Discover the Heart of Echizen at Ichijodani Asakura Water Station
Nestled at the gateway to the nationally designated Special Historic Site and Special Scenic Area of Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins, Ichijodani Asakura Water Station is a vibrant roadside station where history, nature, and local culture converge. Located just minutes from Fukui Station and accessible by car, train, or bike, it serves as a perfect starting point for exploring one of Japan’s most significant战国-era heritage sites.
The station’s iconic three-arched waterwheel stands as a symbol of the region’s deep connection to water and tradition, while its on-site biotope offers a magical summer experience with seasonal firefly viewing. Visitors can savor authentic Echizen cuisine such as local soba noodles and soy sauce pork bowl, shop for seasonal produce and regional crafts, and recharge with EV charging and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're seeking a peaceful pause or a cultural journey, this roadside station delivers an authentic taste of rural Fukui.
Why Visit
Visit Ichijodani Asakura Water Station to experience the only roadside station in Japan where you can enjoy authentic soba soft cream made with locally milled buckwheat from the Echizen region, served beneath a historic three-tier waterwheel. This unique station is the gateway to the nationally designated Special Historic Site and Special Scenic Site of Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins, where you can walk through meticulously reconstructed Sengoku-era streets. In summer, witness the rare sight of fireflies dancing above the on-site biotope—only found here in the region.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Ichijodani Asakura Water Station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes in a welcoming dining space.
Water Wheel Dining
お食事処水車（みずぐるま）
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy dining space offering authentic regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere blends rustic charm with modern comfort, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and handmade goods at the station’s bustling market, celebrating the area’s craftsmanship and heritage.
Local Produce & Information Corner
物産・情報コーナー
A retail space offering a variety of regional products, including fresh local vegetables, agricultural and aquatic processed goods, and exclusive roadside station items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yōsen Orosoba (Buckwheat Noodles)
Featured Products
Explore signature items like fresh farm produce and unique local specialties, crafted with care from the heart of the region.
Buckwheat Noodles
越前おろしそば
Hand-ground buckwheat noodles from the Yōsen region, known for their rich flavor and smooth texture.
Sauce Katsudon Set
ソースかつ丼セット
A ready-to-eat meal kit featuring a premium pork cutlet and savory sauce, ideal for home cooking.
Soba Soft Cream
そばソフトクリーム
Delicious soft-serve ice cream made with authentic buckwheat flour, offering a unique taste of the region.
Buckwheat Flour
そば粉
High-quality buckwheat flour made from locally grown grains, perfect for traditional recipes.
Local Vegetable Box
地場野菜ボックス
A seasonal box of fresh, locally grown vegetables sourced directly from nearby farms.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, EV charging, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour parking at Ichijodani Asakura Water Station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with space for 50 vehicles, including 4 large vehicles and 46 ordinary cars. Two of the ordinary car spots are designated for heartful use.
Adjacent to the roadside station entrance
Toilet
The station provides restrooms with 7 male small toilets, 3 male large toilets, and 8 female toilets. There are also 2 accessible toilets for people with disabilities.
Inside the facility
FreeSpot Public Wi-Fi
Free public Wi-Fi service called 'FreeSpot' is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Fureai Information Center
The information center offers tourist information, maps, and brochures. It also features a computer, large monitor, and staff to assist visitors.
Inside the facility
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
One rapid EV charging station is available for electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
Bicycle Rental
Six bicycles are available for rent, including 2 electric bicycles and 4 regular bicycles.
Near the cycling course entrance
Biotope
A biotope area within the station where fireflies are raised and observed, especially during June. It is a scenic and educational space for visitors.
Inside the station grounds
ATM
An ATM is available for public use, located within the station premises.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
Two accessible toilets for people with disabilities are available, which can also serve as nursing rooms.
Inside the facility
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and nature walks, from viewing fireflies to exploring historic sites nearby.
Firefly Watching Experience
ホタル観賞体験
Participants can observe fireflies flying gracefully in the biotope area of the roadside station during summer, typically in June.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed on clear, warm evenings with low light pollution.
Bicycle Rental
自転車レンタル
Rent bicycles including electric and regular models to explore the surrounding area, including the historic site and natural trails.
Duration
120 min
Recommended for dry, sunny days; avoid during heavy rain.
Local Food Tasting Workshop
地元食体験
Participants can taste and learn about traditional local dishes such as Echizen-style soba noodles, sauce pork bowl, and soba soft serve.
Duration
45 min
Historic Town Walk Tour
歴史街歩きツアー
Guided walking tour to explore the reconstructed town of the Asakura Clan, including samurai houses, townhouses, and historical streets.
Duration
90 min
Wear comfortable walking shoes; recommended during mild weather.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around maintenance days and take advantage of early access to fully experience the station’s offerings.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the food corner between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to enjoy the full selection of the day’s fresh offerings, including the limited-time Yōkoku Soba and Sauce Katsu Don, as the kitchen prepares the morning batch before peak lunch demand begins.
- Hidden Gems: Check the back corner of the souvenir and information counter between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM to see the daily display of Kōdō-ya brand pickled vegetables, which are made in-house using seasonal local produce and often sell out by 1:00 PM.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 9:45 AM to secure a seat at the Mizuguruma restaurant’s outdoor seating area, which opens exclusively for lunch service from 10:00 AM and is reserved for visitors who arrive before the 10:00 AM opening.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the fast-charging station located just outside the main entrance between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays, as it is less likely to be occupied during these hours; avoid using it during weekend peak times when it is frequently reserved.
- Bike Rental Strategy: Reserve an electric bicycle from the rental stand at least 30 minutes before your intended departure time, as only two electric bikes are available and they are often taken within the first hour of opening on weekends.
- Seasonal Observation: Visit the biotope area just after dusk in early June to witness the Plecoptera species of fireflies, which are regularly observed flying above the water feature between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM when the area is lit softly for viewing.
- Restroom Access: Use the off-site toilets located just past the parking lot entrance when the main restroom is closed after 6:00 PM during winter months (December 1 to January 31), as these remain open 24 hours and are accessible even when the main facility is shut.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late April sees fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; the biotope hosts early seasonal insect activity.
Summer (June–August): Peak viewing for fireflies in the biotope, typically late June; summer festivals and extended hours.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for local vegetables; scenic foliage around the site from mid-October.
Winter (December–February): Quiet season with reduced hours; ideal for visiting the historic ruins without crowds.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a biotope where children can observe fireflies, a play area near the waterwheel, and family-friendly food options like soba and soft serve. Facilities include stroller-accessible paths and multiple restrooms, enhancing accessibility for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers a variety of local dishes such as Echizen-style soba and sauce katsudon, with fresh produce from regional farms. The shop sells unique local specialties and seasonal items, providing a rich culinary experience tied to the area’s heritage.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, 24-hour restrooms, and vending machines, supporting overnight stays. However, it lacks designated camping zones, and the site is not quiet at night due to nearby tourist activity, limiting comfort for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts a prominent three-arch waterwheel and views of the surrounding natural landscape. The biotope and seasonal firefly displays enhance scenic appeal. The site offers strong photo opportunities and a peaceful, historically rich atmosphere.