Tsuruga is a quiet port city on Japan’s western coast with a rich seafaring past.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Tsuruga, a mid-sized city in Fukui Prefecture, is a historically significant port city located on the Sea of Japan coast. For centuries, Tsuruga has served as a vital maritime hub, connecting Japan with continental Asia and, notably, as a crucial link to Europe via the Trans-Siberian Railway in the early 20th century. This rich past is deeply ingrained in the city's identity, especially its moving role as the "Port of Humanity" during WWII, accepting thousands of Jewish refugees.
Today, Tsuruga offers cruise visitors a captivating blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. From ancient shrines with towering torii gates to beautifully restored historical warehouses and bustling fish markets, Tsuruga provides a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known, yet incredibly impactful, part of Japan's heritage. Its serene atmosphere, contrasting with its vibrant history, makes it a truly unique stop on any Japanese itinerary.
Explore the Port of Humanity the Museum, a deeply moving and important site. Take your time and enjoy this stop at a relaxed pace. Take time to look around and enjoy the visit.
Tip: Allow quiet time to reflect on the Polish orphans and Jewish refugees sheltered here.
Step back in time at the Red Brick Warehouse. Built in 1905, these beautifully preserved warehouses now house a fascinating diorama museum depicting the prosperous past as a port town, along with lovely cafes.
Tip: The diorama is incredibly detailed and captivating, offering a miniature journey through the history.
Visit Kehi-Jingu Shrine, one of the most important. It's famous for its massive, vermillion wooden torii gate, which stands an impressive 11 meters high. The shrine dates back to 702 AD.
Tip: Take time to walk around the serene shrine grounds and appreciate the grandeur of the torii gate.
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Nihonkai Sakana-machi Fish Market. With over 70 establishments, you can find a vast array of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and enjoy interaction with local vendors.
Tip: This is an excellent place to sample fresh-from-the-waters sushi, grilled seafood, or other local specialties.
Find tranquility at Kehi-no-Matsubara, one of Japan's three greatest pine groves. This nationally designated Site of Scenic Beauty boasts thousands of Japanese red and black pines along a white-sand beach.
Tip: It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the fresh sea air and beautiful natural scenery.
Depending on your interest, you might delve into traditional Japanese crafts or visit other museums like the City Museum or the Railway Museum. Take time to look around and enjoy the visit.
Tip: Check the specific offerings and locations, as some workshops or museums might require pre-booking or transportation further afield.
Aboard
Westerdam
From
Tokyo, Japan
2 Sailings
Mar 28 - Apr 11, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Azamara Pursuit
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Aug 6, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Azamara Pursuit
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Aug 6, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Sapphire Princess
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Aug 12, 2028
Aboard
Sapphire Princess
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Aug 12, 2028
Aboard
Sapphire Princess
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Jul 30, 2028
Aboard
Diamond Princess
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Oct 28, 2028
Aboard
Diamond Princess
From
Yokohama, Japan
1 Sailing
Nov 13, 2027
Aboard
Seabourn Encore
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Oct 13, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Encore
From
Tokyo, Japan
1 Sailing
Oct 13, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
