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If you ever find yourself craving a place where tradition and nature dance effortlessly together,Tsuruoka is where you want to be. The moment you step into this city,there’s a gentle calm that wraps around you,like a soft blanket on a crisp morning. The streets hum quietly with the rhythm of daily life,punctuated by the distant clang of temple bells and the rustle of leaves in the breeze. It’s a place where the seasons don’t just pass—they announce themselves with vivid colors and scents,from the delicate cherry blossoms in spring to the earthy aroma of freshly harvested rice in autumn.
What really makes Tsuruoka stand out is its deep connection to food and culture. This city is a proud custodian of Japan’s culinary heritage,especially with its incredible local produce and traditional dishes like shojin ryori,the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine that feels both humble and profound. Walking through the morning markets,you’ll catch the fresh,salty tang of seafood mingling with the sweet fragrance of mountain vegetables,inviting you to taste the landscape itself.
Beyond the food,Tsuruoka pulses with a quiet creativity. The old temples and shrines whisper stories of centuries past,while the nearby mountains and rice paddies invite you to slow down and breathe. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in a serene hike or find unexpected joy in a small-town festival. Visiting Tsuruoka feels like stepping into a living poem—one that lingers in your senses long after you’ve left.
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Eng word: Hello
Eng pronunciation: Konnichiwa
Local language: こんにちは
Eng word: Goodbye
Eng pronunciation: Sayōnara
Local language: さようなら
Eng word: Thank you
Eng pronunciation: Arigatō
Local language: ありがとう
Eng word: How much
Eng pronunciation: Ikura
Local language: いくら
Eng word: Toilet
Eng pronunciation: Toire
Local language: トイレ
Eng word: Help me
Eng pronunciation: Tasukete
Local language: 助けて
Eng word: Yes
Eng pronunciation: Hai
Local language: はい
Eng word: No
Eng pronunciation: Iie
Local language: いいえ
Eng word: Excuse me
Eng pronunciation: Sumimasen
Local language: すみません
Tsuruoka flourished as the political and cultural center of the Shonai Domain during the Edo period (1603–1868). The Sakai clan, who ruled the domain, established Tsuruoka as a castle town, leaving behind a rich legacy of samurai culture and traditions.
Tsuruoka is renowned for its Shojin Ryori, a traditional vegetarian cuisine rooted in Zen Buddhist practices. This culinary tradition has been preserved for centuries, making Tsuruoka a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Tsuruoka is the gateway to the Dewa Sanzan, three sacred mountains (Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono) that have been a center of Shugendo mountain worship for over 1,400 years. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit these mountains for spiritual renewal.
The Five-Story Pagoda on Mount Haguro, a National Treasure of Japan, is one of the oldest wooden pagodas in the country. Built over 600 years ago, it stands as a symbol of harmony with nature and spiritual devotion.
Tsuruoka Park, located on the site of the former Tsuruoka Castle, is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The park preserves the history of the Sakai clan while offering a serene environment for visitors.
Tsuruoka is home to the Kamo Aquarium, which boasts the world's largest collection of jellyfish species. This unique attraction combines marine biology with artistic displays, making it a must-visit destination.
Tsuruoka has a long history of Shonai weaving, a traditional textile craft known for its intricate patterns and high-quality fabrics. Visitors can explore workshops and learn about this centuries-old art form.
Zenpoji Temple, located in Tsuruoka, is a significant Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity of the sea. It has been a place of worship for fishermen and travelers since the Edo period, reflecting the city's maritime heritage.
Tsuruoka hosts several traditional festivals, such as the Oyama Sankyosai Festival and the Dewa Sanzan Flower Festival. These events showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and provide a vibrant experience for visitors.
TrainWhile there is a train station near the airport, it may require a transfer to reach the main area of Tsuruoka. This option is less popular due to the added complexity and time involved compared to direct shuttle services.TaxiTaxis are readily available at the airport and provide a direct and comfortable way to reach your destination in Tsuruoka. While more expensive than other options, they offer convenience, especially for those with heavy luggage or traveling in groups.Ride ShareRide-sharing services like Uber may be available in Tsuruoka, providing a flexible and often cost-effective way to travel. However, availability can vary, and it may not be as popular as traditional taxis or shuttle buses.Airport Shuttle BusThe Airport Shuttle Bus is a popular and convenient option for travelers. It offers direct service from the airport to various locations in Tsuruoka, including major hotels and the city center. Buses run frequently, and tickets can be purchased at the airport.OtherBicycles can be rented at the airport for those looking for an adventurous and eco-friendly way to explore the area. However, this option is less common and may not be suitable for all travelers.
In Tsuruoka, the most common Power Adaptor is Type A, Type B.
Shonai Airport
the terminal building
approximately 500 JPY for a day
No additional informationManaged by the local tourism boardLocation not specifiedaround 300 JPY for a few hoursNo additional informationJR Eastthe station premisesPrice not specifiedOpening hours: 24/7,suitable for short-term storage
Renowned for its excellent quality, this rice is grown in the fertile lands of Tsuruoka and is a staple in local cuisine.
A specialty soba dish featuring duck meat and green onions in a savory broth, highlighting the region's fresh ingredients.
A unique ramen style that incorporates local flavors, often featuring a rich soy sauce or miso broth and topped with local vegetables.
High-quality beef from the Yamagata region, known for its marbling and tenderness, often enjoyed as steak or in shabu-shabu.
A local variation of soba noodles made from buckwheat, often served chilled with dipping sauce or in a hot broth.
Fresh sushi made with local seafood, often featuring seasonal fish and traditional preparation methods.
A comforting soup made with local miso and seasonal vegetables, reflecting the region's agricultural bounty.
Shonai Rice Crackers (Senbei) - Made from locally grown Shonai rice, these crispy snacks are a delicious and authentic souvenir.Dewa Sanzan Omamori - Protective charms from the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, symbolizing blessings and spiritual significance.Tsuruoka Sake - Premium sake brewed using the region's pristine water and high-quality rice, perfect for sake enthusiasts.Handcrafted Shonai Lacquerware - Beautifully designed lacquerware items, such as bowls or trays, showcasing traditional craftsmanship.Dadachamame Snacks - Specialty edamame (soybeans) unique to the region, available in dried or snack form.Haguro Cedar Incense - Fragrant incense made from the sacred cedar trees of Mount Haguro, ideal for meditation or relaxation.Tsuruoka Pickles (Tsukemono) - Locally made pickled vegetables, such as nozawana or daikon, offering a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.Shonai Indigo-Dyed Textiles - Hand-dyed scarves, handkerchiefs, or fabrics using the traditional indigo-dyeing technique of the region.Dewa Sanzan Postcards or Artwork - Scenic postcards or prints featuring the iconic Dewa Sanzan mountains and their spiritual significance.Local Wasabi Products - Fresh or processed wasabi grown in the region, known for its high quality and authentic flavor.
If you ever find yourself in Japan during winter,Sapporo-shi is a city that wraps you in a cozy,spirited embrace unlike anywhere else. Imagine crisp,snowy streets lined with softly glowing lanterns,the air tinged with the scent of pine and sizzling street food. The city hums with a lively yet laid-back energy—locals chatting over steaming bowls of miso ramen or clinking glasses of rich,locally brewed beer. It’s a place where modern city life meets nature’s quiet beauty,all under a sky that often blushes pink at sunset.
Walking through Odori Park,you’ll hear the crunch of fresh snow beneath your boots and catch glimpses of intricate ice sculptures shimmering in the cold air,especially during the famous Snow Festival. The architecture is a charming mix of clean,contemporary lines and historic European influences,giving the city a unique personality that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Cafés spill warm light onto the streets,inviting you in to savor Hokkaido’s creamy dairy treats or a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
What really makes Sapporo special is its genuine warmth—people here are friendly without being overbearing,proud of their city’s rich culture and natural bounty. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling Nijo Market tasting fresh seafood or hiking nearby trails that open up to breathtaking views,Sapporo feels like a place that invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and savor every moment.
If you ever find yourself craving a place where the sea breeze carries a hint of salt and the streets hum with a gentle,timeless rhythm,Hakodate is where you want to be. This city feels like a cozy conversation between old Japan and the world beyond,with its charming mix of historic wooden houses and colorful markets bustling with fresh seafood. Walking through the morning market,you can almost taste the ocean in the air—crisp,briny,and alive with the chatter of vendors offering plump scallops and glistening squid. It’s a sensory feast that wakes you up better than any coffee.
As the day unfolds,the city’s character reveals itself in the soft glow of the red brick warehouses by the harbor and the winding streets of Motomachi,where you can spot old churches and quaint cafes tucked between cherry blossoms. There’s a peacefulness here,but also a quiet energy,like the city is gently inviting you to slow down and savor every moment. And then,when night falls,the view from Mount Hakodate is nothing short of magical—thousands of twinkling lights spread out below,like a sea of stars you can almost reach out and touch.
Hakodate’s charm isn’t just in its sights but in its flavors,too. Don’t miss trying the local specialty,shio ramen,with its delicate,salty broth that perfectly captures the essence of the sea. It’s a city that feels warm and welcoming,where every corner has a story,and every meal tastes like a celebration of the coast. Trust me,once you’ve been,Hakodate stays with you long after you’ve left.
If you ever find yourself wandering through Sendai,you’ll immediately notice this calm yet lively rhythm that pulses through the city. It’s a place where modern life blends effortlessly with nature’s quiet presence—giant zelkova trees line the streets,their leaves whispering in the breeze,and the scent of fresh greenery mingles with the faint aroma of grilled beef from local eateries. The city feels welcoming,like an old friend who’s both relaxed and quietly proud of its rich history.
Walking through Sendai,you’ll hear the gentle hum of daily life:the chatter of locals sipping coffee in cozy cafes,the distant clang of a festival drum,and the soft rustle of leaves in the nearby parks. The city’s character shines brightest during the Tanabata Festival,when colorful streamers flutter above the streets,filling the air with a festive buzz and a sense of shared joy. But even outside festival season,there’s a warmth in the way people move and interact here—unhurried,genuine,and kind.
Food lovers will find themselves enchanted by Sendai’s culinary scene. Imagine biting into juicy,tender gyutan (grilled beef tongue),a local specialty that’s smoky and rich,paired with a cold glass of sake or a crisp local beer. The markets buzz with fresh seafood and seasonal produce,inviting you to taste the region’s bounty. Sendai isn’t just a city to visit—it’s a place to feel,savor,and remember long after you’ve left.
If you ever find yourself craving a place where the rhythm of life slows just enough to savor every moment,Niigata is that kind of city. Nestled along the Sea of Japan,it greets you with a fresh,salty breeze that carries the promise of adventure and comfort all at once. Walking through its streets,you’ll notice the gentle hum of fishing boats returning with the day’s catch,mingling with the chatter of locals at cozy izakayas. There’s a warmth here—not just in the people,but in the way the city embraces its natural beauty and rich traditions.
Niigata’s character shines brightest in its food scene. Imagine biting into the softest,most fragrant rice you’ve ever tasted—this city’s famed for its rice paddies,and the sake brewed from them is equally divine. The markets overflow with fresh seafood,from glistening squid to plump crabs,and the flavors feel like a direct line to the sea. In winter,the snow blankets the landscape,turning the city into a quiet,white wonderland where steaming bowls of hearty ramen and hot sake feel like a warm hug.
What really makes Niigata stand out is its blend of old and new. You can wander through historic districts with wooden warehouses turned into art spaces or catch a lively festival where traditional music and dance fill the air. It’s a place that invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and connect—with nature,with culture,and with a side of Japan that feels both authentic and inviting.
If you ever find yourself craving a moment of serene beauty mixed with a touch of timeless tradition,Matsushima is the place to be. Imagine standing on a quiet shore,the salty breeze gently brushing your face as you gaze out at a scattering of pine-covered islets dotting the sparkling bay. It’s like stepping into a living painting,where every angle offers a new,breathtaking view. The soft lapping of waves against the rocks and the distant call of seabirds create a peaceful soundtrack that instantly slows your pace.
Wandering through Matsushima,you’ll notice how the town effortlessly blends nature and culture. The scent of fresh seafood mingles with the earthy aroma of pine trees,inviting you to savor local delicacies like freshly grilled oysters or a bowl of steaming,delicate clam soup. The historic temples and shrines,with their weathered wooden beams and mossy stone lanterns,whisper stories of centuries past,grounding you in a deep sense of place.
What really makes Matsushima special is its gentle rhythm—there’s no rush here. Locals move with a calm grace,welcoming visitors with warm smiles and a quiet pride in their surroundings. Whether you’re cruising the bay on a small boat,exploring quaint streets lined with artisan shops,or simply sitting on a bench watching the sun dip behind the islands,Matsushima invites you to breathe deeply,soak it all in,and feel connected to something beautifully simple and enduring.
Tokyo feels like stepping into a living,breathing mosaic where tradition and futurism dance side by side. The moment you arrive,you’re swept up in a vibrant energy that hums through neon-lit streets and quiet temple gardens alike. Imagine the buzz of Shibuya Crossing,where hundreds of people move in perfect chaos,the air tinged with the scent of sizzling street food and fresh cherry blossoms in spring. It’s a city that never quite sleeps,yet somehow offers pockets of serene calm if you know where to look.
Walking through Tokyo,you’ll hear a symphony of sounds—from the rhythmic clatter of trains to the soft murmur of locals chatting over steaming bowls of ramen. The city’s character is a fascinating blend of meticulous order and playful creativity. You can find centuries-old shrines nestled between sleek skyscrapers,and quirky themed cafes that feel like stepping into another world. The taste of Tokyo is unforgettable too—whether it’s the delicate umami of sushi at a tiny neighborhood spot or the comforting warmth of matcha-flavored sweets.
What makes Tokyo truly unique is how it embraces contrasts without missing a beat. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in sprawling shopping districts,then find quiet reflection in a moss-covered garden. The people,warm and respectful,add a layer of kindness that makes the city feel welcoming despite its size. If you’re curious,open-hearted,and ready to explore,Tokyo will surprise you at every turn and leave you with stories you’ll want to share again and again.
Shops may sell counterfeit or low-quality items as authentic local crafts or specialties, such as fake Shonai rice or knockoff Tsuruoka lacquerware.
Some taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists by taking unnecessarily long routes or charging inflated fares, especially if the tourists are unfamiliar with the area.
Some restaurants may add hidden charges or inflate prices for tourists, especially if the menu is not clearly priced or available in English.
Individuals may pose as charity workers or monks and pressure tourists into making donations for fake causes.
Tourists may be invited to participate in a 'traditional tea ceremony' and then charged an exorbitant fee afterward, far above the usual cost.
Japan has very strict drug laws, and this applies to both recreational and prescription drugs. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, is strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation. Even some over-the-counter or prescription medications that are legal in other countries may be restricted in Japan. Tourists should check Japan's regulations on medications before bringing them into the country.
In Tsuruoka, Japan, smoking is generally prohibited in many public spaces, including train stations, public parks, and certain streets. Designated smoking areas are provided in some locations, and smokers are expected to use these areas. Smoking while walking on the streets is considered socially unacceptable and may be subject to fines in certain areas. Tourists should look for clearly marked smoking zones and avoid smoking in non-designated areas.
Vaping is treated similarly to smoking in Tsuruoka and across Japan. It is restricted in public spaces, and the use of e-cigarettes is only allowed in designated smoking areas. Additionally, importing or using nicotine-containing e-liquids without proper authorization is illegal in Japan. Tourists should ensure that their vaping devices and liquids comply with Japanese regulations.
9.3 °C / 48.74 °F
119000
5/5
Japanese Yen (JPY)
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