Background

Kumagawa-juku: A Journey Back in Time

Step back in time at Kumagawa-juku, a beautifully preserved Edo-era post town on the historic Mackerel Highway in Wakasa, Fukui Prefecture.

3.7

Kumagawa-juku is a preserved post town in Wakasa, Fukui Prefecture, offering a glimpse into Japan's Edo period. Once a bustling hub on the Mackerel Highway, it features historic buildings, traditional canals, and a tranquil atmosphere.

A brief summary to Kumagawa juku

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the town's peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
  • Take a stroll along the Maekawa canal to appreciate the traditional irrigation system and serene environment.
  • Explore all three sections of the town – Kaminomachi, Nakanomachi and Shimonmachi – to discover unique architectural details.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Kaminaka Station, take the JR Bus Wakae Line bound for Omi-Imazu and get off at the Wakasa Kumagawa bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 9 minutes. The bus fare is around ¥200-¥300. From the bus stop, it's a short 5-minute walk to Kumagawa-juku.

  • Car

    If driving from central Wakasa, head southeast on Route 27. Follow the signs for Wakasa and continue straight for approximately 30 kilometers. As you approach Kumagawa, look for signs directing you to Kumagawa-juku. Parking is available nearby for around ¥500.

Unlock the Best of Kumagawa juku

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kumagawa juku

Kumagawa-juku, located in Wakasa, Fukui Prefecture, is a beautifully preserved post town that transports visitors back to the Edo period. Established in 1589, it thrived as a vital rest stop along the Saba Kaido, or Mackerel Highway, which connected Wakasa Bay to Kyoto. This route was essential for transporting seafood, especially mackerel, to the imperial capital. Today, Kumagawa-juku is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, ensuring the preservation of its historic townscape. Visitors can explore the well-maintained streets lined with machiya houses, traditional townhouses that once served as shops, inns, and residences. A unique feature of Kumagawa-juku is the Maekawa canal, which runs alongside the main street, providing a soothing ambiance. This canal was historically used for drinking water, agriculture, and domestic purposes. Key sights include the Kumagawa-juku Shukubakan Museum, housed in the former village office, which showcases the history of the post town and the Saba Kaido. The town is divided into three main sections: Kaminomachi, Nakanomachi, and Shimonomachi, each offering a slightly different atmosphere. Exploring these sections reveals various architectural styles and historical landmarks, including remnants of guardhouses and storehouses.

Popular Experiences near Kumagawa juku

Popular Hotels near Kumagawa juku

Select Currency