Experience the “Dinosaur Kingdom” in Fukui, Japan! A one-day itinerary featuring theme trains, XR buses, and a world-class museum.

Japan’s largest dinosaur museum! Take the interactive Dinosaur Train or the immersive XR bus directly to this world-class museum to feel the awe of prehistoric giants up close. Don't miss out on the outdoor fossil excavation experience and themed restaurants.

Did you know that Fukui, Japan, is a world-renowned “treasure trove of dinosaur fossils”? From the moment you step into Fukui Station, giant dinosaur models set the scene, instantly transporting you through time. This is not just a museum visit, but an adventure combining high-tech XR buses, surprise-filled Dinosaur Trains, and outdoor fossil digging. Get ready to follow our lead and explore the “Dinosaur Kingdom” to the fullest!

Fukui Station

Arriving at the area around JR Fukui Station feels like stepping into a dinosaur kingdom! Outside the station, there are 3D murals and moving giant dinosaur models, and you can spot dinosaur figures throughout the first and second floors inside the station as well.

Transportation to the Dinosaur Museum

Dinosaur Train (Reservation Required)

Operating only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, this train requires advanced booking and runs only one round-trip per day. Onboard staff share fun facts about dinosaurs, and there are quiz segments where you might even win dinosaur-related merchandise.

Echizen Railway

In addition to the Dinosaur Train, you can take the Echizen Railway Katsuyama Eiheiji Line to the museum. Enjoy Fukui’s natural scenery along the way, get off at Katsuyama Station, and then transfer to a shuttle bus to reach your destination.

XR Bus

An immersive bus combining AR and VR technology that goes directly to the museum. Just by sitting in your seat, Fukui’s beautiful scenery and dinosaur elements are projected onto the windows, allowing you to be fully immersed in a magical journey all the way there!

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Approximately 80% of all dinosaur fossils in Japan were unearthed here, making this one of the world’s leading dinosaur museums. You can experience the breathtaking charm of prehistoric giants and dinosaurs unique to Japan up close, while learning about their evolutionary history and facts.

Field Dinosaur Museum

Beyond the indoor exhibits, you can register for the Field Dinosaur Museum activities. Step into Japan’s largest fossil excavation site to join guided tours and experience digging for fossils yourself—it’s enough to ignite an archaeological passion in both adults and children!

Recommended Restaurant: Saurus Kitchen

Located next to the Dinosaur Museum is “Saurus Kitchen,” a specialty restaurant themed after dinosaurs. The interior is filled with dinosaur elements, and the dishes—from their shapes to the plating details—are full of creative touches that make the dining experience even more fun.

Recommended Pass: Echizen Railway One-Day Pass

The Echizen Railway is divided into the Mikuni Awara Line and the Katsuyama Eiheiji Line. We recommend purchasing the One-Day Pass; besides the Dinosaur Museum, you can easily visit Eiheiji Temple and other popular spots along the railway, making your itinerary smoother and more cost-effective!

📖Further Reading：Explore the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum｜Dive into a Prehistoric World of Wonder

From the design of the transportation to the hands-on excavation experiences, this Fukui dinosaur journey reveals the city’s passion and dedication to dinosaur culture at every turn. Whether you are an archaeology enthusiast or a parent looking to let your children burn off some energy, Fukui offers surprises that exceed the imagination. When planning your next trip to Japan, don’t forget to add this charming “Dinosaur Kingdom” to your list and let this prehistoric awe become the most unforgettable memory of your journey!

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Heading to the Capital of Dinosaurs? Beyond the classic Dinosaur Museum, there are actually many more hidden gems and culinary delights to discover. After reading this article, you’ll be a true Fukui expert!

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