Things to do in Echizen

Nishiyama Park is located at 3 Sakura-cho, Sabae-shi, Fukui Prefecture 916-0027. Nishiyama Park is a great attraction in Sabae. This park is connected to the mountain and is great for both experienced joggers and all the adventurists like us. There is a small free zoo with monkeys, smaller pandas and birds. A great half day trip with great value.

Chose to visit the Mount Fuji Instagram-famous spots on Trip.com's recommendation, and I couldn't have asked for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience. The itinerary included memorable locations such as Arakurayama Sengen Park, Hikawa Clock Shop, Oshino Hakkai, Kawaguchiko Lawson, and Lake Kawaguchi Oishi Park—each offering its own breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. Our tour guide (Hikari) truly made the trip special: not only was he friendly, but he was also impressively patient throughout the day, making sure everyone felt comfortable and had enough time to enjoy each spot. The pace of the tour was just right, allowing for leisurely sightseeing and ample opportunities for taking photos—perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments!If you're considering this day trip, I recommend bringing your camera and a light jacket, as weather around Mt. Fuji can change. The service from Trip.com was smooth and easy, making the whole experience stress-free.

The castle is must a visit. Purchasing tickets from Trip ahead made the visit very convenient. We don't need to queue and we entered the castle immediately.

Довольно неплохая смотровая площадка с интересной архитектурой. Будьте готовы к очередям в предзакатное/ закатное время и к тому, что выход из здания занимает даже больше времени, чем вход в эти часы. В целом довольны посещением.

Lake Kawaguchi is a must-see when visiting, especially for those few days. I saw Mount Fuji from various angles every day. Photos of Mount Fuji are best taken on a clear day; otherwise, you might not be able to get a good shot.

Fushimi Inari Taisha was a magical place. So beautiful for pictures. We went early evening before it got dark and it was perfect as not too many people. Highly recommended in Kyoto.

Having just recovered from a prolonged illness, I was so weak I could barely walk. The few days I spent at this hotel gradually restored my energy and spirit. It allows you to shed your fatigue and let your soul find poetic peace in its tranquility. All the lighting was soft and warm, not too bright to make you dizzy; the bed's firmness was just right to support your back, preventing soreness after lying down for a while; the meals were warm, easily digestible congee and side dishes; even the air had a mild scent, not irritating my sensitive respiratory tract. Every day I leisurely strolled in the courtyard, watching the wildflowers slowly bloom in the corner, sitting under the eaves basking in the sun, even my steps were light. There was no need to rush my recovery, no need to force myself to get better quickly. I stole a half-day of leisure, finding a long-lost sense of ease and freedom. Those few days I lived entirely at my own pace, without any pressure or urging, and my recovery was much faster than I had expected.

came here because of the slide, it’s popular so it took quite a long time to queue for the slide, but it was fun, just took seconds from top to bottom. there were also some shops around, you could find some to eat and some to buy for souvenir, worth spending a day there to have fun.

As the morning light pierces the mist over Lake Biwa, you'll understand why the Japanese consider it the "Lake of Life." As Japan's largest freshwater lake, its waters serve not only as a backup for Kyoto Prefecture but also as a living reservoir of cultural genealogy. Hikone Castle, reflected in the mirror-like waters of the early morning, its 400-year-old castle tower blending with the shimmering waters to create a breathtaking spectacle. Take a pontoon boat to Takebushima Island, where the bronze torii gates gleam in the sunlight. The Tang-style architecture of Hogon-ji Temple speaks of its cultural ties to China's Tang Dynasty. The lakeside bike path is the perfect way to explore. The 70-kilometer route connects reed marshes, vineyards, and century-old shops. Passing through the white-walled earthenware buildings of Omi Hachiman Water Village, it's like stepping into an Edo-era ukiyo-e painting. The gustatory memories are equally unforgettable. Omi beef sushi melts in your mouth, while sushi made with biwa catfish has a refreshing sweetness. The local wines from Lake Country Winery are even more mellow when savored against the setting sun. The most unforgettable moment was meeting a local elder on the lake's west beach. Pointing across the water, he said, "When I was a child, my father took me to those floating islands to pick mulberries. The water is still this clear." The magic of Lake Biwa lies not only in its scenery but also in its living ecological epic. From the migratory birds of spring and autumn to the snowflakes of winter, the cycle of seasons showcases the wisdom of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature. When the last rays of sunlight cast a golden path across the lake, you will understand why these waters have nurtured the essence of Japanese traditions such as the tea ceremony and haiku—they teach us how to find eternal beauty in the balance between movement and stillness. With their vastness and tranquility, these waters invite every visitor to find inner peace. Perhaps this is Lake Biwa's most moving travel gift.

There aren't many tourists, so it's recommended to reach the top an hour before sunset so you can get a good shot of the sunset. The rooftop has full glass windows so you can see Osaka Castle from afar. You can also buy a drink and find a seat indoors to slowly experience the sky garden.