Things To Do
in Tsu
Tsu, the capital of Mie Prefecture, sits along Ise Bay with a mix of traditional charm and modern urban life. As a transportation hub, it serves as a gateway to Ise and the Ise-Shima region. The city is known for its traditional crafts, friendly neighborhoods, and convenient access to nature and coastline.
Expect a calm, authentic Japanese city experience with easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Tsu Castle, where you can admire the historical architecture and take a stroll through the beautiful surrounding gardens. After exploring the castle, visit the nearby Tsu City Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local eatery, savoring fresh fish and rice.
In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Ise Bay, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Stop by the Tsu Art Museum to appreciate local artworks and exhibitions that showcase the culture of Mie Prefecture. For lunch, indulge in some famous Ise udon, a thick noodle dish unique to the region.
As the sun sets, make your way to the bustling downtown area for some shopping and nightlife. Explore local shops that sell traditional crafts and souvenirs, and don't miss the chance to try street food like yakitori and takoyaki. End your evening at a cozy izakaya, enjoying a selection of local sake and delightful small plates.
Begin your day early with a visit to Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines. The serene atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings make for an enlightening experience as you observe traditional rituals and offerings. Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the tranquil gardens and the iconic wooden architecture of the shrine.
After exploring the shrine, head to the nearby Okage Yokocho, a charming street lined with shops and eateries that offer traditional Japanese snacks and goods. Sample local delicacies such as sekihan (red rice) and fresh seafood while shopping for souvenirs. Spend your afternoon wandering the narrow streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the area.
As dusk approaches, return to Tsu and find a local onsen for a relaxing soak. The warm waters will rejuvenate you after a day of exploration, and many onsens offer stunning views of the surrounding nature. Finish the day with a quiet dinner at a restaurant that specializes in kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $50-100 |
| 🚆Public transportation day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location for day trips to Ise and Ise-Shima
- Calm, safe, walkable city with authentic local culture
- Good food scene focusing on seafood and regional specialties
- Access to nature with coastal and hill trails
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Some attractions require travel to nearby towns
- Language barrier in more rural areas
- Seasonal rainfall can affect outdoor plans
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the toilet?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is it?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "助けてください" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Tsu
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots over the bay with fishing boats and calm waters from riverside parks.
From hilltop parks and pedestrian bridges, capture reflections of the town at dusk.
Texture-rich alleyways and traditional storefronts ideal for street photography.
Dramatic skies over the water with silhouettes of boats and shorelines.
Food in Tsu
Tsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick udon noodles in a rich, soy-forward broth, often served with scallions and toppings.
Must-Try!
Melt-in-your-mouth wagyu from nearby Matsusaka, enjoyed as steak or sukiyaki.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market area with fresh seafood, vegetables, and ready-to-eat bites.
Seasonal street snacks and small bites near the transit hub, great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional spaces; use provided slippers.
Speak softly on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud conversations on public transport.
Offer money or gifts with both hands and bow slightly as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Tsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Japan generally does not tip; a polite thank you suffices. Some tourist-focused spots may accept a small tip, but it is not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in urban areas; IC cards (e.g., Suica, PASMO) are used for transit; mobile payments are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with cherry blossoms in late March to early April; expect light rain at times.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; vibrant foliage in nearby hills.
Cool to mild; rare snowfall in the city; layering is key.
Tsu at Night
Hiking in Tsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient pilgrimage routes with forested paths and scenic viewpoints; reachable by day trip from Tsu with planning.
Short, scenic coastal trails offering sea views and refreshing ocean air.
Airports
How to reach Tsu by plane.
Near Nagoya; train connections to Mie and Tsu; about 2 hours to central Tsu by rapid train.
Osaka’s domestic hub; longer transit to Tsu but good for connections.
Major international hub; transfer to Mie via train or bus; travel time several hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Japanese; aging population in some districts; families and commuters form a large share.
Domestic travelers exploring Ise and Shima; growing international visitors.
University areas and commuters traveling to nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and clubs; occasional local games.
Common recreational sport; regional matches and clubs.
Local events and casual runs along city routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable-focused dishes; be mindful that some broths use dashi (fish stock).
Choose plant-based dishes and confirm no dashi or animal-derived ingredients.