Tsuruga Cultural Heritage Tour: Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Step into the quieter side of Japan with this immersive 6 to 7-hour Tsuruga shore excursion. This gentle-paced tour introduces you to the cultural heritage and scenic wonders of Fukui Prefecture, bridging the gap between coastal spirituality and the dramatic history of the warring states period. You will journey through peaceful forest settings and rugged shorelines to discover the hidden gems of the Hokuriku region.

The tour highlights the architectural grandeur of one of Japan’s most important maritime shrines and the haunting beauty of a “Pompeii-like” samurai town. You will witness the scale of 16th-century feudal life at the Ichijodani ruins, where entire streets have been unearthed and reconstructed to tell the story of a fallen clan. It is a journey designed for those who seek authentic, local-led experiences away from the usual tourist crowds.

Guided by a licensed English-speaking professional, you will travel by private chartered vehicle to navigate the picturesque coastal roads of the Sea of Japan. With our Back-to-Ship Guarantee, you can immerse yourself in Zen meditation or traditional crafts, knowing your return to the Tsuruga pier is perfectly timed for your ship’s departure.

Highlights

• Kehi Shrine: Marvel at one of Japan’s three largest wooden torii gates, a massive vermilion structure that has protected seafarers for centuries.
• Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins: Explore a remarkably preserved 16th-century samurai town, featuring reconstructed residences, merchant houses, and historic gardens.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: Enjoy a breathtaking journey along the Sea of Japan, passing dramatic rocky coastlines and charming fishing villages perfect for photography.
• Cultural Personalization: Choose between a hands-on washi paper craft session or a guided Zen meditation in a serene local temple.
• Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse: Visit restored Meiji-era buildings that now house a massive diorama of old Tsuruga and local boutique shops.

Cruise Information

This 6 to 7-hour shore excursion is specifically synchronized with the docking schedules of major cruise lines at the Port of Tsuruga. We provide seamless logistics for passengers arriving on the Diamond Princess, MS Westerdam, Celebrity Millennium, and Queen Elizabeth.

Your private guide and driver will meet you directly at the Tsuruga Port terminal with a Jasumo welcome board immediately upon your ship’s arrival. Because the Ichijodani ruins are located about 50 minutes from the port, our private transportation ensures an efficient itinerary that maximizes your time at the historical sites. We guarantee your return to the pier at least one hour before the “all aboard” time, providing a stress-free transition back to your ship.

Full Itinerary

Your cultural discovery begins at Tsuruga Port, where you will meet your guide and head to Kehi Shrine. As one of the most revered Shinto sites in the region, you will learn about its maritime legacy and walk beneath the towering 11-meter-tall torii gate. The peaceful forest surrounding the shrine offers a quiet moment of reflection before you continue your journey toward the mountains.

Next, you will enjoy a Scenic Drive along the Sea of Japan. Your driver will navigate the coastal roads, making stops at scenic overlooks to capture the raw beauty of the Fukui coastline. You will then arrive at the Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins. This valley was once a thriving city of 10,000 people before it was burned to the ground in 1573. You can walk through the reconstructed samurai street, enter traditional homes to see how different social classes lived, and admire the oldest stone-filled gardens in Japan.

In the afternoon, you can personalize your experience with an Optional Activity. You may choose a relaxing washi paper session to create your own souvenir or join a Zen meditation session to experience the spiritual heart of Japan. If time permits, the final stop is the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse, where you can browse regional goods and handmade sweets. After a day filled with samurai history and coastal charm, your driver will escort you comfortably back to the port in time for your ship’s departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants will verify your ship’s docking schedule to ensure a seamless experience.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers and travel agencies.

Additionally, every booking includes a complimentary 10GB eSIM. This allows you to stay connected—share your photos of the samurai ruins instantly or check travel updates across Fukui without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or buying a local SIM card.

Faqs

What makes the Kehi Shrine torii gate special?

The torii gate at Kehi Shrine is one of the “Three Great Wooden Torii” in Japan, alongside those at Kasuga Taisha in Nara and Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima. It is a National Important Cultural Property and stands as a vibrant symbol of Tsuruga.

Why are the Ichijodani Ruins compared to Pompeii?

Like Pompeii, the town was suddenly destroyed (by fire during a siege) and remained buried for centuries. Archaeological excavations have revealed an incredibly clear layout of the 16th-century city, allowing for the precise reconstruction of the streets you see today.

Is the Zen meditation suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. The meditation sessions are guided by local monks who welcome practitioners of all levels. It is a gentle experience focused on mindfulness and posture, held in a quiet temple environment that embodies the serene spirit of Fukui.

What can I find at the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse?

The warehouse features a world-class 27-meter-long diorama that recreates Tsuruga as it looked during the early 20th century. It also houses restaurants and shops selling famous regional products like oboro kombu (shaved kelp) and local crafts.

Is there much walking involved in this tour?

The Ichijodani ruins cover a wide area, so moderate walking on flat but unpaved paths is required. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Most other sites, including the Red Brick Warehouse and Kehi Shrine, are easily accessible.

Location