Tsuruoka Travel Guide

Discover Tsuruoka, Japan with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-visit places, natural and cultural attractions, food and drink scene, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka is a beautiful city located in Yamagata Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. The city is known for its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and unique cultural traditions. Tsuruoka is home to some of the best preserved samurai districts in Japan, and it also offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Japanese rural life.

List of Places to Visit in Tsuruoka

If you’re planning a trip to Tsuruoka, here are some of the must-visit places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shonai Museum of Traditional Residential Architecture: This museum showcases traditional farmhouses, samurai residences, and merchant houses from the Shonai region dating back to the Edo period.
  • Mogami Yoshiaki Historical Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life of Mogami Yoshiaki, the lord of Tsuruoka during the Edo period.
  • Hagurosan Five-Story Pagoda: This is the tallest pagoda in Tohoku and is located at the entrance of the Hagurosan Shrine.
  • Tsuruoka Park: This park is home to Tsuruoka Castle, which was built in the 14th century and was one of the largest castles in Japan.

Natural Attractions of Tsuruoka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Haguro: A sacred mountain famous for its beautiful scenery and ancient Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.
  • Dewa Sanzan: Three mountains (Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono) that are considered holy in Japanese Shintoism and are a popular destination for spiritual pilgrimages.
  • Tamasudare Waterfall: A stunning waterfall located in Mount Yudono that is said to have healing powers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka has some of the best hiking and biking routes in Japan that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the city. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Hagurosan: Five Temple Pilgrimage: This route takes visitors to the five temples located on Mount Haguro.
  • Dewa Sanzan Circuit: A 3-day hike that takes visitors to all three sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan.
  • Spa & Trail: A 2-hour hike through the forests near Tsuruoka that ends at a natural hot spring.

Best Things to Do in Tsuruoka: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Tsuruoka, here are some popular activities and tours:

  • Experience Traditional Japanese Farming: Visitors can experience rice farming and other traditional farming practices at local farms.
  • Japanese Calligraphy Workshop: Visitors can learn the art of Japanese calligraphy from local experts.
  • Lake Kamo River Cruise: A relaxing boat ride on the serene Lake Kamo River, famous for its beautiful scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsuruoka

If you’re planning to spend a week in Tsuruoka, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1 Visit Tsuruoka Castle and Shonai Museum of Traditional Residential Architecture
Day 2 Hike Mount Haguro and visit the Five Temple Pilgrimage
Day 3 Visit Mogami Yoshiaki Historical Museum and Tsuruoka Park
Day 4-6 Complete Dewa Sanzan Circuit and visit nearby hot springs
Day 7 Explore Tsuruoka’s food and drink scene, and buy local souvenirs and products

Food and Drink Scene of Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka is known for its delicious local cuisine and sake. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Idako Somen: A dish that combines squid and thin noodles made of wheat starch served with dipping sauce.
  • Gyushimai: Steamed buns stuffed with beef, onion, and other vegetables.
  • Kokusan Mochi: A traditional Japanese sweet wrapped with handmade Japanese paper.

Local Beverages

  • Kudoki Jozu: A locally brewed sake that is smooth and easy to drink.
  • Naruko Tea: A fragrant tea made from green tea leaves grown in Naruko, a nearby town.

Where to Stay in Tsuruoka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tsuruoka offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some popular options:

  • Tsuruoka Park Hotel: A luxurious hotel located near Tsuruoka Park and Tsuruoka Castle.
  • Hotel Route-Inn Tsuruoka Inter: A mid-range hotel located near the Tsuruoka Interchange on the Yamagata Expressway.
  • Guesthouse Yawaragi-no-Sato: A traditional Japanese guesthouse located in the foothills of Mount Haguro.

What to Buy in Tsuruoka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Tsuruoka, here are some recommendations:

  • Nambu Senbei: Traditional Japanese rice crackers with various flavors, such as soy sauce and miso.
  • Tsuruoka Cedar Products: Handcrafted cedar wood products, such as chopsticks, coasters, and vases.
  • Japanese Paper Products: Traditional Japanese paper products, such as notebooks, fans, and envelopes.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be aware of local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Tsuruoka Kojima Matsuri: A famous festival held in October, where local men carry large wooden logs while dancing and chanting.
  • Shinto Shrines and Buddhist Temples: Visitors should respect local religious customs when visiting these sacred places.
  • Japanese Etiquette: Visitors should follow Japanese etiquette, such as taking off shoes when entering a home or restaurant, and bowing to show respect.

Best Time to Visit Tsuruoka

The best time to visit Tsuruoka depends on your interests. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to enjoy Tsuruoka’s natural beauty, while summer (June to August) is the best season for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is famous for its winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsuruoka

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be polite and considerate to locals.
  • Explore Tsuruoka’s natural beauty, food scene, and cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs, such as not taking off shoes when entering a home or restaurant.
  • Leave litter or damage natural or cultural sites.
  • Ignore safety precautions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka is a relatively safe city, but visitors should be alert and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Take precautions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Be aware of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons.
  • Follow traffic rules and be careful when crossing roads.

Health in Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka has good medical facilities and services. Visitors should take necessary precautions, such as getting travel insurance and vaccinations, before traveling to Japan.

Getting to Tsuruoka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tsuruoka is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Tsuruoka

  • Yamagata Airport: The nearest airport to Tsuruoka, located about 40 km to the south.

Bus Stations Near Tsuruoka

  • Tsuruoka Bus Terminal: Located in the center of the city, the terminal connects Tsuruoka with other cities in Yamagata Prefecture and other parts of Japan.

Other Options

  • Yamagata Shinkansen: The Yamagata Shinkansen connects Tsuruoka with Tokyo and other major cities in Japan.
  • Rental Cars: Visitors can rent cars at Yamagata Airport or in Tsuruoka to explore the city and nearby areas.

How to Get Around in Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses and taxis. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer more flexibility and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Tsuruoka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can consider:

  • Sakata: A historic port town located about 40 km from Tsuruoka, famous for its preserved samurai district and seafood.
  • Yamadera: A beautiful temple complex located in the mountains of Yamagata, featuring stunning scenery and hiking trails.
  • Yonezawa: A historic castle town located about 90 km from Tsuruoka, known for its sake and beef.

Conclusion

Tsuruoka offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Japanese culture and rural life. Whether you’re interested in history, natural scenery, or food and drink, Tsuruoka has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Tsuruoka today and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in Japan.

Five-story Pagoda at Hagurosan Five-story Pagoda at Hagurosan