Nestled amongst the mountains of north-eastern Japan, where it is surrounded by nature and pristine seas, Tsuruoka City is a gem virtually untouched by foreign tourism, and blessed with a multitude of seasonal ingredients throughout the year.

Tsuruoka’s centuries-long history of living closely with nature has allowed it to develop
a unique and diverse food culture.

In 2014, it was recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.