Traditional Japanese house guesthouse
"Hobo-ie"
It mostly starts from Hobo-ie
Walking around Tsuruga town
Tsuruga is a port town where the sea and railways, prayers and history intersect.
Aioi-cho, where houses are now mostly built, was once a thriving center of Tsuruga's economy and culture.
Stepping out the front door, you'll find yourself on Museum Street, lined with historic buildings. A short walk from there, the scenery slowly changes as you approach Kehi Shrine and Tsuruga Port.
Instead of rushing through famous tourist spots, take in the old-fashioned townscape, stop by interesting shops, and feel the breeze blowing from the harbor.
Here's a look at the unique experiences you can only have by staying overnight in Tsuruga.
Walking as if you're living there
Tsuruga Museum Street
Tsuruga Museum Street, which is almost entirely lined with houses, is a street where historical buildings and modern life blend together naturally.
Tsuruga City Museum, housed in a stately building that was once used as a bank, is just one example of the many attractions in the area. You'll find the Minato Tsuruga Float Museum, sake breweries, traditional shops, and unique stores scattered throughout the town.
A glimpse into the peaceful and tranquil daily life of a port town, quite different from the glamorous tourist destinations.
The quiet streets in the morning and the streets as the lights come on at dusk each have their own unique charm.
My exploration of Tsuruga begins almost the moment I step out the front door of my house.
Main spots in the surrounding area
• Tsuruga City Museum • Minato Tsuruga Float Museum • Seimei Shrine • Traditional shops and restaurants • Historic townhouses and buildings
Passing through the large torii gate, we entered the quiet shrine grounds.
Kehi Shrine
Kehi Shrine, affectionately known as "Keisan" by the people of Tsuruga, has long been a beloved landmark.
The approximately 11-meter-tall wooden torii gate standing at the entrance to the shrine grounds is one of Tsuruga's iconic landmarks. Passing through the torii gate, you enter a tranquil space that feels like a sudden change of atmosphere, despite being in the middle of the city.
Visiting in the morning is especially recommended.
If you take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds during off-peak hours, you can enjoy the sounds of the trees and birdsong, and start your day in peace.
A place steeped in history and literature, said to have been visited by Matsuo Basho.
This is a shrine I highly recommend visiting if you ever come to Tsuruga.
Here are some ways to spend your time.
- Visiting the shrine as part of a morning stroll - Taking photos of the large torii gate and the shrine grounds - Strolling around the shops in the temple town - A quiet evening walk through the town
Feel the sea breeze and history
Tsuruga Port/Kanegasaki Area
Tsuruga is a port town that has long been a link between Japan and the Asian continent.
A boardwalk runs along the coast of Kanegasaki Green Space, allowing visitors to stroll leisurely while enjoying views of Tsuruga Bay and the harbor.
The surrounding area is home to several facilities that tell the story of Tsuruga's railway and port history.
The Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouses have a history of over 100 years.
〇 The Tsuruga Railway Museum, a replica of the former Tsuruga Port Station building.
The Tsuruga Museum, a port of humanity, tells the story of the interactions between Polish orphans, Jewish refugees carrying "visas for life," and the citizens of Tsuruga.
By visiting each of these facilities, you can learn how Tsuruga has welcomed people, goods, and cultures throughout history.
After learning about history, take a break while gazing at the sea.
On sunny evenings, the harbor is bathed in a soft light.
Main spots in the surrounding area
・Kanegasaki Green Space ・Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum ・Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse ・Tsuruga Railway Museum ・Kanegasaki Shrine ・Historical buildings around Tsuruga Port
Take a little further
Kehi no Matsubara
For those who want to enjoy the seaside scenery and the nature that is characteristic of Tsuruga, we recommend "Kehi no Matsubara," known as one of Japan's three great pine groves.
After passing through a vast pine forest, the Sea of Japan and a white sandy beach unfold before you. The blue sea, white sand, and the green of the approximately 17,000 pine trees combine to create a variety of scenes depending on the season and time of day. On a clear day, the blue of the sea and sky is beautiful, and at dusk, you can sometimes watch the sun sink below the horizon.
While Kehi no Matsubara is a popular swimming beach in the summer, its charm isn't limited to that season. In spring and autumn, you can enjoy leisurely strolls through the pine forest or walk along the sandy beach while feeling the sea breeze, spending peaceful time in nature regardless of the time of year. In winter, you can enjoy the powerful waves characteristic of the Sea of Japan and the tranquil scenery of the pine forest.
Recommended walking routes from Hobo-ie
Morning walking course
Estimated time required: Approximately 60-90 minutes
Almost home ↓
Tsuruga Museum Street ↓
Seimei Shrine ↓
Kehi Shrine ↓
Stroll through the temple town ↓
Almost home
This course allows you to enjoy a quiet morning in Tsuruga.
It's also a great place for a stroll before checking out.
A tour exploring the history of the port town
Estimated time required: Approximately 2-3 hours
Almost home ↓
Around Tsuruga City Museum ↓
Kanegasaki Green Space ↓
Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum ↓
Tsuruga Railway Museum ↓
Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse
You can enjoy Tsuruga's history, railways, and port culture all in one place.
If you plan to thoroughly explore the facility, please allow ample time for your visit.
Regarding travel
You can enjoy exploring the central city area and port area, which are almost entirely within walking distance of your home.
If you want to explore further, it's convenient to combine local buses, sightseeing buses, taxis, and shared bicycles.
Please choose a method that suits the weather, season, and your schedule for the day.
If you're unsure about your travel plans...
Please feel free to ask us if you have any questions about seasonal attractions, nearby restaurants, or places to stroll depending on the weather of the day.
We'll also share recommendations that you wouldn't find in a typical tourist guide, from the perspective of someone who lives in Tsuruga.
Use your home as your base and enjoy the port town of Tsuruga at your own pace.
*Opening hours, closing days, fees, and event details for each facility may change. Please check the official information of each facility before visiting.