As international travel to Japan continues to grow, famous destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are once again feeling the pressures of overtourism. For many travelers, packed streets and long lines have become an unavoidable (and unenjoyable) part of the experience. Yet beyond these crowded hubs lie regions that are not overwhelmed at all, but instead are quietly waiting for visitors to return. One such destination is Tsuruoka, recently highlighted by Fodor's as a place actively seeking more international tourism.
Located on the northwest coast of Honshu in Yamagata Prefecture, Tsuruoka offers a very different side of Japan. Around 200 years ago, it was considered as culturally significant as Kyoto, known for its deep ties to temples and nature. While it remains accessible by rail from Tokyo, the city never developed mass tourism, allowing its landscapes, traditions, and daily life to remain refreshingly unhurried.
For travelers seeking outdoor adventure and spiritual heritage, Tsuruoka is the gateway to Dewa Sanzan, a revered group of three sacred mountains long associated with pilgrimage and mountain worship. Multi-day treks lead through cedar forests, misty mountain paths, and remote shrines, offering an experience far removed from the crowds of more famous nature sites. Along the way, visitors may encounter hot springs, quiet mountain villages, and wildlife unique to northern Japan.
Tsuruoka is also a highlight for food-focused travelers. Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the area is celebrated for its deep connection between cuisine, nature, and local culture. One standout experience is shojin ryori, the traditional Buddhist plant-based cuisine served along the Dewa Sanzan route. Completely vegan and locally sourced, it offers travelers a rare chance to taste a living culinary tradition shaped by centuries of spiritual practice. The region is also a major sake producer, adding yet another layer to the food and drink scene.
By including Tsuruoka on its list, Fodor's is encouraging international visitors to look beyond Japan's busiest cities. For travelers, this means fewer crowds, deeper cultural encounters, and the chance to support local communities that genuinely welcome tourism.
