Things To Do
in Tsuruga
Tsuruga is a coastal city in Fukui Prefecture facing the Sea of Japan. It blends a working port with quiet streets, modern amenities, and a maritime heritage. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional markets.
Visitors can enjoy waterfront walks, seaside scenery, and a relaxed pace that highlights local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tsuruga City History Museum, where you can explore exhibitions that showcase the city's rich maritime history. After absorbing the local culture, stroll through the scenic streets lined with traditional wooden houses that reflect the architectural styles of the Edo period. Don't forget to stop by a local café to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Japanese green tea.
Head to the famous Tsuruga Harbor, where you can watch the fishing boats come and go while enjoying the coastal views. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, and consider visiting the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse, which now houses shops and eateries. For lunch, indulge in some local seafood delicacies at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors of the sea.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Tsuruga Bay area for a picturesque sunset view over the water. Later, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, where you can experience the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Finish the evening with a relaxing stroll through the bay area, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the night.
Begin your day with an invigorating walk at Kehi no Matsubara, a beautiful pine forest along the coastline. The fresh sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the shore create a perfect atmosphere for contemplation. Take your time to capture the stunning coastal views and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of the pine trees and ocean. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the water, or partake in some beach activities like beach volleyball or frisbee. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to paddle along the serene coastline.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the breathtaking sunset over the horizon. Afterward, head into Tsuruga city for a casual dinner at a local izakaya, where you can sample a variety of small dishes and local sake. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨1-night hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚆Local transit fare | $2-6 |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $30-60 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and maritime culture
- Compact, walkable city center with harbor views
- Accessible coastal scenery and short day trips
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Some small eateries may be cash-only or English-limited
- Winter weather can include snow and icy conditions
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Doko desu ka?" - Where is...?
- "Kore o kudasai" - This please
- "Watashi wa bejitarian desu" - I am vegetarian
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Tsuruga
Visit one of these nice places.
Long stretches of coastline with golden-hour light over the Sea of Japan and rocky sea cliffs provide dramatic seaside photography opportunities.
A working harbor scene with fishing boats, cranes, and colorful moored vessels—perfect for candid harbor life photos.
A broad, elevated promenade offering panoramic views of the bay, ideal for panoramic shots and sunset silhouettes.
Historic lanes with traditional shopfronts and lanterns, great for atmospheric street photography and local life.
Iconic lighthouse with sea backdrops; early morning or blue hour gives clean silhouettes against the water.
Food in Tsuruga
Tsuruga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty featuring cured mackerel paired with vinegared rice, often sold in lacquer boxes at markets and traditional shops.
Must-Try!
A generous bowl of rice topped with a selection of sashimi from the day's catch, best sampled at Mikuni market-side restaurants.
Seasonal delicacies featuring lightly prepared firefly squid, commonly appearing on coastal menus in the appropriate season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub where fishermen unload the day’s catch and stalls offer fresh sashimi, sushi, and ready-to-eat seafood bites.
A smaller market with street stalls offering grilled fish, tamagoyaki, and regional produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments or temples; use provided slippers where offered.
Speak quietly on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud conversations to respect others.
Line up patiently and form orderly queues for trains, buses, and entrances.
Cleanse thoroughly before entering baths; tattoos may be restricted in some onsens; follow posted rules.
Safety
Tipping in Tsuruga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. A polite thank-you is usually sufficient; excellent service is expected as standard.
Cash is widely accepted, including in markets and small shops. Many restaurants take credit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; good for outdoor walks and market visits. Light showers possible; carry a compact umbrella.
Warm and humid, with occasional typhoons or heavy showers. Beach and seaside activities are popular; hydrate and seek shade during peak sun.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for long coastal walks and harvest festivals.
Cold with chances of snowfall on the coast and inland. Layered clothing is essential; some outdoor activities may be windy or limited.
Tsuruga at Night
Hiking in Tsuruga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail along the Mikuni coast with sea views, gentle climbs, and opportunities for seaside photo stops.
A shaded woodland path offering a cooler retreat and birdwatching during warmer months.
Airports
How to reach Tsuruga by plane.
A regional airport with domestic flights and easy rail or road access to Tsuruga; plan for approximately a couple of hours travel by train or car.
A smaller local airport offering limited service; convenient for quick regional connections, with ground transport to Tsuruga.
A major international hub near Nagoya, offering many international and domestic options, with rail or highway links to Fukui and Tsuruga.
A major international gateway in western Japan; from there, domestic connections and long-distance trains serve Fukui and Tsuruga with a longer but workable journey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady presence in residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and family-friendly attractions.
A significant portion of the population due to Japan's aging demographics, influencing slower-paced local life and accessible facilities.
Longstanding local industries shape the culture and daily rhythms around the harbor.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular sport nationwide; you’ll find local clubs and school games during the season.
Commonly enjoyed by locals and visitors alike; look for matches in municipal facilities or school grounds.
Skiing and snow activities are accessible in the Fukui region during winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsuruga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in some traditional spots. Look for vegetable-focused dishes, edamame, tofu, salads, and ask for adjustments. It helps to learn a few phrases like 'vegetarian desu' and to confirm no fish stock in broths.