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January 18, 2026 at 10:30 am
Event date:
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January 18, 2026 at 3:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Japan Sea Cold Cod Festival, locally known as Nihonkai Kan Tara Matsuri, celebrates one of Yamagata Prefecture’s most beloved winter traditions: dongara jiru, a hearty cold cod soup. The festival has been held for decades in Tsuruoka City, bringing together locals and tourists to enjoy this warming seasonal dish.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The tradition of preparing dongara jiru comes from the Shonai region, where fishing communities have long utilized every part of the cod in cooking, following a zero-waste philosophy. This practice ensures that nothing is wasted, and the soup’s rich flavors come from the liver, milt, and bones of the fish. Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity, drawing thousands of visitors eager to experience this regional culinary specialty.
Today, the festival not only celebrates food but also honors local fishing culture and seasonal traditions, providing a unique glimpse into Japan’s winter cuisine. It has become a cultural highlight for both locals and visiting travelers seeking authentic regional experiences.
Overview
The Japan Sea Cold Cod Festival 2026 will take place in mid-January, with the most specific date scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors can sample a variety of dongara jiru recipes prepared by local vendors, each offering unique flavors and techniques.
This festival is more than a food event—it’s a celebration of Tsuruoka’s fishing heritage and winter culinary culture. Along Ginza Street, visitors can explore the bustling market-like atmosphere, enjoy live cooking demonstrations, and even learn about the cod fishing practices that have shaped the region’s cuisine for generations.
The event is family-friendly, and while there is no entry fee, attendees are encouraged to bring cash to sample the different soup variations and enjoy other local specialties.
Highlights
- Sampling of various dongara jiru recipes from multiple vendors.
- Celebration of the zero-waste cooking philosophy, using every part of the cod.
- Live demonstrations showcasing local fishing and soup preparation techniques.
- Family-friendly winter event with a festive street atmosphere.
- Opportunity to explore Tsuruoka’s local culture, markets, and food traditions.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a unique regional winter dish not commonly found outside Yamagata.
- Witness and taste the results of traditional “nose-to-tail” cooking.
- Enjoy a lively festival atmosphere in a charming small-city setting.
- Perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic Japanese culinary experiences.
- Easy access and free entry make it an ideal day trip from nearby cities.
If you are coming to Japan or already in Japan, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Visitors are advised to arrive early to enjoy the best soup tasting and avoid long queues. The festival runs through the late morning into the early afternoon, making it perfect for a half-day trip.
Pricing
Entry: Free
- Attendees only need cash to purchase soup samples or other local foods.
- Individual soup servings typically cost ¥500–¥1,000 depending on the vendor.
Location
Venue: Ginza Dori, 1-chōme-3 Honchō, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0034, Japan
How to Get There:
- By Bus: Take a bus bound for Yunohama Onsen from Tsuruoka Station. Get off at the Shiyakusho-mae stop, then walk about 5 minutes to Ginza Street where the festival takes place.
- By Car: The venue is easily accessible from central Tsuruoka, with local parking available nearby.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Tsuruoka City at small hotels, ryokan, or guesthouses for easy access to the festival. Options range from cozy traditional inns to modern business hotels, offering convenient locations near the festival area.
Average prices range from ¥7,000 to ¥15,000 per night, depending on accommodation type and booking time. Early reservations are recommended for festival weekend visitors.
FAQs
What is the Japan Sea Cold Cod Festival?
It’s a winter festival in Tsuruoka celebrating dongara jiru, a traditional cold cod soup from Yamagata Prefecture.
When will the festival be held in 2026?
The festival is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free. Visitors only pay for soup samples or other local foods.
What makes dongara jiru special?
Dongara jiru uses every part of the cod, including the liver and milt, creating a rich, flavorful soup that follows a zero-waste philosophy.
How do I get to the festival from Tsuruoka Station?
Take a bus bound for Yunohama Onsen, get off at Shiyakusho-mae, and walk about 5 minutes to Ginza Dori, the festival location.
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