Fukui Station (Fukui)
Fukui Station is a major railway station located in Fukui, Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It serves as the central transportation hub for the city and the surrounding region. The station is operated by the West Japan Railway Company (JR West) and the Echizen Railway.
Lines and Services:
- JR West Hokuriku Main Line: The Hokuriku Main Line connects Fukui Station to major cities such as Kanazawa, Toyama, and Osaka. Limited express services, including the Thunderbird and Shirasagi trains, operate on this line.
- JR West Etsumi-Hoku Line (Kuzuryū Line): A local line connecting Fukui to Kuzuryūko.
- Echizen Railway Katsuyama Eiheiji Line: A private railway line connecting Fukui to Katsuyama and Eiheiji.
- Echizen Railway Mikuni Awara Line: A private railway line connecting Fukui to Mikuni and Awara.
Station Layout:
Fukui Station has both ground-level and elevated platforms. The JR West platforms are primarily elevated, while the Echizen Railway platforms are located at ground level. The station building includes ticket offices, waiting areas, shops, restaurants, and tourist information.
History:
The original Fukui Station opened in 1896. The station has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the years, most recently with the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Fukui in March 2024, which included a significant upgrade to the station facilities.
Surrounding Area:
Fukui Station is located in the heart of Fukui city and is surrounded by commercial and residential areas. Notable landmarks near the station include:
- Habataki Hall Fukui (a convention center)
- Fukui Prefectural Government Office
- Several hotels and restaurants.
Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension:
The extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Fukui Station in 2024 has significantly improved access to the region, providing high-speed rail connections to Tokyo and other major cities. This has led to increased tourism and economic activity in Fukui Prefecture.