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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Tsuruoka.
Nestled among the rolling hills and shimmering coastlines of Japan’s western coast, Tsuruoka beckons to the curious traveler like a vibrant jewel in the rough.
With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and eclectic culture, this enchanting city promises an adventure that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on rugged mountain trails, a peaceful oasis in the midst of bustling city life, or a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine, Tsuruoka has something to offer every intrepid explorer.
So pack your bags, don a pair of sturdy boots, and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tsuruoka:
1. Mount Haguro
Mount Haguro is one of the three sacred mountains of Dewa and is located in Tsuruoka, Yamagata, Japan. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for both worshipers and tourists.
What to see or do: At the base of the mountain, visitors can explore the ancient Gojuto pagoda and the impressive Five-Storied Pagoda.
The hiking trail up the mountain leads through a peaceful cedar forest, with many notable sights along the way including the historic Taishido Hall and the largest thatched roof in Japan, known as Gassho-zukuri.
Don’t miss: The main attraction of Mount Haguro is the Sanjin Gosaiden Shrine at the summit. This awe-inspiring complex features several Shinto shrines and a museum exhibiting religious art and artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the mountain and prepare for varying weather conditions. It is also recommended to purchase a gohyaku rakan amulet from the Gojuto pagoda for good luck on the journey.
2. Tsuruoka Park
Tsuruoka Park is a spacious public park located in the heart of the city of Sendai, Japan.
What to see or do: The park features a wide variety of facilities and attractions, including walking paths, sports fields, a children’s playground, a rose garden, and a small zoo with animals such as monkeys and deer.
One of the main highlights of the park is the ruins of Tsuruga Castle, a historic fortress that dates back to the 17th century and was once the seat of power for the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking view of the city from the top of the Tsuruga Castle ruins.
The panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains and Sendai Bay is truly stunning.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Tsuruoka City Museum, which is located within the park grounds.
The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, and features exhibits on topics ranging from traditional crafts to modern art and music.
Also, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the park is quite expansive and there’s a lot to see and explore.
3. Yamagata Prefectural Sagae Art Museum
Yamagata Prefectural Sagae Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Tsuruoka, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum has a wide range of contemporary art exhibits, featuring paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia displays. Visitors can explore the beautiful art galleries showcasing works by local and international artists.
There is also a permanent exhibition showcasing the works of the renowned Japanese artist Kyuichi Tsunoda.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the tranquil Japanese garden located adjacent to the museum. The stunning garden is a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation, providing a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.
Insider travel tips:
4. Yunohama Onsen
Yunohama Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Indulge in the therapeutic hot baths and relax in the stunning scenery that surrounds the resort.
Take a dip in the saltwater baths that overlook the Sea of Japan, watch the sunset from the open-air hot springs, and visit the foot baths to enjoy a unique spa experience.
Don’t miss: The Yunohama Onsen Festival held every year on January 7th, where the whole town celebrates the hot spring waters by pouring them on the nearby Shinto shrine.
Check out the local seafood restaurants that serve the freshest seafood right out of the sea.
Insider travel tips: Visit Yunohama Onsen during weekdays to avoid the crowds during weekends and holiday seasons. Take advantage of the discounts offered by the inns, ryokans, and hotels for the overnight stay.
Try the unique and regional dish called “kyassha” that’s a mix of squid, seaweed, and chili pepper. Finally, don’t forget to bring a towel and slip-on shoes for changing as you move from one bath to another.
5. Shonai Shrine
Shonai Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the main shrine building and admire its intricate architectural details, as well as stroll around the surrounding gardens and ponds.
Shonai Shrine is also known for its impressive collection of sacred Shinto artifacts on display.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the nearby Torii Gate and the imposing stone steps leading up to the shrine, which are lined with towering cedar trees.
Also, keep your eyes peeled for the resident deer that roam freely around the shrine grounds.
Insider travel tips: Visiting Shonai Shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your experience.
Additionally, take advantage of the small shops and restaurants located near the shrine, which offer traditional souvenirs and snacks that make great souvenirs.
6. Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium
Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium is a popular aquarium located in Tsuruoka, Japan, which is home to a diverse range of marine life.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibits such as the jellyfish tunnel, sea otter pool, and a touch tank where you can interact with rays and sharks.
The aquarium is also famous for its dolphin and sea lion performances, which are held at scheduled times throughout the day.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the amazing dolphin show, where these intelligent marine mammals showcase their agility, grace, and intelligence.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best view of the performances. The aquarium is easily accessible by bus or train.
Visitors should also check the feeding schedules of the animals to make the most of their visit.
7. Mogami River Boating
Mogami River Boating is a popular activity in Tsuruoka, located in the Yamagata Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can board wooden boats that glide down the Mogami River, the fourth-longest river in Japan. The boat rides offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery, including lush greenery, canyons, and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the unique “Kotatsu boat,” which features a table with a built-in heater to keep passengers warm during the colder months.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during cherry blossom season (late April-early May) or the autumn foliage season (late October-early November) for the most picturesque views.
Also, bring a camera and wear comfortable shoes as there may be some walking involved.
8. Kamo Aquarium Dolphin Show
The Kamo Aquarium Dolphin Show is a mesmerizing display of the intelligence and agility of dolphins.
What to see or do: Watch as the highly trained dolphins perform a captivating routine that includes jumping through hoops, spinning in circles, and even playing catch.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the show is the synchronized swimming routine where the dolphins move in perfect unison with each other, accompanied by music that sets the mood for this awe-inspiring performance.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good seat as the show can get busy during peak times. Consider purchasing a combo ticket that includes access to other areas of the aquarium for a full day of entertainment.
9. Tachiyazawa Lake
Tachiyazawa Lake is a stunning mountain lake located in Tsuruoka, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking around the lake, fishing, and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a boat ride on the lake to fully appreciate its beauty and tranquility.
Insider travel tips:
10. Dewa Sanzan Shrine
Dewa Sanzan Shrine is a sacred site located in Tsuruoka in Yamagata Prefecture. It consists of three mountaintop shrines – Hagurosan, Gassan, and Yudonosan – which together are known as Dewa Sanzan.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike through the wooded mountains to reach each of the three shrines. Each shrine has a unique atmosphere and features various religious artifacts.
The trails are particularly beautiful during the autumn season with vibrant fall foliage.
Don’t miss: One of the most notable features of the Dewa Sanzan Shrine is the unique five-story pagoda located in the Hagurosan shrine.
Visitors can also participate in a traditional purification ritual at the Yudonosan shrine.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear appropriate shoes for hiking as the trails can be steep and rocky.
It is also recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks as there are limited options for purchasing food on the trails.
Those interested in Japanese culture may want to stay at a traditional ryokan inn in the nearby town of Tsuruoka.
11. Tsuruoka City Museum
Tsuruoka City Museum is a fascinating museum that highlights the rich history and culture of Tsuruoka City in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the art, crafts, and daily life of the people of Tsuruoka over the centuries.
Visitors can explore interactive displays of traditional farming tools, household objects, clothing, and more. The museum also has a collection of ancient pottery, weapons, and armor, as well as a gallery of contemporary art.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the replica of the Sugawa Rice Paddy, a unique exhibit that demonstrates the complex irrigation system used by Tsuruoka farmers in the past.
Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful view of Mt. Chokai from the museum garden.
Insider travel tips: The museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. Admission fee is 230 yen for adults and 100 yen for children.
English language exhibits and audio guides are available.
If you have time, consider visiting the nearby Dewa Sanzan Shrine or exploring the local shopping street known for its traditional Japanese sweets.
12. Shonai Movie Village
A movie set museum and theme park in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the various movie sets with buildings and props that recreate old Japanese towns and samurai-era villages.
Enjoy interactive experiences such as dressing up in samurai costumes, trying on geisha make-up, and participating in a ninja training course.
Don’t miss: The chance to watch stage performances, sword fighting, and traditional Japanese dances that take place throughout the day on the main stage.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Make sure to bring sunscreen, hat, and an umbrella as some of the sets are in open areas where there is little shade.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty, “shottsuru” fermented fish sauce, which is a Yamagata delicacy.
13. Tsuruoka Folklore Museum
Tsuruoka Folklore Museum is a historic museum located in the heart of Tsuruoka City, Japan that showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, including traditional crafts, clothing, furniture, and tools. You can also see the reconstruction of a traditional Japanese farmhouse.
Don’t miss: The museum’s great masterpieces of Ainu embroidery are a must-see.
Don’t forget to check out the display of traditional Japanese swords and armor that are rare to find outside of Japan.
Insider travel tips: For an unforgettable experience, catch the daily kagura dance performances held in the museum’s courtyard. This museum is a must-visit if you are looking to discover the secrets of Japanese folk culture and history.
14. Shuken Peasant House
Shuken Peasant House is a traditional Japanese house located in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture.
What to see or do: Tourists can take a guided tour of the house and get an insight into the life of a Japanese peasant during the Edo Period.
Visitors can see various tools and items used in their daily life, including a pair of large straw sandals that peasants wore while working in the rice fields.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to taste fresh rice cakes made by the guide right in front of visitors.
The cakes are made using the same method that has been passed down for generations and are a delicious way to end the tour.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit the Shuken Peasant House during the peak season which runs from April to November.
15. Kamo Aquarium Penguin March
Kamo Aquarium Penguin March is a unique event that allows visitors to march alongside a parade of adorable penguins.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the penguins waddling through the aquarium as they head towards the larger main tank. Along the way, visitors can also pose for photos with the penguins.
Don’t miss: The highlight of this event is when visitors get to watch the penguins dive and swim in the main tank, showcasing their impressive aquatic skills.
Insider travel tips: To maximize your time with the penguins, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. It’s also best to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the aquarium can get crowded during the event.