Echizen Coast

The Echizen Coast stretches along the Sea of Japan in Fukui Prefecture, forming part of the Echizen-Kaga Kaigan Quasi-National Park. The coastline features dramatic cliffs and rock formations carved by wind and waves over millions of years, including the impressive Kochomon natural sea tunnel and towering columnar basalt formations. From November to March, the area becomes the epicenter of Echizen crab season, when the prized zuwaigani (snow crab) is hauled from the cold waters of the Sea of Japan and served fresh at port-side restaurants. Cape Echizen at the westernmost tip of the coast is surrounded by over 60 hectares of wild narcissus fields, one of Japan's three largest colonies, blooming from December to February. The rugged coastline offers spectacular sunset views over the Sea of Japan year-round.