Mikata Five Lakes

福井県

general.prefecture.

A scenic spot registered in the Ramsar Convention wetlands.

The Mikata Five Lakes, which are registered as wetlands under the Ramsar Convention for the purpose of preserving the wetland ecosystem. The view from the Rainbow Line is beautiful, and the spectacular view of Mikata Five Lakes and the Sea of Japan was selected for the Cool Japan Award 2019.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic Nature

Highlights

Point 1

Enjoy Summit Park!

On the Sanmangoko Rainbow Line, there is a summit park with observation decks and a sky terrace. To get to the summit park, you need to take a lift or cable car. Those who want to feel the wind around Sanmangoko should definitely take the lift! For those who find it a little scary, we recommend the cable car. Inside the summit park, there are also cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialties such as Wakasa beef, which is a representative brand of Fukui.

Point 2

Sky Terrace is also Attractive

Rainbow Line Summit Park has a Sky Terrace. While there are several terraces available, the most recommended one is the Mihama Terrace! This is the only observation deck where you can see the Sea of Japan and all three of the Mikata Five Lakes at once. In addition, the Sky Footbath is also famous, and the stunning views of the Mikata Five Lakes and the Sea of Japan while soaking in the footbath have been certified as a Cool Japan Award 2019.

Point 3

Get Your Hands on Local Specialties!

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At the Rainbow Line mountaintop park, there is also a specialty product sales area where you can purchase souvenirs from Wakasa. When it comes to Wakasa souvenirs, Fukui plums are a must-have. It is the largest production area on the Japan Sea side, and the "Benisashi" variety is particularly popular as a plum with a delicious taste. In addition, pickled mackerel is also a classic and once you try it, you'll be hooked.

Point 4

Enjoy the Cuisine of Mikata Five Lakes

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Mikata Five Lakes is known for its abundance of fresh seafood, but the standout is definitely the eel. The eels in the depths of Mikata Lake are known for their high nutritional value and rich flavor. They can even compete with the eels of Shizuoka! There are many eel restaurants in the area, including the long-established "Unagiya Genyomon," so we recommend checking prices and finding the restaurant that suits you best.

Point 5

Visit the Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station)

On the south side of Mikatagoko, there is a Michi-no-Eki (roadside station) called "Mikatagoko Michi-no-Eki". It offers a wide variety of Fukui Ume-related products, which are specialties of Wakasa Town. This spot is highly recommended for those who want to buy fresh food produced in Fukui. The tourist information center is also located here, so it might be a good idea to consult with the staff if you have any places you want to visit or gourmet food you want to try.

Sightseeing

Breathtaking Views Created by a Majestic Lake and the Sea of Japan

Mikata Five Lakes is a collective term for five lakes: Mikata Lake, Suigetsu Lake, Sugawara Lake, Kugushi Lake, and Hinata Lake, spanning Mihama and Wakasa towns. In 2005, it was registered as a Ramsar Convention wetland. The five lakes are also known for their beautiful blue color, and the best way to enjoy this stunning scenery is on the Mikata Five Lakes Rainbow Line! The view of Mikata Five Lakes from the Mikata Five Lakes Terrace along the Rainbow Line is truly breathtaking!

Parking

Paid Parking Along the Rainbow Line!

The best way to enjoy the Mikata Goko area is by taking the Rainbow Line, but please note that the parking lots around the Rainbow Line Summit Park are paid. Since it's not possible to pass through by bike or on foot, it's recommended to use a taxi or rental car. There are places along the Rainbow Line where you can enjoy beautiful views, but please do not park on the side of the road as it can be very dangerous.

Creatures

Home to Many Valuable Species

Mikata Five Lakes is a scenic spot registered under the Ramsar Convention, where many fish species from saltwater to freshwater inhabit, and valuable waterbirds also come to visit. Mikata Five Lakes is also popular among anglers, and since Hina Lake is a completely saltwater lake, you can catch a lot of sea fish. The main fish caught are blue fish such as black sea bream and sardines. The two fishing ponds are also very popular, so be sure to check them out!