Fukui was an important seat of government during the Warring States Period, and is still dotted with historical sights like Yokokan Teien Garden and Saikoji Temple. Eiheiji Temple is the headquarters of the Soto sect of Buddhism, the temple is inhabited by nearly 200 novices and itinerant monks. Fukui is also known for many traditional handicrafts, like Echizen-yaki, one of the six oldest kinds of pottery found in Japan.
