Things To Do
in Tsuru
Tsuru is a charming town located in the Yamanashi Prefecture of Japan. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Tsuru offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and hot springs. The town is known for its agricultural products, including grapes and peaches, which are popular among visitors.
Tsuru is also home to historical sites, such as temples and shrines, that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the surrounding hills, taking in fresh air and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.
Visit the Tsuru City Museum to learn about the area's history and culture. The exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the local heritage and the natural environment.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try traditional Japanese dishes. Afterward, take a gentle stroll along the riverbank to wind down your day.
Begin your morning at Tsuru Castle, where you can explore the historic site and enjoy panoramic views from the top. The castle's park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Head to the nearby Shoin Shrine for a peaceful experience surrounded by nature. The architecture and serene gardens make it a perfect spot for reflection.
Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant, savoring a multi-course meal. This culinary experience showcases the finest seasonal ingredients of the region.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and festivals.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby mountains and rivers.
- Quiet and safe environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Access to regional delicacies and local cuisine.
- Proximity to larger cities like Tokyo for day trips.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping facilities.
- Risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes.
- Economic opportunities may be limited for job seekers.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers may cause difficulties.
Best Activities in Tsuru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes in Tsuru Yama.
Explore the picturesque scenery of Tsuru while cycling along the Katsurazawa River.
Experience the cultural and historical significance of Tsuru-Fuji Asama Shrine while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tsuru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tsuru
Visit one of these nice places.
Hiking to the summit of Mt. Ougi offers breathtaking views of Tsuru and its surrounding landscapes, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
The Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine is not only a place of historical significance, but also offers beautiful gardens and unique architectural elements that make for stunning photo opportunities.
Exploring the Yamanaka Castle Ruins Park provides visitors with panoramic views of the city and its natural surroundings, making it a prime location for capturing captivating images.
Food in Tsuru
Tsuru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty noodle soup made with thick flat udon noodles, vegetables, and miso broth. A must-try dish in Tsuru, often enjoyed during the cooler months. One can savor this dish at Hoto Fudo, a popular restaurant in Tsuru known for serving excellent Hoto.
Must-Try!
A traditional Japanese sweet made from glutinous rice cakes with a sweet soybean flour topping. Visitors can indulge in this delicacy at the Shingen Mochi shop located in the heart of Tsuru.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Tsuru Food Market is a bustling hub of local culinary delights, offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and street food. Visitors can relish various street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and taiyaki (fish-shaped sweet filled pancake) while exploring the vibrant market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tsuru, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures when interacting with them.
Maintaining silence in public places such as trains, buses, and restaurants is a common cultural norm in Tsuru, as it shows consideration for others.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a Japanese home or certain traditional establishments in Tsuru as a sign of respect for the space and its occupants.
Safety
Tipping in Tsuru
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tsuru, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. The provision of exceptional service is seen as part of the standard service and is reflected in the price.
Payment in Tsuru, Japan is predominantly cash-based, although credit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller businesses and local markets. Foreign visitors should also be aware that some places may not accept international credit cards, so it's prudent to inquire beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tsuru is in April and May, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is generally mild. Expect beautiful cherry blossom viewing and pleasant outdoor activities.
Visiting Tsuru in the summer, especially in June to August, provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying the lush green landscapes. The weather can be warm and humid, with occasional rainfall.
Tsuru is particularly scenic in autumn from September to November when the leaves change color. Expect vibrant autumn foliage and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Winter in Tsuru, from December to February, brings snow to the region. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts and enjoying hot springs. Expect cold temperatures and beautiful snowy landscapes.
Tsuru at Night
Hiking in Tsuru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering beautiful trails with views of Mount Fuji and surrounding nature.
A hiking area known for its diverse flora and fauna, with trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
This hiking course takes you through vineyards and offers stunning views of the Minami Alps.
A spiritual mountain with hiking paths leading to temples, known for its serene environment and historical significance.
Features various trails with stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems, perfect for hikers seeking adventure.
Aiports
How to reach Tsuru by plane.
Also known as Haneda Airport, it is one of the two primary airports serving Tokyo and is located about 90 km from Tsuru.
Located approximately 120 km from Tsuru, Narita is the other major international airport serving the Tokyo area.
Located about 320 km from Tsuru, this is an international airport serving the Kansai region including Osaka and Kyoto.
Situated around 230 km from Tsuru, this airport serves the greater Nagoya area and offers international flights.
Known as Osaka International Airport, it is approximately 370 km from Tsuru and primarily handles domestic flights but offers some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Tsuru, comprising the bulk of the population.
This includes a small number of foreign nationals living in the city, including those from various countries.
A demographic group comprising a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas like Tsuru.
Young people and students, including those attending local schools and universities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Tsuru, with local teams and schools participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Soccer enjoys a strong following, with community clubs and youth leagues encouraging participation among local children and teens.
Basketball is widely played in schools and recreational leagues, with a good number of participants and fans in the region.
Running events are popular, with local races and marathons attracting both competitive runners and casual participants.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community centers, popular among all age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsuru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tsuru's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Sakura Cafe, for instance, provides a range of plant-based meals and beverages to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diners.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives at select eateries in Tsuru. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to the restaurant staff to ensure a satisfying dining experience.