Tsuruoka: Land of Dewa

04/10/2024

While autumn in the West brings to mind pumpkins, cinnamon, and Halloween, here in Tsuruoka, the season evokes thoughts of nameko-jiru miso soups, persimmons, and, of course, IMONI! 🍲🍂🍁

Imoni is a delicious yam-based soup or stew that’s especially popular in Yamagata Prefecture, though variations can be found in other regions as well. In the inner areas of Yamagata, the traditional imoni features beef and a soy-based broth. Here in Tsuruoka, however, we prefer a comforting pork and miso-based version.

This simple yet flavorful dish is best enjoyed in the company of family, friends, or coworkers. Visitors can savor this autumn staple at local restaurants like Takitaro and Naa, or at kaiseki-ryori spots such as Luna, Shinchaya and Suzune. Embrace the season with a warm bowl of imoni!

03/10/2024

Today, let's go back to Tsuruoka to talk about one of our beautiful places that doesn't get enough spotlight: Yura Onsen.
Recognized as one of Japan's 100 most beautiful beaches and 100 most beautiful sunsets, this National Health Onsen Resort is a must-visit.

The most iconic ryokan here is Yaotome, offering cozy European-style beds and a delicious breakfast—making it an ideal stop for anyone looking to soak in the breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and experience the lively fish auction (seri) at Yura Port. Don’t miss the chance to explore Hakusan Islet, where a charming shrine awaits, just an hour’s stroll from the beach.

Did you know that Tsuruoka boasts four National Health Onsen Resorts, making it the city with the most in Japan? With our stunning mountains, delectable cuisine, and rejuvenating hot springs, there’s no better way to unwind than by soaking in one of our onsen. 🌅🏖♨️🦀

01/10/2024

No, no, don't worry, you still are on Tsuruoka City's Official Tourism page, but today we wanted to introduce you to one of our partners of long-date: Niigata city. If you’re planning a trip to Tsuruoka and the stunning Dewa Sanzan, Niigata is an excellent transit destination that deserves a visit.

Just 1 hour and half from Tokyo by Shinkansen and a quick 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tsuruoka via the JR Local Express Inaho, Niigata is a gateway to exploring the rich culture of the Kitamaebune maritime route and the influences of Kyoto’s heritage along the Sea of Japan.

One highlight of your visit could be the Saito Residence, where you can enjoy performances by geigi—the local term for geisha. For sake lovers, a tour of the Imayotsukasa brewery offers a taste of some of Niigata's finest brews.

Culinary enthusiasts will find delightful similarities between Niigata and Tsuruoka. Both regions feature a mochi wrapped in bamboo leaves: Niigata’s sasadango is filled with sweet red bean paste, while Tsuruoka offers the sasamaki: a gelatinous rice cake soaked in ashy water then steamed inside a sasa leaf. Seafood lovers will also feel at home; just as in Tsuruoka, Niigata’s coastal cuisine is a highlight. While we favor dishes like kandara-jiru (black cod soup) and anko-jiru (angler fish soup), Niigata shines with its famous wappa-meshi—steamed fish rice.

With some of Japan’s best rice and sake, Niigata has much to share with visitors. If you're headed to Tsuruoka, don’t miss the chance to stop by Niigata. We promise you’ll love it!

For more information on visiting Niigata, check out their official tourist information website: https://www.nvcb.or.jp/multilingual/

30/09/2024

It's done! It's officially over! Mt. Haguro's pagoda is free from its reparation works and finally displays its raw beauty ! Next time will be in 20 years, so you now have plenty of time to admire this living proof of Mt. Haguro's Buddhist influence in the past.
For the occasion, let us share some of the most beautiful shots of our National Treasure 📸⛩⛰

08/08/2024

Find our recommended "Tohoku culinary trip" itinerary on our website. This trip idea is JR-pass friendly!

This is a tourist site for Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, which is rich in nature. It is packed with useful information essential for the best trip, including tourist spots such as hot springs and gourmet food, and seasonal events.

07/08/2024

🎆 Next Saturday, August 17th, we’ll be celebrating the 31st edition of the Akagawa Hanabi Taikai Fireworks Festival. 🎇
This 90-minute event is often called Japan’s "Most Moving Fireworks" for its moving rhythm and carefully chosen music. Each year, there are special events and performances that even surprise regular attendees. For instance, two years ago, the Pokémon Company wowed the crowd with an incredible drone performance featuring iconic Pokémon characters.

Although tickets are sold out, there is a free viewing area available for those who still want to enjoy the show. We recommend arriving early to secure a spot in this area.

31/07/2024

🏔️ UPDATE! 🥾
We are pleased to announce that the hiking trail from Mt. Gassan to Mt. Yudono, which was recently damaged by heavy rainfall, has now been cleared, and the warning measures have been lifted.

However, we would like to remind all visitors that this part of the Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage can be challenging. The route includes descending metal ladders, which can become slippery depending on the weather. This section of the trail can also be physically demanding, especially for those with less hiking experience.

Please exercise caution, take your time, and prioritize your safety. We wish you a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in the beautiful Dewa Sanzan mountains. 🏞️

29/07/2024

⚠️ WARNING! Rain-induced damages on the hiking trail from Mt. Gassan to Mt. Yudono ⚠️

Recently, record-breaking heavy rains have caused significant damage in the Tohoku region on the Japan Sea side, resulting in landslides along some sections of the Mt. Gassan to Mt. Yudono pilgrimage trail (including the upper part of Yudono-san Kamman Falls).

As of July 29, recovery work is underway. However, the affected area has become extremely narrow, making passage very dangerous.

For those planning to hike:

-Please refrain from starting your hike from the Yudono-san side.
-When descending from Mt. Gassan to the Yudono-san side, please go down toward the Shizu area.
We kindly ask for your cooperation. We will provide updates as the situation changes.

(information provided by the Dewa Sanzan shrine)

29/11/2023

Our apologies for the late announcement!
Kamo Aquarium has reopened to visitors since November 23rd. The power outage has been handled with and the jellyfish are now awaiting for you!
Come see the "Number 1 Jellyfish Collection" in the world! With more than 60 species exposed, Kamo Aquarium stands as the "biggest jellyfish aquarium" in the world!

28/11/2023

SCAFFOLDING TEMPORARILY REMOVED! 🥳️🎉
The Five-Storied Pagoda of Mt. Haguro, designated as a National Treasure, is currently undergoing renovation since May 2023. These periodic renovations, required every 20 years, will resume in spring 2025. However, the scaffolding, which envelops the pagoda throughout the year, is temporarily taken down during the snowy season to prevent the weight of snow from causing any damage. This year, the scaffolding was removed on November 8th and will be reinstalled at the conclusion of the snowy season (late April to early May). Therefore, if you wish to witness Mt. Haguro's pagoda in its uncovered state, now is the opportune time to visit!