Things To Do
in Tsurugashima
Tsurugashima is a small city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes, Tsurugashima is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The city is also home to several historical temples and shrines, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Tsurugashima has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a great destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
- "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 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Tsurugashima Park, where cherry blossoms bloom in spring. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and take in the picturesque views.
Have lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Japanese dishes. Afterward, explore the nearby shopping areas for unique souvenirs.
Relax at a local izakaya while enjoying delicious drinks and small plates. End your day with a peaceful stroll back through the park.
Visit a local fish market to experience the freshness of Japan's seafood. Sample sashimi and other local delights for breakfast.
Take a cooking class and learn how to make sushi with fresh ingredients. Enjoy the meal you've prepared for lunch.
Join a food tour to explore Tsurugashima's vibrant food scene. Try different dishes and learn about the local culinary culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and events.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby mountains and water bodies.
- Close proximity to Tokyo, making it a convenient location for travelers.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Access to local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping amenities than urban centers.
- Potential for natural disasters, such as earthquakes.
- Seasonal weather extremes that may limit outdoor activities.
- Higher living costs compared to other rural areas in Japan.
Best Activities in Tsurugashima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk and admire the beautiful sunset at Tsurugashima Park, a perfect outdoor activity for nature lovers.
Explore the scenic landscape by cycling along the Arakawa River, offering refreshing views and a relaxing experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Venture into Mitsugi Park's hiking trails, surrounded by lush greenery and providing an opportunity for a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tsurugashima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tsurugashima
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, making it a great spot for photography and sightseeing.
Provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Tsurugashima and its picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for capturing breathtaking photos.
Food in Tsurugashima
Tsurugashima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of Tsurugashima, Saba Sushi features fresh mackerel atop seasoned rice. It can be savored at authentic sushi restaurants like Sushikyu, located in the city center.
Must-Try!
Nikuman, or steamed pork buns, are a popular snack in Tsurugashima. Visitors can indulge in these delectable treats at local convenience stores and bakeries such as Nakamuraya.
Yakisoba, a savory stir-fried noodle dish, is a must-try street food in Tsurugashima. It can be enjoyed at food stalls during local festivals or at specialty yakisoba stands like Isshikiya.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Tsurugashima Central Market is a bustling hub of culinary delight, offering an array of fresh produce, snacks, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewered chicken).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tsurugashima, it is important to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect. Handshakes are not common, especially in more formal situations.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments like ryokan and temples. Slippers are usually provided for guests.
Maintaining a respectful distance when communicating with others is important in Tsurugashima. Japanese people tend to value personal space and may feel uncomfortable with close physical proximity.
Safety
Tipping in Tsurugashima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not practiced in Japan, including in Tsurugashima. It is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
In Tsurugashima, Japan, cash is the dominant form of payment, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. Mobile payment options such as IC cards and digital wallets are also becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tsurugashima, Japan is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and cherry blossoms are in bloom. The Tsurugashima Park is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) during this time.
Summer (June to August) in Tsurugashima is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. This season is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and festivals, such as the Tsurugashima Fireworks Festival held in late July.
Autumn (September to November) brings pleasant weather and beautiful foliage, making it another great time to visit Tsurugashima. The Tsurugashima Park and Tsurugashima Sports Park are popular spots to enjoy the fall colors.
Winter (December to February) in Tsurugashima is cold, and occasionally snowy. While the temperatures can be chilly, it's a great time for experiencing traditional Japanese winter festivals and enjoying hot springs in the region.
Tsurugashima at Night
Hiking in Tsurugashima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A shopping area that also offers trails and scenic views of the surrounding areas, ideal for a relaxed hiking experience.
A popular hiking destination offering a moderate trail with beautiful views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains.
A family-friendly park featuring walking and hiking paths, ideal for easy hikes and leisurely walks in nature.
A vast national park with numerous hiking trails through mountains, valleys, and rivers, suitable for various skill levels.
A scenic trail that runs through a beautiful countryside area, featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach Tsurugashima by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers east of Tsurugashima, Narita International Airport is one of the primary airports serving Tokyo and its surrounding areas.
Located about 45 kilometers south of Tsurugashima, Haneda Airport is Tokyo's main domestic airport and also serves international flights.
Situated approximately 400 kilometers west of Tsurugashima, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a major hub for international traffic.
Located around 300 kilometers west of Tsurugashima, Chubu Centrair International Airport is near Nagoya and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Tsurugashima, consisting mainly of Japanese citizens.
Includes expatriates and foreign workers living in Tsurugashima for work or study.
A significant portion of the population comprising elderly individuals, often living in the city.
A demographic group that includes school-aged children and university students.
Families facing economic challenges, which can impact their access to resources.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan and Tsurugashima is no exception, with local teams and schools participating in various tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Tsurugashima, with community leagues and youth programs promoting the sport.
Basketball is widely played in schools and recreational leagues, contributing to its popularity in Tsurugashima.
Softball is a common sport in Tsurugashima, often played in local parks and during community events.
Tennis courts are available in Tsurugashima, and the sport is popular among both youth and adults.
Volleyball is frequently played in schools and community centers, making it a popular sport in the area.
Running events and marathons are regularly organized, and many residents participate in running for fitness and competition.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced in Tsurugashima, contributing to physical fitness and cultural education.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsurugashima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tsurugashima's restaurants and cafes provide an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from plant-based sushi to hearty tofu-based meals, ensuring a fulfilling dining experience for non-meat eaters.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can relish in various gluten-free offerings, including rice-based dishes, sashimi, and specialized gluten-free baked goods available at select establishments.