Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum in Katsuyama City stands as one of the world's premier paleontology museums, ranking among the top three dinosaur museums globally alongside institutions in China and Canada. Opened in 2000, the museum was established in response to the significant dinosaur fossil discoveries made in Fukui Prefecture beginning in the 1980s. The region's Kitadani Dinosaur Quarry has yielded numerous important specimens, including several dinosaur species named after the prefecture, such as Fukuiraptor and Fukuisaurus.

The museum's striking silver dome houses over 50 complete dinosaur skeletons, including specimens of Tyrannosaurus rex, Camarasaurus, and Stegosaurus. Three primary exhibition zones guide visitors through paleontology: the History of the Earth and Life, which traces evolution from the planet's formation; Dinosaur World, featuring the main skeleton displays and fossil collections; and the Fukui Prefecture research area, highlighting local discoveries. The facility includes a 600-seat dome theater and diorama displays that recreate Mesozoic landscapes. Particularly notable is the collection of locally discovered fossils, including bones from the herbivorous Fukuititan and the carnivorous Fukuivenator.

Interactive experiences distinguish this museum from typical exhibits. Visitors can observe paleontologists working in a visible laboratory space where actual fossil preparation occurs. The outdoor observation deck offers views of the surrounding mountains where many fossils were originally excavated. A fossil discovery experience is available at the nearby Katsuyama Dinosaur Forest, where visitors can search for actual fossil fragments in designated dig sites.

The museum is located in Katsuyama City, approximately 80 kilometers east of Fukui City. The most convenient access is by car, taking roughly one hour from Fukui Station via Route 416. For those using public transportation, take the JR Hokuriku Line to Fukui Station, then the Echizen Railway to Katsuyama Station, followed by a 15-minute bus ride on the Community Bus Dinosaur Route. Regular admission costs ¥1,000 for adults, ¥800 for university and high school students, and ¥500 for elementary and middle school students, with children under school age entering free.