Tsuruga Port, Fukui Prefecture
@thanyarat07

View on the Mikata Five Lakes
@makafushigi

Julien Giry, your guide for the excursion
@Julien Giry

Relaxation area at the top of the Rainbow Line
@Clément Gougeon

Traditional kaiseki dinner at the minshuku
@Clément Gougeon

View on the Mikata Five Lakes from the top of the Rainbow Line
@Clément Gougeon

Abandoned house, Hayase, Fukui Prefecture
@Clément Gougeon

Beach, Mihama, Fukui Prefecture
@Clément Gougeon

Guided Getaway to the Five Lakes Region

Duration : 2 days
Locations : Five Lakes of Mikata, Fukui

This itinerary whisks you away to the Mikata Five Lakes, a breathtaking cluster nestled in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. Over two days, you'll be immersed in nature's beauty, explore hidden cultural gems, and discover the region's unique charm.

Your expert guide, Julien, brings Japan Experience's knowledge to life. Having explored Japan extensively, he fell in love with this area and decided to call it home. With Julien's insider tips and deep understanding of the region, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

From captivating landscapes and cultural treasures to delectable cuisine, this adventure caters to nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Get ready to discover the magic of the Mikata Five Lakes!

2 days itinerary throughout the Five Lakes of Mikata

Departure city : Kyoto or Kanazawa
Hayase
Tsuruga
Return city : Kyoto or Kanazawa

Please find detailed itinerary information below.

Please note that for this excursion, the choice of starting and ending in either Kyoto or Kanazawa is yours to make! You can also pick one city, Kyoto or Kanazawa, for both arrival and departure.

Why choose this excursion to Japan ?

Witness the stunning scenery of the Mikata Five Lakes, each with unique hues.
Explore hidden cultural treasures beyond the typical tourist path.
Savor the unique flavours of Fukui Prefecture, from fresh lake fish to regional specialties.
Benefit from Julien's extensive knowledge and passion for the region.
Many recommendations available in your digital travel guidebook.

Your excursion in detail

Itinerary

Day 1 : Unveiling a less travelled Japan

Depart from Kyoto or Kanazawa and head to Tsuruga, a charming city nestled in Fukui Prefecture. Your expert guide, Julien, will greet you at the station and whisk you away to your traditional Japanese accommodation for the night.
Before indulging in a delectable dinner showcasing the region's freshest ingredients, prepare to be captivated by the hidden gem of Hayase. Alongside Julien, you'll explore this quaint town, uncovering its unique charm. From abandoned houses whispering stories of the past to a small temple radiating tranquility, Hayase offers a glimpse into a Japan less travelled.
Returning to your accommodation, unwind and savor a traditional Japanese dinner prepared with meticulous care. As you enjoy your meal, soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the lakeside.
Day 2 : The Mikata Five Lakes from above

Get ready for a day filled with stunning sights and local experiences! Julien will be behind the wheel as you embark on a scenic drive along the Rainbow Line. This toll road winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views of all five Mikata Lakes from a bird's-eye perspective.
Next, you will head back to Hayase for a visit to a local brewery, a unique cultural experience. Your adventure continues with a drive to the refreshing city of Mihama, an easy access to the Wakasa Bay. Take a moment to soak up the sunshine and breathe in the fresh air.
After a full day of exploration, we'll return to Tsuruga. To honor a unique piece of local history, Julien will take you to visit the tombs of two French marines whose bodies were found near the city.
Finally, Julien will take you back to Tsuruga station where you'll catch your train to your next destination : Kyoto or Kanazawa.

Included in your self-guided excursion

Accommodation
- 1 night in traditional Japanese accommodation "minshuku"
The base rate includes a twin room.
Transportation
- JR Thunderbird tickets from Kyoto > to Tsuruga, seats reserved in standard class
- Hokuriku Shinkansen tickets from Tsuruga > to Kanazawa, seats reserved in standard class
Visit & meals
- Traditional dinner (featuring the freshest fish!) and breakfast included at the minshuku
- Guided tour of Hayase, Tsuruga and its surroundings

Other services

Other services
- 7/7 telephone assistance in English and Japanese bilingual
- Complete digital travel diary before your departure
Not included in the price of your excursion
- Optional insurance
- Personal expenses, including lunches (you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack)
- Entrance fees to museums, gardens or temples
- Access to internet (Pocket WiFi or SIM card)
- Everything not included in the "Included in your excursion" section

More information about your trip

Your excursion:

- The prices shown on this page may vary according to the Japanese ¥ exchange rate.

- Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

- Children aged 3 and over are accepted. Child rates available for children ages 3 to 11 included.

- Pets are not accepted.

- This program may be subject to changes due to imperatives such as weather conditions or other force majeure events. Please note that due to the current situation, all mentioned information is subject to change or adaptation.

- In order to benefit from an internet connection, book a Pocket WiFi or SIM card with Japan Experience.

- This tour must be booked at least 45 days before the start date of the tour.

- Your travel documents will be sent to you by email before your departure.

Your accommodation:

- Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the town and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the cost of the reservation. It generally amounts to ¥200/night/person (about €1.60) but may be a little higher in 4-star hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception.

- Single room: People travelling alone and/or wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. Please note that a single room supplement for an order of more than 2 people will be applied in all accommodation except ryokans (3 and 4*). As this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people.

- 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, you will be allocated a triple room.

- Hotel names: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled.

- Stay in a minshuku: A minshuku is a type of Japanese accommodation that can be described as a family-run bed and breakfast. Rooms in a minshuku often feature tatami flooring and futon bedding instead of beds. In most minshuku, the bathroom facilities, including the toilet and shower, are shared among guests. Some minshuku offer breakfast or even dinner, often featuring local ingredients and homemade dishes. Overall, a minshuku is a great choice for travellers who want to experience Japanese culture and hospitality firsthand, in a comfortable and affordable setting.

Your transport:

- JR Thunderbird tickets from Kyoto > to Tsuruga, seats reserved in standard class.

- Hokuriku Shinkansen tickets from Tsuruga > to Kanazawa, seats reserved in standard class.

Your meals:

- Traditional dinner and breakfast included at the minshuku.

- For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel diary.