Eating and Skiing in Fukui: A Perfect Finale to My Japan Trip!
The final event of my Japan trip this time was skiing in Fukui Prefecture! And to make it even better, we stayed overnight.
When people hear “Fukui,” the first thing that often comes to mind is Echizen crab. In recent years, the price of this premium delicacy has skyrocketed—some have even been auctioned for a staggering 3 million yen (over 20,000 USD) per crab! Its reputation and value have certainly grown over time.
When I was a child, an employee at my family’s business moved to Suruga in Fukui after leaving the company. There, he started running a traditional inn that served freshly caught seafood. I lost touch with him over the years, but if he’s still in business, I’d love to visit!
A Feast of Fukui’s Finest
The hotel we stayed at had a buffet filled with Fukui’s local delights—starting with Echizen crab, of course! We also enjoyed locally grown Fukui rice, hand-crafted soba noodles, and pickled shallots (rakkyo), all bursting with regional flavors.
And naturally, there was sake! One of the staff recommended “Ippongi”, a light and fruity sake that was incredibly smooth and easy to drink.
The Delicate Sweetness of Habutae Mochi
Another well-known specialty of Fukui is Habutae Mochi. Although I haven’t tried it myself, this delicate sweet is made from glutinous rice, sugar, and red bean paste, much like other traditional Japanese mochi. What makes it special is its silky smooth texture, reminiscent of high-quality silk. In fact, the original maker of Habutae Mochi was once a textile shop! Given that Fukui has long been a major silk producer, it’s no surprise that they created a mochi with such a glossy, velvety finish.
👉 Learn more here: TasteAtlas – Habutae Mochi
👉 Experience Other Prefectures: Seasonal Delights
A Hidden Gem for Skiing & Hot Springs
The ski resort we visited is still a hidden gem, with very few international visitors. The Sea of Japan side of Fukui gets heavy snowfall in winter, making it perfect for skiing. But what makes the experience even more special is the combination of delicious local cuisine and rejuvenating hot springs, known for their skin-nourishing benefits.
If you’re looking for a unique winter getaway in Japan, Fukui is definitely worth considering!
