasa Town. It is said to have been named "Mikura Road" because, during the early Edo period, goods such as rice paid as tax were transported from Obama to the storehouses within the grounds of Matsuki Shrine in Kumagawa, Wakasa Town. Along this narrow 500-meter alley remain old houses that echo the spirit of the past. There are no souvenir shops or typical tourist spots here, but that only enhances the serene and calm atmosphere of the place. Be sure to enjoy the nostalgic ambience of Mikura Road.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced some recommended sightseeing spots in Wakasa Town. From the dazzling five-colored waters of Mikata Goko and the ria coastline of Wakasa Bay to ancient ruins from the Jomon period and the legendary One-Handed Kannon said to be carved by Kukai, to the nostalgic post-town Kumagawa-juku and the peaceful Okura Road, Wakasa Town is full of spiritually and culturally rich attractions. If you're visiting Fukui Prefecture, it’s a region you definitely shouldn’t miss.