Things To Do
in Awara
Awara is a spa town in Fukui Prefecture known for its relaxing hot springs and traditional inns. It sits in a scenic basin with easy access to nature and coastal views along the Sea of Japan. The town blends historic temples, tranquil streets, and a relaxed pace that’s perfect for unwinding.
Visitors come for onsen culture, nearby Hakusan National Park, and regional Fukui seafood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day in Awara by visiting the Awara Onsen area, where you can soak in the natural hot springs. The soothing waters will rejuvenate you, allowing you to appreciate the serene landscape. As the sun rises, enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local inn featuring traditional Japanese cuisine.
Stroll through the historic streets of Awara, visiting the charming shops and tea houses that line the roads. Stop by the Awara Onsen Museum to learn about the town's rich history and the significance of its hot springs. Savor lunch at a quaint café, trying a bowl of local ramen or sushi made with fresh ingredients.
As the sun sets, experience the tranquil atmosphere of the onsen by indulging in a relaxing soak. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner, where each dish is a work of art, highlighting seasonal ingredients. Finish your evening with a walk under the stars, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Start your morning with a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, featuring grilled fish, rice, and miso soup. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk in the surrounding gardens, appreciating the meticulously maintained landscapes. The morning tranquility is perfect for meditation or quiet reflection before the day's activities.
Participate in a tea ceremony workshop to learn about this ancient art and its significance in Japanese culture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in seasonal dishes, such as soba noodles. Spend the afternoon exploring the local craft shops, where you can find unique handmade souvenirs.
In the evening, treat yourself to another onsen experience in a different facility to compare the different mineral compositions. Relish a comforting dinner, perhaps trying the local specialty of seafood hot pot. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the river, where you can enjoy the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transportation (day pass) | $5-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🍣Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and fewer crowds than major cities
- Excellent onsen culture and traditional inns
- Proximity to Hakusan National Park and coastline
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- English may be less common outside tourist spots
- Smaller choice of high-end shopping and museums
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is it?
- "お願いします" - Please / Thank you (polite request)
Places to Visit in Awara
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic basalt columns rising from the Sea of Japan, especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
One of Japan's oldest surviving castles with moats and traditional gardens, perfect for spring blossoms or autumn foliage.
A serene Zen temple complex with cedar gates, stone paths, and tranquil courtyards.
Lined with wooden ryokan and lanterns; ideal for moody, warm-toned street photography.
A calm riverside route with seasonal trees and quaint bridge views.
Food in Awara
Awara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pressed or rolled mackerel sushi, a Fukui specialty commonly found at markets and sushi spots.
Must-Try!
Rice bowls topped with fresh local seafood such as sashimi, crab, and shrimp.
A warming simmered dish of vegetables and fish, often enjoyed in cozy local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls around the onsen district offering snacks like grilled seafood, wagashi, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep voices down in public places and on trains; avoid loud conversations and phone calls.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and some temples; use provided slippers.
Wash before entering the bath; do not wear swimsuits; tattoos may be restricted in some onsen; follow posted rules.
Use two hands when giving or receiving items and show appreciation with a polite bow.
Safety
Tipping in Awara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is standard and included in prices. If you wish to show appreciation, a polite thank-you is usually sufficient.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops. Credit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and many stores; mobile payments and IC cards are increasingly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temps and cherry blossoms; great for temple gardens and castle grounds. Pack light layers and an umbrella for occasional showers.
Warm to hot days with humidity; occasional rain. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy coastal breezes by the sea.
Crisp air and brilliant fall foliage; ideal for hikes and photography in parks and castle grounds.
Cold with possible snowfall; onsen towns glow with steam against white landscapes. Bring warm layers and waterproof footwear.
Awara at Night
Hiking in Awara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned high-altitude hike with alpine scenery; appropriate for experienced hikers and prepared day-trippers.
Gentle riverside and woodland paths ideal for easy days outdoors and family-friendly walks.
Nearby forested trails with varying difficulty, accessible by car or local transit for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Awara by plane.
Regional gateway serving the Ishikawa region; about 60-90 minutes by train or bus to Awara.
Smaller regional airport; typically longer transfer to Awara but useful for domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
An aging population common in smaller Japanese towns.
Strong community ties with a slower pace of life.
Seasonal visitors seeking onsen experiences and natural scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local clubs and school teams centered around regional facilities.
Community players and youth leagues are common throughout Fukui.
Skiing and snowboarding are available in nearby mountains during the winter season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options can be limited; look for vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and rice bowls. If needed, ask for no dashi and plan ahead with staff.