Bar-Hopping in Tsuruoka（Yamagata)

Tsuruoka, located in Yamagata’s Shonai region, is known as the “Gastronomic Capital of Japan” and is the only city in the country recognized by UNESCO for gastronomy. Surrounded by mountains, the sea, and fertile lands, the region is blessed with rich natural resources and a deep culinary heritage that produces outstanding ingredients.

On this special night tour, a local guide will take you through the Tsuruoka “Ginza” area – a lively street about 20 minutes from Tsuruoka Station, lined with nearly 50 izakayas, restaurants, and local shops. You will visit three different establishments, ranging from a local restaurant to hidden bars, while learning about Tsuruoka’s unique food culture, sake traditions, and local lifestyle.

More than just bar-hopping, this experience offers authentic encounters with restaurant owners and residents, giving you a deeper appreciation of the Shonai region’s gastronomic heritage. By the end of the evening, you will not only have enjoyed excellent food and sake, but also felt connected to the culture and people of Tsuruoka.

OUTLINE

MEETING PLACE

TOUR COURSE

19：00

Start your journey with sushi & tempura from the Sea of Japan.

Begin your evening in Tsuruoka with a delightful meal of sushi and tempura, crafted with fresh seasonal ingredients from the Shonai region. Blessed by the rich waters of the Sea of Japan, Tsuruoka boasts an incredible variety of seafood, which local chefs transform into exquisite dishes that reflect both tradition and creativity. As you savor each bite, you will also discover how food culture here is deeply connected to the rhythms of nature and the heritage of the community. This first dining experience sets the stage for immersing yourself in Tsuruoka’s reputation as the “Gastronomic Capital of Japan.”

19：55

Discover Yamagata through sake and food. Taste three varieties guided by a young sake sommelier and learn the art of pairing local cuisine with Japan’s finest brews.

Join a guided sake-tasting session led by a young sake sommelier, where you will taste three different varieties of sake. Yamagata is renowned for its abundance of high-quality sake, produced across the region thanks to pure water, rich soil, and a long brewing tradition. During this session, the sommelier will not only introduce you to the flavors and characteristics of each sake, but also share insights on how to enjoy sake together with Yamagata’s seasonal dishes. By learning the basics of sake–food pairing, you’ll discover how the harmony between local cuisine and sake elevates both flavors, giving you a deeper appreciation of Yamagata’s rich gastronomic culture.

20：45

Step into Japan’s unique “snack” bar culture.

Experience one of Japan’s most unique nightlife traditions – the “snack” bar. Unlike typical bars, these intimate establishments are run by friendly hosts or hostesses who create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for conversation, drinks, and laughter. Here, you’ll not only enjoy your favorite beverages but also the chance to sing karaoke, a beloved pastime that brings locals and visitors together.

Stepping into a snack bar is like entering a living room shared by the community: cozy, relaxed, and full of character. Through drinks, songs, and stories, you’ll gain a glimpse into a side of Japanese culture that is rarely experienced by tourists – a truly memorable way to connect with people and enjoy the night.