Tsuruga
Tsuruga, Japan is a charming and historic port city on the Sea of Japan, a place that has long flourished as a hub of trade between Japan and continental Asia. With a history that dates back to the Nara era (710-794), Tsuruga has a rich past as a gateway to Europe via Russia. Today, it is a city that beautifully balances a rich natural harbor with a vibrant local culture, making it an excellent destination for those who want to experience a unique slice of Japan.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock at the Tsuruga Port, which is a large, natural harbor. The port has a multipurpose international terminal that can accommodate large ships. However, due to its status as a commercial and industrial port, you are not permitted to walk off the ship and into the town. A shuttle bus will be provided by the port, which will take you from the gangway to a central location in the city, typically the Tsuruga Station or a designated "zero point." The ride is short and easy, and the shuttle is a great way to get to the city center.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Tsuruga Port has a dedicated cruise passenger wharf, which is a clean and safe open-air setup. While there is no large, permanent terminal building at the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops, kiosks, and vendors right on the waterfront.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
While there is no main terminal, the area right by the pier is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find a small welcome area with local volunteers. Public restrooms are available. The port also hosts a "pier-side market" on cruise ship days, where you can find a variety of local vendors selling art, jewelry, and souvenirs. The port offers free Wi-Fi, and tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the pier.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Japanese. While you will find that English is spoken in the main tourist areas and at the cruise terminal, it is not as universally spoken as in some other countries. It is highly recommended to have a few basic Japanese phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Konnichiwa (kon-ni-chi-wa) - Hello
Arigatou (a-ri-ga-to) - Thank you
Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) - Excuse me
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka) - Do you speak English?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops, cash is still the preferred method of payment at many small shops, local markets, and for street food. It is highly recommended to have some Yen on hand. ATMs that accept international cards can be found in the terminal, at post offices, and in convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the city center of Tsuruga, you have a few options:
Shuttle Bus: The port provides a shuttle bus that takes you to the Tsuruga Station or a designated "zero point" in the city center. This is the most recommended way to get to the city center.
Train: The train is a great way to get around the city and to other parts of the region. The Tsuruga Station is a major transit hub.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The ride to the city center will be expensive, and it is a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before you get in.
Public Bus: Tsuruga has a public bus system that is a very affordable way to get around the city. The bus stop is located near the cruise terminal, and you can buy a ticket on board.
♿ Accessibility
Tsuruga has an accessibility rating of 4 out of 10. While the cruise pier is modern and the shuttle bus is accessible, many of the city's streets, with their uneven surfaces and lack of curb cuts, can be a challenge. The main attractions, like the Kehi Shrine, may have stairs and other barriers that are difficult to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town from the cruise port is to take the shuttle bus provided by the port. It's a short and easy ride that will take you directly to a central location, where you can then explore on foot or get public transportation to other parts of the city.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Tsuruga, especially at major tourist attractions, train stations, and shopping centers. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Matsumoto Kiyoshi: There are many Matsumoto Kiyoshi pharmacies throughout the city, and they are a great place to get everything from over-the-counter medications to cosmetics.
Welcia Drugstore: This is another major drugstore chain that you can find in the city.
✨ Authentic Experience
Visit the Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum and the Red Brick Warehouse: Tsuruga has a fascinating history as a port of refuge for Jewish refugees during World War II. The Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum tells this incredible story. Afterwards, you can walk to the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse, a historic building that is now a restaurant hall and a diorama museum.
Dine on Local Sauce Katsu-Don: For a truly authentic culinary experience, seek out a local restaurant and try a dish of sauce katsu-don, a local specialty of Fukui Prefecture. It's a bowl of rice topped with a deep-fried pork cutlet and a savory sauce.
Explore the Kehi Shrine: The Kehi Shrine, which dates back to 702, is a beautiful and historic shrine that is a must-see. The shrine's main torii gate is one of the three largest wooden gates in Japan and is a fantastic photo opportunity.
Download Port Guide
To get a downloadable Essential Port Guide for Tsuruga, click on the button below:
