Fukui Prefecture is Japan's dinosaur capital, and its landmark museum houses one of Asia's finest fossil collections — including species found only here — housed in a striking futuristic dome in the Katsuyama highlands.
What to expect
The silver dome emerges from the forested hills like something from another era — a fitting home for creatures 66 million years old. Inside, the permanent collection spans three floors: life-size animatronic dinosaurs, real fossil preparation labs viewable through glass, and an extraordinary collection of Fukuiraptor and Fukuisaurus specimens found right in this prefecture. The outdoor Dinosaur Valley fossil park allows you to walk replica dig sites. The experience is genuinely world-class, rivalling the great natural history museums of London and New York.
Good to know
Allow approximately 90 minutes each way from Tsuruga port by private car. The museum is approx. 70 km inland. Book your private transfer in advance and share your all-aboard time. Pre-purchase museum tickets online at dinosaur.pref.fukui.jp to avoid queues.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Tsuruga — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Tsuruga
- Private Tsuruga & Fukui Full-Day Tour with Local Expert
- Kehi Jingu Shrine: Japan's Third-Greatest Torii in Private Audience
- Tojinbo Cliffs: Dramatic Basalt Coast & Sea of Japan Panorama
- Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum: A Moving Chapter of WWII History
- Scenic Boat Ride to Mihama & Mizushima Island Coastline