Things To Do
in Tsu

Tsu is the capital city of Mie Prefecture, located on the coast of Japan. Known for its rich history, Tsu features beautiful parks, traditional temples, and a vibrant local culture. The city is also famous for its production of high-quality textiles, particularly the traditional Mie cotton.

With its proximity to Ise and Nagoya, Tsu serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Tsu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tsu Castle, where you can explore the historical site and enjoy views from the top. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Tsu Castle Park, which is beautiful in the spring.

afternoon
:

Head to the Mie Prefectural Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Japanese art. Enjoy lunch at a local soba noodle shop.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya where you can sample various Japanese dishes, and take a walk along the Tsu waterfront to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Ise Jingu Shrine, a short train ride from Tsu, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this important Shinto site.

afternoon
:

Return to Tsu and explore the local markets, where you can find fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Don't forget to try a few street food snacks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant that specializes in fresh, local catches. End your night at a karaoke bar to experience a fun aspect of Japanese nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$8
🍺Beer (local)$5
Coffee$3
🍱Bento box$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you
  • "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "いくらですか? (Ikura desu ka?)" - How much is this?
  • "トイレはどこですか? (Toire wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Tsu

Visit one of these nice places.

Tsu Castle

A historical site with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and stunning views of the city.

Ise Jingu Shrine

A sacred Shinto shrine surrounded by ancient trees, providing a serene atmosphere for photography.

Tsu Waterfront

A picturesque area to capture sunset views over the bay, perfect for evening photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tsu

Tsu offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique local flavors and traditional Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re looking for street food or fine dining, Tsu has something for everyone.

Tsu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mie Soba

A type of buckwheat noodle that is a specialty of the region, often served cold with dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Kumano Beef

High-quality wagyu beef known for its marbling and rich flavor, often grilled or served as steak.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tsu Fish Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat meals.

Tsu Yokocho

A street lined with food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tsu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Precipitation is common throughout the year, particularly during the rainy season in June and July.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting in Japan, bowing is a sign of respect; the deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.

Shoes Off Indoors

It’s customary to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or traditional accommodations.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public places, especially on public transport, is important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tsu is generally a very safe city for travelers. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should still be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. In case of emergencies, Japanese emergency services can be reached by dialing 119 for fire or medical assistance and 110 for police.

Tipping in Tsu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude; service charges are usually included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, and credit cards are becoming more widely accepted; however, it's good to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Tsu is beautiful with cherry blossoms blooming in March and April, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C; stay hydrated and enjoy the local summer festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning foliage, particularly in parks and temples, making it an ideal time for scenic walks.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be chilly; occasional snowfall can occur, adding a magical touch to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Tsu at Night

Tsu's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of izakayas (Japanese pubs), karaoke bars, and local clubs. The city caters to both locals and tourists, offering a friendly atmosphere for socializing. Popular areas include Tsu Station where many bars and eateries are clustered together, providing a lively scene for a night out.

Hiking in Tsu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kameyama Park Trail

A scenic trail leading through forests with beautiful views of the city and surrounding hills.

Mount Gassan Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Tsu by plane.

Chubu Centrair International Airport

Located about 30 km from Tsu, this airport serves as the main international gateway to the region, offering flights to and from various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tsu is a relatively walkable city, especially in the downtown area where major attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at most intersections. However, some attractions may be spread out, so using public transportation or renting a bicycle could enhance your experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Tsu's population consists of Japanese citizens, with a strong sense of community and tradition.

Tourists

Visitors from both within Japan and abroad are increasingly attracted to Tsu for its cultural and historical significance.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams and high school tournaments drawing large crowds.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys popularity in Tsu, with community leagues and schools actively participating in the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tsu can be moderate, especially during peak commuting hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trains that connect various parts of Tsu and surrounding areas. Bicycling is also a popular mode of transport, with designated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for fish-based ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine uses soy sauce (which contains gluten), some restaurants offer gluten-free soy sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, and Tsu is no exception. Hospitals and clinics are well-equipped, and many healthcare professionals speak at least some English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and for any serious issues, you can find major hospitals such as Mie Prefectural General Medical Center nearby.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide