Overview
Tsuruoka is a traditional city on the Sea of Japan coast where Shugendo mountain worship has been practiced for centuries at Dewa Sanzan. The area is famous for its sokushinbutsu mummies—Buddhist monks who achieved self-mummification through extreme ascetic practice—as well as hot springs like Yunohama and distinctive local foods like dadacha-mame edamame.
Day Trips · Food · History · Museums · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Standard Japanese SIM cards and mobile data plans are available. City has multiple WiFi access points in tourist areas.
Food
Tsuruoka's signature is dadacha-mame, a local edamame variety. Coastal location means excellent fresh seafood. Jellyfish ramen at Kamo Aquarium is a unique local specialty.
Money
Japan uses Japanese Yen (JPY). Business hotels start around ¥7,000. Kamo Aquarium admission is ¥1,000. Overnight bus round trip costs ¥13,570.
Transport
Shonai Airport shuttle runs 30 minutes to Tsuruoka for ¥740. The JR Uetsu Line connects Tsuruoka to Sakata and coastal destinations. Overnight buses from Tokyo take about 8 hours.
