[Access] Approximately 1 hour by car via National Route 360 from Komatsu Airport

For trips to the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, we often stay at Hotel Happo, as my child is a huge dinosaur fan. This hotel is located in the Shiramine area and offers access to Shiramine Onsen, a sodium bicarbonate spring known for leaving your skin smooth and earning the nickname “silky skin beauty bath.” Nearby, the Shiramine Onsen So-yu, a public bathhouse, is surrounded by quaint, old-town vibes that I absolutely love. The area also boasts delicious local treats like tochi-mochi (horse chestnut rice cakes) from Shinsa Hompo and traditional firm tofu from local shops, making it a destination we never tire of revisiting.

Hotel Happo’s building has an old-fashioned charm, but it is well-maintained. One of my favorite parts of arriving is the warm welcome at check-in, where they offer tochi-mochi as a treat (I adore tochi-mochi, so this always makes me smile). The staff are incredibly friendly, which is another reason we keep coming back. The onsen water is clear and slightly viscous, feeling like lotion on the skin, making it wonderfully hydrating and gentle.

Dinner is a feast of local ingredients cooked over a traditional irori hearth. Grilled ayu (sweetfish), local firm tofu, thick fried tofu, and baked wheat gluten are staples, offering both hearty portions and delightful flavors.

The tochi-mochi from Shinsa Hompo in Shiramine is a personal favorite. Its refined sweetness makes it hard to resist eating five pieces in one sitting 🙂

The hotel’s location makes it convenient for sightseeing. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is a short drive away and features attractions like Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool” and James Turrell’s “Blue Planet Sky,” which are great for visiting with children.

The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is an exciting place for both kids and adults, with its impressive exhibits and hands-on experiences. The fossil excavation activity is a highlight – guided by the museum staff, you learn about significant discoveries made on-site. During our visit, we uncovered fossils of ferns and bivalves, which added an extra layer of excitement to the trip. It’s an unforgettable experience.