Reader’s Question: I went on a trip to Tsuruga. There’s an old-fashioned Al Plaza, a beach with pine trees, and the red brick warehouse feels more like a small diorama than an actual warehouse. I also tried ramen made with
sea bream broth, but honestly, it didn’t suit my taste since I’m not fond of fish. The crab and fugu were delicious, but since I ate at a proper restaurant, it cost nearly 8,000 yen per person for the course meal. The only highlight was seeing the sea from the summit of Kanegasaki. With the nuclear power plant being offline, it seems there’s more demand for accommodations catering to transfer tourists and touring guests rather than workers. It was more vibrant than Maibara. By the way, where does Tsuruga rank among the cities in Fukui?
Exploring Tsuruga: A Hidden Gem in Fukui Prefecture
So, I recently took a trip to Tsuruga, and boy, was it an experience! When I think of Fukui, I usually picture quiet towns, beautiful coastlines, and, of course, the fresh seafood that the region is famous for. Honestly, though, my trip to Tsuruga turned out to be a mixed bag of surprises and delights. Let me take you through my adventure, and maybe you’ll add Tsuruga to your travel bucket list or at least feel a little less alone if your food choices didn’t go as planned.
First Impressions: Old Meets New
Upon arriving in Tsuruga, the first thing that caught my eye was the old-fashioned Al Plaza. Now, let me tell you, this place has a vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s like one of those quaint shopping centers that has managed to keep its charm intact while modern stores come and go. I strolled around, soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere, and it felt so cozy—like a warm hug from the past. I couldn’t help but think, how often do we find places like this?
Then there’s the beach with its picturesque pine trees that stretch out along the coastline. Honestly, if you’re looking for that perfect Instagram shot, this is it! The juxtaposition of the greenery against the blue ocean is simply stunning. I could have spent hours just wandering along the shore, listening to the waves, and getting lost in my own thoughts. It’s a lovely spot for a peaceful getaway, especially if you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of bigger cities.
The Red Brick Warehouse: A Unique Experience
Now, let’s talk about the red brick warehouse. It truly felt like a small diorama rather than an actual warehouse. I mean, it’s not like I was expecting a bustling marketplace, but the whole scene was so quaint! It’s a perfect example of Tsuruga’s charm. I half-expected to see some tiny figurines moving about—maybe a little vendor selling miniature ramen!
Inside, there were a few cute shops and cafes, which is always a win for me. I love supporting local businesses and discovering hidden treasures. I ended up picking up some unique souvenirs that I’m sure my friends will love. Sometimes it’s those little finds that make a trip so memorable.
Ramen Mishaps: A Culinary Adventure
Now, let’s get to the food—oh boy, the food! I couldn’t visit Tsuruga without trying their ramen, especially since I heard they have a specialty made with sea bream broth. Now, here’s the thing: I’m not too fond of fish. I thought, “How bad could it be? Everyone seems to rave about it!” So, I gave it a whirl. Spoiler alert: not my cup of tea. The fishy flavor was a bit too strong for my palate.
But not all was lost! I also tried crab and fugu at a proper restaurant, and let me tell you, that was a game changer! The crab was fresh and succulent, and the fugu—oh my goodness, it was delicious! But let’s be real, it set me back nearly 8,000 yen for the course meal. Worth it? Maybe not if you’re on a budget, but it certainly felt like a special treat. Sometimes, you just have to splurge a little!
Nature’s Majesty: Kanegasaki Summit
After indulging in some local cuisine, I wanted to balance it all out with a bit of nature. So, I hiked up to the summit of Kanegasaki. And wow, the view! Standing there, looking out over the sea, it felt like all my worries just melted away. The vastness of the ocean reflecting the sky is one of those moments that make you stop and appreciate life. It was the highlight of my trip for sure.
There’s something magical about being on a summit, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling so small in the grand scheme of things. It’s a reminder of how beautiful and vast our world is. If you ever find yourself in Tsuruga, I highly recommend making the hike. Pack a small snack and just enjoy the serenity.
Tsuruga vs. Maibara: A Quick Comparison
While I was there, I couldn’t help but compare Tsuruga to Maibara. Now, Maibara has its own charm, but Tsuruga felt a bit more vibrant. The local culture seemed more alive, especially with the recent changes due to the nuclear power plant being offline. It seems there’s been a shift toward accommodating transfer tourists and touring guests rather than workers. I think it really adds to the energy of the place.
During my stay, I noticed more places opening up and accommodating visitors. It felt like Tsuruga was ready to showcase its beauty to the world. It’s the kind of place where you can really immerse yourself and experience something different.
The Current Landscape: A Word of Advice
As I reflect on my trip, I think it’s important to mention that Tsuruga is still a bit of a hidden gem. It’s not as crowded as some other tourist spots in Japan, which I actually appreciated. It allowed me to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds. But do check accommodation availability—especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons. You might want to book in advance to secure a good deal!
And if you’re planning your itinerary, I would suggest mixing in some lesser-known spots as well. Grab a bike and explore the coastal paths, or even chat with the locals about their favorite hidden restaurants. Sometimes, the best experiences come from recommendations that aren’t found in guidebooks.
A Final Thought: Is Tsuruga Worth It?
So, where does Tsuruga rank among other cities in Fukui? In my humble opinion, it’s definitely worth a visit. Each corner of this town tells a story, and the blend of nature, culture, and delicious (if not always to my taste) food makes for a memorable experience. Sure, you might have to navigate some culinary landmines like I did, but that’s all part of the adventure, right?
If you’re ever in the area, make sure to take the time to explore. Who knows, maybe you’ll fall in love with its charm just like I did—even with a few hiccups along the way. Travel is all about the unexpected moments, and Tsuruga had plenty of those for me.
Until next time, happy travels, and don’t forget to embrace the journey, food quirks and all!
