Cliffs, Samurai Legacy & Zen Temples
From Tide-Powered Whirlpools to Festival Rhythms — Discover Tokushima
Why Take This Tsuruga Shore Excursion?
Tsuruga, a port city in Fukui Prefecture on the Sea of Japan, is your gateway to dramatic coastlines, samurai heritage, and living Zen traditions. This shore excursion highlights three of the region’s most captivating sites:
- Echizen-Kaga Coast & Tōjinbō Cliffs (越前加賀海岸国定公園・東尋坊) — Marvel at towering volcanic cliffs carved by the rough waves of the Sea of Japan. Legends say a monk named Tōjinbō was thrown from these cliffs, and today they are one of Japan’s most striking coastal landscapes.
- Ichijōdani Asakura Clan Ruins & Museum (戦国一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡博物館) — Step into samurai-era history at the reconstructed townscape of the Asakura Clan, who ruled during the Sengoku period. Explore archaeological remains, gardens, and restored residences that reveal the everyday life of a castle town.
- Eiheiji Temple (大本山永平寺) — Founded in 1244 by Zen master Dōgen, this sprawling temple complex remains an active training monastery for monks. Stroll cedar-lined paths, wooden corridors, and meditation halls while experiencing the deep serenity of Zen practice.
This journey offers a balance of natural wonder, historical immersion, and spiritual reflection, making Tsuruga a rewarding day trip from port.
Sample Itinerary: Tsuruga Shore Excursion
From pearls to sacred shrines, experience the essence of Toba in a single day.
09:00 – Pickup at Tsuruga Port
Meet your private driver/guide at the cruise terminal. Get an introduction to Fukui Prefecture, famed for its coastal beauty and powerful samurai heritage.
09:30 – 10:45 – Tōjinbō Cliffs (東尋坊)
Drive to the Echizen-Kaga Quasi-National Park and stand before the sheer basalt cliffs of Tōjinbō, rising dramatically from the Sea of Japan. Waves crash against the rocks below, creating a thrilling spectacle. Walk the cliffside trails for panoramic sea views, or take an optional sightseeing boat ride (weather permitting) to view the cliffs from the water.
11:30 – 13:00 – Ichijōdani Asakura Clan Ruins & Museum (戦国一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡博物館)
Travel inland to the Ichijōdani valley, once the flourishing castle town of the Asakura Clan in the 15th–16th centuries. Explore the reconstructed samurai residences, townhouses, gardens, and temples that showcase life in Japan’s Warring States era. Visit the museum to see excavated artifacts, armor, and cultural treasures. Enjoy a simple lunch nearby featuring local Fukui cuisine, such as soba noodles or grilled river fish.
13:45 – 15:30 – Eiheiji Temple (大本山永平寺)
Arrive at one of Japan’s most important Zen monasteries, founded by Zen master Dōgen. Walk through cedar groves and across wooden corridors connecting over 70 temple buildings. Observe monks engaged in their daily training routines of meditation, study, and communal living. The atmosphere of tranquility makes Eiheiji a deeply moving cultural and spiritual experience.
15:45 – 17:00 – Return to Tsuruga Port
Relax on the drive back with optional time for a short local snack or souvenir stop before boarding your ship.
