Tsuruta

Tsuruta (鶴田) is a town in Tsugaru region of Aomori prefecture. Literally translated, the town's name means "Cranefield".

Understand

The local tourist association has a multilingual guide site.

Fujimiko is the name of a lake, park, and onsen (hot spring) in Tsuruta.

Tsuru-no-mai Bridge (鶴の舞橋). This "dance of cranes" bridge is a feature of the park, which locals are fond of pointing out as Japan's longest all-wooden bridge. The bridge is not particularly old, but its natural structure and the lake and Mount Iwaki in the background make it a good spot for photos. It was built using locally produced timber and traditional building techniques.
Crane Nature Park (丹頂鶴自然公園). Wild cranes were said to have existed here during the Edo Period, but decreased until Japan had no more of its signature bird over time. The cranes raised here were donated from China and Russia. In spring it is possible to see young hachlings.
Tsurunosato Furusatokan (former Kawamura residence) (鶴の里ふるさと館（旧川村家）). Near the lake is a very old traditional Japanese-style house, which has been well-preserved and worth a look. There is also a large play area nearby with an enormous, dangerous-looking slide, and a large globe with many flags around it in tribute to Tsuruta's efforts towards internationalization.

Onsen. A man-made onsen is connected with the park. If you go, be sure not to forget to use a pair of indoor slippers, which can be found to the left of the main entrance. Hand soap is provided, but a full onsen kit is recommended. Overall, there is nothing really special about this onsen, but it's a nice enough place.

Tsugaru Dialect Competition. Every year in June or July a competition is held at the town hall in which foreigners create skits in the local dialect. NHK (a national news network) has covered the competition.

Arujya (道の駅つるた鶴の里あるじゃ). You would be missing out if you did not stop by at Arujya, the roadside station (michi no eki) for Tsuruta, which is not only fascinating because the restroom building is designed (like most things in the town) in the shape of cranes, but is also where you can taste some wonderful Steuben grape whipped ice-cream. It is delicious! Also to be found are lots of fresh vegetables and great food produce which make great souvenirs to take home.

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