How to Access Fukui from Osaka! Complete Access Guide

• [text_no_translate=Table of Contents]
• Let's Visit Fukui from Osaka! 
• How to Access Fukui 
• Fast and Convenient! Limited Express Train “Thunderbird”
• Using Local Trains: JR lines
• Hokuriku Bullet Train Extension in Spring 2024
• Using Express Buses 
• Recommended for Drive Lovers! Using Rental Cars 
• Fukui's Must Visit Locations 
• Enjoy your trip to Fukui!

Let's Visit Fukui from Osaka! 

Fukui Prefecture is a prefecture located in the Hokuriku region of Japan, along the Sea of ​​Japan. The Hokuriku Shinkansen is currently attracting attention as it opened from Kanazawa to Fukui/Tsuruga in the spring of 2024. Fukui is home to stunning sightseeing spots, renowned both in Japan and internationally, along with an abundance of local gourmet delights.

There are three main ways to travel t from Osaka to Fukui: by train, bus, or car. However, many travelers are not sure about the travel time and cost of each option. Additionally, once the Shinkansen service begins, transferring from limited express trains will be necessary.

In this guide , we will introduce the best way to get to Fukui from Osaka, including transportation options and transfer tips for the new Shinkansen line. Find the option that suits you and enjoy all Fukui has to offer!

How to Access Fukui 

There are three main ways to travel from Osaka to Fukui:

From Osaka Station to Fukui Station (one-way)

◆Train
[Travel Time] Approx. 1 hour 54 minutes ~
Fare： 5,610 yen~

◆Highway bus
[Travel Time] Approx.3 hours 30 minutes ~
Fare： 3,700 yen

◆Private car
[Travel Time] Approx. 2 hours 55 minutes ~
Fare： 6,330 yen + gasoline fee

While Fukui Prefecture does have Fukui Airport, it currently has no scheduled flights, making it an unsuitable option for transportation.

Fast and Convenient! Limited Express Train “Thunderbird”

The fastest way to travel from Osaka to Fukui is by taking the limited express train Thunderbird.

Osaka - Fukui (one-way)

[Travel Time] Approx. 1 hour 54 minutes

[Fare] 3,410 yen (passenger ticket) + 2,200 yen (limited express ticket) = 5,610 yen

◆For reserved seats

[Fare] 3,410 yen (ticket) + 2,930 yen (limited express reserved seat) = 6,340 yen

NOTE : Additional charges apply for Green Car seats.

Why Choose Thunderbird?
Although Thunderbird is pricier than other options, it is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Fukui, as it requires no transfers.

Round-Trip Tip: If you're planning a return trip, purchasing a round-trip ticket is more cost-effective.

Where to Buy Tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at:
１. JR Stations
 "Midori no Madoguchi" (Ticket Office) or "Midori no Ticket Vending Machine"
２. Online Reservations
 JR West’s "e5489" service

Using a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
If you're visiting Japan as a tourist and have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), we highly recommend using it! This pass allows unlimited travel on JR lines, including the Shinkansen, helping you save on transportation costs.

Note for JR Pass Holders:
Allowed: Hikari & Kodama Shinkansen
Not Allowed: Nozomi Shinkansen

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) Complete Guide

Using Local Trains: JR lines

If you don't mind a longer travel time and want to save money, taking local trains is a budget-friendly option.

Osaka - Fukui (one-way)

[Travel Time] Approx. 3 hours 18 minutes

[Fare] 3,410 yen

To reach Fukui, take a rapid train from Osaka to Tsuruga, then transfer to a local train.

Osaka ⇒ (Yamashina) ⇒ (Omi Shiotsu) ⇒ Tsuruga ⇒ Fukui

Previously, traveling by local train required two transfers, but with the introduction of rapid trains, you now only need to change once at Tsuruga. If there are no delays, this option can be faster than the express bus.

Budget Tip:
If you're traveling during the Seishun 18 Kippu sale period, you can enjoy unlimited rides on JR local trains across Japan. This ticket is perfect for those who want to explore at a lower cost.

Where to Buy Tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at:
JR Stations
 "Midori no Madoguchi" (Ticket Office) or "Midori Ticket Vending Machine"
Same Process as buying limited express train tickets

Hokuriku Bullet Train Extension in Spring 2024

In the spring of 2024, the Hokuriku Shinkansen was extended to Tsuruga Station in Fukui Prefecture. As a result, conventional and limited express trains from Osaka terminate at Tsuruga Station.

To continue from Tsuruga to Fukui, travelers must:
1. Transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen or
2. Use the new "Happi Line Fukui," which replaces the JR Hokuriku Main Line

Travel Time & Cost (After the Extension)

New Estimated Travel Time:
Approx. 1 hour 47 minutes (including a 10-minute transfer)
Fare Increase: +600 yen, making the total 6,210 yen

Even though the fare will rise slightly, discounts on round-trip tickets are expected, making it more affordable than current options. The shorter travel time will make Fukui even more accessible from Osaka!

Using Express Buses 

If you have extra time and want to save money, taking an express bus operated by JR West Bus is a great option.

Osaka - Fukui (one-way)

[Travel Time] Approx. 4 hours 33 minutes

[Price]
Weekdays/1900 yen to 2700 yen, Holidays/2500 yen to 3300 yen

*Fares vary depending on the boarding date and purchase timing.

Why Take the Bus?
While the fare is similar to local trains, express buses offer a more relaxed journey, with less concern about train delays affecting your arrival time.

Where to Buy Bus Tickets?
・On the day of travel: Purchase at any West Japan JR Bus counter

・Convenience Stores: Buy from multimedia terminals at Lawson and Ministop

・Online & Phone Reservations: Secure your seat in advance through the West Japan JR Bus reservation site or telephone reservation center

Reservation Tip:
Express buses can sell out, so we highly recommend booking in advance to guarantee a seat!

Recommended for Drive Lovers! Using Rental Cars 

If you prefer the freedom of driving, renting a car is a fantastic option. We recommend taking the expressway, as it offers a smoother and faster journey compared to local roads.

Click here for the route

◆Osaka - Fukui (one-way)

[Travel Time] Approx. 2 hours 55 minutes

[Toll Fare] 6,330 yen (Hanshin Route 11 Ikeda Line 890 yen + Meishin Expressway - Hokuriku Expressway 5,440 yen)

*Prices vary depending on ETC and holiday discounts.

*Gasoline costs are charged separately.

Total Distance: Approx. 231.5km

◆Driving Routeu

1.6km (approx. 5 minutes) from Osaka Station to Fukushima IC (Hanshin Route 11 Ikeda Line) ⇒ Fukushima IC ⇒ Meishin Expressway

⇒ Hokuriku Expressway ⇒ Fukui IC ⇒ 5.2km from Fukui IC to Fukui Station (about 13 minutes)

With trains and buses, you always have to be aware of specific times, but with a car, you can go at your own pace and it's easier to carry around if you have a lot of baggage. For those who don't want to be pressed for time or have a lot of luggage, we recommend traveling by car, although it may be more time consuming and expensive.

Also, if you are traveling with a large group of people, such as a family, it may be cheaper to travel by car.

Fukui's Must Visit Locations 

1. Tojinbo

Tojinbo, located in Mikuni-cho, Sakai City, is one of Japan’s natural monuments.

This rare geological wonder features dramatic cliffs and columnar jointed rock formations, stretching 1 km along the coastline. The rugged cliffs, composed of pyroxene andesite, are so unique that similar formations can only be found in three places worldwide!

A Symbol of Hokuriku’s Natural Beauty, Tojinbo is a must-see for visitors to Fukui.

Tojinbo

913-0064 64-1 Yasujima, Mikuni-cho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture

Tojinbo is a nationally designated scenic spot known for its view of the rough waves of the Sea of ​​Japan crashing against the cliffs. The magnificent cliffs spread out for about 1km. It is said that there are only three places in the world where the extensive columnar joints of dacite (volcanic stone) that form this kind of scenery are extremely valuable geologically. The dazzling blue sky and the Sea of ​​Japan in early summer, the evening view of the sun setting over the Sea of ​​Japan in autumn, and the rough waves and cold wind blowing against the rock surface when snow falls. All of them are wonderful seasonal scenery that shows Tojinbo and the great nature of the Sea of ​​Japan. Along with Ojima, which floats at the tip of Tojinbo, it has been designated as a natural monument of Japan. There are also many traditional souvenir shops and restaurants in the surrounding area.

2. Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Located in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the three largest dinosaur museums in the world.

Inside, you’ll find 44 full-scale dinosaur skeletons on display, along with authentic fossil reproductions—making it an unmissable experience for dinosaur lovers.

Want a hands-on adventure? You can even try fossil excavation in the park on-site! This attraction is perfect for both kids and adults.

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

911-8601 51-11 Terao, Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture

Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture is known nationwide as a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils. Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the world's leading dinosaur museums. The vast, immersive space is filled with exhibits of dinosaur skeletons, fossils, specimens, dioramas, reconstructed models, and more, allowing you to see impressive dinosaurs up close. The area surrounding the museum is also full of experiences such as fossil excavations and play equipment, making it an area that the whole family can enjoy. The Dinosaur Tower, which reopened in July 2023 and appeared in the new small egg hall, is a must-see. In the atrium of the new building, there is a 13m-tall monument called the Dinosaur Tower, which features five species of dinosaurs and one species of bird discovered in Fukui. In addition, the facility has been upgraded to be a facility that can be enjoyed in all seasons, including the impressive ``3-sided Dino Theater'' and the ``Fossil Research Experience'' .

3. Mikata Goko Rainbow Line Summit Park

Mikata Goko (三方五湖) refers to the five lakes that stretch across Mihama Town and Wakasa Town.

At the Rainbow Line Summit Park, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the Mikata Five Lakes and Wakasa Bay.

Why is it called the "Five-Colored Lake"?

Each of the five lakes has a different depth and water quality, creating unique colors—making it a mysterious and stunning natural wonder.

Mikata Five Lakes/Rainbow Line

〒919-1301 18-2-2 Kiyama, Wakasa-cho, Mikatakaminaka-gun, Fukui Prefec...

The five lakes, Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Suga, Lake Kugushi, and Lake Hyuga, which are interspersed among the valleys of the low mountains, are known for their mystical colors. You can enjoy the scenery by driving the 11.2km Rainbow Line that leads to the summit. If you go to the summit using a lift or cable car, you will find the Rainbow Line Summit Park. In the park, there are five terraces such as a footbath and a sofa terrace based on the concept of "a terrace in the sky floating on Mikata Five Lakes". The view of the Mikatagoko Lakes and the Sea of Japan, which can be seen while enjoying drinks and sweets, is highly acclaimed.

4. Eiheiji

The Daihonzan Eiheiji Temple, located in Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida District, is a historic Zen monastery with a legacy spanning over 800 years.

Even today, monks undergo rigorous training here. Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds for a small entrance fee or try Zen meditation and sutra copying for a more immersive experience.

Step into a world of serenity and tradition at Eiheiji Temple.

Eiheiji Temple

5-15 Shihi, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui Prefecture 910-1228

In 1244 (Kangen 2), Zen training dojo was opened by Dogen Zenji. There are more than 70 temple buildings in the precincts of Miyama Yukoku, and among them, the seven halls called "Shichido Garan" (Dharma Hall, Butsuden, Sodo, Kokuin, Sanmon, Toshi, and Bathroom) are pure places where monks train. It is considered a particularly important building. At Eiheiji, many monks are still practicing hard every day, and visitors can see how they are doing.

5. Kehi Shrine

Located in Tsuruga City, Kehi Shrine was founded in 702 AD and is home to one of Japan’s three great torii gates.

A Grand Welcome:The shrine’s massive 11-meter torii gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property, greets visitors at the entrance.

A Famous Power Spot:
Kehi Shrine is known for its spiritual energy, and many visitors come to experience the sacred atmosphere of its historic grounds.

Kehi Shrine

11-68 Akebonocho, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture 914-0075

Founded in 702 AD, Kehi Jingu Shrine in Tsuruga City is one of the three major torii gates in Japan and welcomes you with its 11-meter-tall torii designated as an important cultural property. It is also famous as a power spot, and there are many places full of energy in the precincts of the shrine.

Enjoy your trip to Fukui!

In this guide, we’ve introduced the best ways to travel from Osaka to Fukui and some must-visit destinations.

We hope this article helps you find the best transportation method for your journey. Have a safe and wonderful trip to Fukui!