Things To Do
in Tsuruga

Tsuruga is a picturesque coastal city located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. The city is situated along the Sea of Japan and boasts stunning views, especially during sunset. Tsuruga is also home to historical sites such as the Tsuruga Castle and the former Tsuruga Port.

With its welcoming locals and fresh seafood, Tsuruga offers a unique experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Tsuruga
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tsuruga Castle, where you can explore the grounds and learn about the city's history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tsuruga Museum to delve deeper into the local culture, and then enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Stroll along the Tsuruga Bay promenade and indulge in a dinner featuring local specialties, followed by a visit to a local onsen (hot spring).

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike at the nearby Koshino Trail, enjoying the natural beauty and panoramic views of the Sea of Japan.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical district of Iiyama, where you can sample traditional snacks and shop for local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, experiencing the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Bowl of Ramen$10
Coffee$3
🚌Bus Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night Stay$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious and fresh local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some travelers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent outside peak hours.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Tsuruga

Visit one of these nice places.

Tsuruga Bay

A stunning location for sunset photography, where the sky reflects beautifully on the water.

Tsuruga Castle

The castle provides a historical backdrop against the natural beauty of the surrounding parks.

Koshino Trail

Offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tsuruga

Tsuruga offers a delightful culinary experience, highlighted by its fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Tsuruga Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Echizen Crab

A seasonal delicacy, renowned for its sweet and tender meat, often served grilled or as sashimi.

Must-Try!

Tsuruga Soba

Buckwheat noodles served cold or hot, typically accompanied by dipping sauces or broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tsuruga Fish Market

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat street food.

Tsuruga Street Food Stalls

Offering delicacies like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tsuruga has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during the summer months. Snowfall is common in winter, especially in January and February.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

A bow is the traditional way to greet someone in Japan, showing respect and humility.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public places, such as trains and restaurants, to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tsuruga is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, local hospitals and clinics are accessible, and public safety measures are well-maintained.

Tipping in Tsuruga

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude; excellent service is expected without gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments; ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make this season ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for beach outings, but be prepared for occasional typhoons.

Autumn

The foliage changes to vibrant colors, creating picturesque scenery ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can be expected, making it a great time for hot springs and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Tsuruga at Night

Tsuruga offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around izakayas (Japanese pubs) and local bars. Visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with opportunities to sample local drinks, including sake and shochu. Karaoke is also popular, making for a fun night out with friends or fellow travelers. While not as bustling as larger cities, Tsuruga's nightlife provides a cozy and friendly experience.

Hiking in Tsuruga

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koshino Trail

A popular hiking trail that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Mount Asuwa

Located nearby, this mountain features various hiking routes and is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Tsuruga by plane.

Komatsu Airport (KMQ)

Located approximately 80 km from Tsuruga, Komatsu Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tsuruga is a relatively walkable city, especially in the central areas where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the compact layout allows for easy exploration on foot. However, some attractions may require public transportation or a short drive, especially those located outside the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Tsuruga has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's broader demographic trend, which influences local culture and services.

Young Families

Young families are increasingly settling in Tsuruga, attracted by its family-friendly environment and educational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, and local teams often engage in matches that attract enthusiastic fans.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, with local clubs competing in regional leagues and community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tsuruga is generally manageable, with local roads accommodating vehicles and public transport. Buses are the primary means of public transportation, providing access to various parts of the city. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can occur, particularly near commercial areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsuruga.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While traditional Japanese cuisine often features fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options or can accommodate requests.

Gluten-Free

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat, which is gluten-free, but be cautious as soy sauce and other ingredients may contain gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Tsuruga has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, offering both general and specialized medical services. In case of emergencies, local hospitals are well-equipped and accessible. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health services. English-speaking staff may be limited, so having a translation app or phrasebook can be helpful.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide