One of the most iconic sightseeing spots in Fukui Prefecture is Tojinbo, a location often featured in two-hour suspense and crime dramas on Japanese TV.
Although it’s a bit of a distance from Fukui Station, Tojinbo is located on the outskirts of Sakai City in Fukui.
While most people travel there by car, I decided to take the train and bus instead.
Since I couldn’t find any website clearly explaining how to get to Tojinbo from Fukui Station, I’d like to share the route for future travelers. Of course, I also took plenty of photos!
Although Tojinbo has a reputation as a “suicide spot,” I found it to be a bustling and scenic destination filled with tourists. The gloomy image was quickly dispelled!
Taking the Train and Bus from Fukui Station to Tojinbo
From Fukui Station, take the Echizen Railway to Mikuni Station. Since it’s nearly the entire line, the ride takes about 50 minutes.
You could get off at the final stop, Mikuni Port Station, but be aware that there’s no taxi service and little else around. Mikuni Station, however, has a bus stop, some shops, and taxis available.
Here’s the bus schedule outside Mikuni Station. Take the No. 84 bus bound for Tojinbo.
Buses come about once an hour, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule in advance. (→ Keifuku Bus Route Info)
Here comes the bus to Tojinbo!
Other than myself, there was only one couple on the bus—likely tourists as well.
It seems that most visitors come by car or tour bus.
After getting off at the bus stop, walk down a pathway resembling a shrine approach to reach Tojinbo.
Along the way, you’ll find restaurants and souvenir shops—definitely the vibe of a tourist destination. As expected, seafood dominates the food options.
There was even this eye-catching shop. But what’s up with the phone number “Hi! Troubled”? Maybe something like “No Worries” would make more sense…
Here’s what it looks like on the map. Even if they warn against snacking while walking, it’s hard to resist.
Soon the view opens up—and you’ve arrived at your destination!
This is Tojinbo…!
This is where it’s located on the map.
A Stunning View of the Sea of Japan and Steep Cliffs
There were sightseeing boat hawkers, many elderly tourists, and a lively atmosphere—completely different from the somber image I had before arriving. It was just a normal tourist spot!
That said, it’s true that several people take their lives here every year, and there are signs for suicide prevention. Visiting at night might be genuinely scary…
Before you is the Sea of Japan, and across the water is Oshima Island with its iconic bridge—a breathtaking view.
Tojinbo is famous for its sheer cliffs.
These cliffs are made up of columnar joints of andesite rock—a geological formation that’s rare even on a global scale. They’re designated a Natural Monument of Japan.
Sightseeing boats depart from the cove-like areas carved into the cliffs.
If you want to experience being surrounded by cliffs on three sides, the boat ride is a must. I didn’t have time this visit, but I’d love to ride next time.
As expected of a popular filming location, even during my visit, a crew was filming something.
Guards were stationed to keep people out of the shot, so I couldn’t get close.
Maybe they were shooting a scene where a detective corners the suspect. Why does the suspect always flee to a dead-end cliff anyway?
Tojinbo Retro Collection
As a bonus, here’s a collection of retro finds spotted on the way back from Tojinbo.
Check out the delightfully retro “Tojinbo Tower.”
I missed the return bus, and there were no taxis in sight despite being a tourist area, so I had to walk 40 minutes to Mikuni Port Station.
Along the way, I saw something in a parking lot that really shouldn’t still be there…
The entrance looked ancient—definitely a relic from the Showa era.
This one’s tagline reads “Endless Sky and Sea,” followed by a random “I’m Tojinbo.” And the other guy? A friend?
After walking endlessly down roads with no sidewalks, I finally reached Mikuni Port Station. It was a long trek…
Since you’ll be walking along narrow roadside shoulders with no sidewalks, I don’t recommend walking. (Though I doubt many would try.) Either wait for the bus or find a way to call a taxi.
In the end, Tojinbo is definitely a place best reached by car.
Visit Tojinbo — One of Japan’s Most Breathtaking Scenic Spots
If you want to see stunning ocean cliffs and experience a touch of Japan’s Showa-era nostalgia, Tojinbo is absolutely worth a visit!
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