Tsuruga Private Customizable Full Day Tour

Fukui Prefecture , Japan

Tsuruga Private Customizable Full Day Tour

Active

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Unleash your inner explorer on Tsuruga with a personalized journey, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and serene hidden spots. Our custom tours provide a bespoke experience, tailored to your desires, ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and culture enthusiasts alike. Discover local secrets, savor authentic moments, and create unforgettable memories on Tsuruga. Enjoy immersive cultural experiences, gain insider knowledge, and have memorable encounters with local traditions, ensuring a truly unique and enriching adventure.

Available options

Private: 1 Driver + 1 Guide

Private Car: This tour includes private chartered vehicle (1 driver) with a tour expert (1 tour guide). All transportation costs included.

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Choose 4 to 5 sites for a personalized tour of Tsuruga

English-speaking professional tour guide

8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf

Transportation within the city only

Detailed itinerary

Upon confirmation of your booking, you will be provided with a dedicated Tour Form containing key city highlights and essential information for your tour. Through this form, you can specify any attractions you wish to visit and share additional preferences. We will carefully review your input to craft an itinerary uniquely suited to your interests

Located in Tsuruga, is known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance. It is dedicated to the gods of agriculture and fertility, attracting visitors seeking blessings for bountiful harvests.

Highlights Tsuruga's rich maritime history and its role as a gateway for immigrants. The museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and stories related to the port's cultural significance.

A historic structure that has been repurposed into a cultural and commercial space. It features shops, cafes, and event spaces, reflecting the city's architectural heritage.

A historic shrine in Tsuruga, dedicated to the gods of good fortune and protection. The shrine is notable for its tranquil environment and beautiful surroundings, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

A prominent Shinto shrine in Tsuruga, dedicated to the deity of maritime safety and prosperity. Surrounded by beautiful nature, it features traditional architecture and hosts various festivals throughout the year.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Meals, food and drinks not specified

Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 21 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 30 days or less before event

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Tsuruga Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Tsuruga Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences

If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable

Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today

Mode of transportation: Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)

Custom Itinerary:

Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time, and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and responses from the Custom Tour form, we’ll begin creating your itinerary and organizing the necessary arrangements for your tour

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour takes time, especially if restaurant or venue reservations are needed. We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally 3 months in advance, or at least 1 month before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of travel, we may not be able to arrange the tour in time, and your booking request may be canceled with a full refund

What if I'm late?

We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time

Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need help

Although this is a private tour, the tour guide will only wait for you for up to 30 minutes of start time before the tour is cancelled

Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions

Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour

Meeting point

If guests are already in Tsuruga City, the tour guide will pick up the guest at their hotel (if it's within the city center). If not, pick-up location will be provided to the guest before the tour date (the pick-up location will likely be at a convenient location, such as a train station).

About Fukui Prefecture

Fukui Prefecture is a hidden gem in the Chubu region of Japan, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique cultural heritage. It's home to some of the country's most significant dinosaur fossils, beautiful coastlines, and traditional crafts like Echizen lacquerware and Sabaika pottery.

Top Attractions

Fukui Castle Ruins

The ruins of Fukui Castle offer a glimpse into the region's feudal history. The castle was built in the 17th century and played a significant role in the area's development.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (museum may have a small fee)

Dinosaur Museum (Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum)

This world-class museum showcases Fukui's rich dinosaur fossils, including the Fukuiraptor and Fukuisaurus. It's a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts and families.

Museum 2-3 hours ¥800-¥1,200

Eihei-ji Temple

One of the two main temples of the Soto School of Zen Buddhism, Eihei-ji is a serene and spiritual place. The temple complex is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers a peaceful retreat.

Religious 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Maruoka Castle

Maruoka Castle is one of Japan's few remaining original castles. It's known for its unique architecture and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥400

Tojinbo Cliffs

Tojinbo Cliffs are a stunning geological formation along the Sea of Japan. The basalt columns and rugged coastline offer breathtaking views and are a popular spot for photography and hiking.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Echizen Crab

Fukui is famous for its Echizen crabs, particularly the snow crab and horsehair crab. They are typically served steamed or in hot pot dishes.

Main course Contains shellfish

Fukui Ramen

A local ramen variety with a rich, soy-based broth and thin noodles. It's often topped with pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.

Main course Vegetarian options available

Echizen Soba

Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth. A popular dish in the Echizen region.

Main course Gluten-free options available

Fukui Pickles

A variety of pickled vegetables, including radish, eggplant, and cucumber. They are a staple in Fukui's cuisine and often served as a side dish.

Side dish Vegan-friendly

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Skiing and snowboarding in winter Exploring the Tojinbo Cliffs Onsen (hot spring) visits Picnicking in parks Strolling through traditional gardens Visiting temples and shrines Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukui is a very safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is relatively uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and ticket sellers
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Komatsu Airport • 25 km from central Fukui

By train

Fukui Station

By bus

Fukui Station Bus Terminal, Echizen Railway Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Fukui.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Fukui Echizen Katsuyama Sakai

Day trips

Kanazawa

60 km from central Fukui • Full day

Kanazawa is a vibrant city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and traditional crafts. It's a great day trip from Fukui for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

100 km from central Fukui • Full day or overnight

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These picturesque villages offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life and are a popular day trip from Fukui.

Kurobe Gorge

80 km from central Fukui • Full day

Kurobe Gorge is a stunning natural attraction known for its breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and the Kurobe Gorge Railway. It's a great day trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Festivals

Echizen Kaga Kaikan Matsuri • April Fukui Lantern Festival • August Echizen Washi (Paper) Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum for a unique and educational experience, especially if traveling with children
Try Echizen crab, a local delicacy, at one of the many specialty restaurants in the region
Explore the traditional crafts of Echizen, such as lacquerware and pottery, by visiting workshops and demonstrations
Experience a traditional tea ceremony or Zen meditation session at a local temple for a spiritual and cultural experience
Visit the Tojinbo Cliffs for stunning coastal views and photography opportunities, but be cautious near the edges