Tsuruga Travel Tips

2 of 2 in Fukui Prefecture

Tsuruga (敦賀) is a peaceful city in Fukui Prefecture, known for its long history as an international port. Once a major stop on the Kitamaebune shipping route, it connected Kyoto with the Sea of Japan. Later, it became a gateway to Europe via the Trans-Siberian Railway. Today, it's easily accessible as the new terminal of the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa. Around the port, visitors can explore museums, shrines, and waterfront parks.

Key attractions include the Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum, which honors the city’s role in helping Jewish and Polish refugees, and the Red Brick Warehouse, with a scenic diorama and local restaurants. The Tsuruga Railway Museum showcases the city’s role in Japan's early train network. Don’t miss Kehi Jingu Shrine with its famous torii gate, the Tsuruga Municipal Museum, and the beautiful Kehi no Matsubara Pine Grove, a white sand beach lined with pine trees.

Getting around

In Tsuruga, it’s easy to get around. You can walk from Tsuruga Station to the port in about 30 minutes. It’s a nice walk if you enjoy exploring on foot.

There’s also a tourist bus called the Gurutto Tsuruga Loop Bus. It stops at all the main sights. The bus runs once an hour on weekdays and twice an hour on weekends and holidays. A ride costs 200 yen, or you can get a 1-day pass for 500 yen.