Tsuruga Municipal Museum

The Tsuruga Municipal Museum is located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, a historic port city on the Sea of Japan. The museum documents Tsuruga's role as a major gateway connecting Japan with continental Asia through trade, cultural exchange, and humanitarian events. Tsuruga functioned as one of Japan's most important ports from ancient times through the modern era.

The museum focuses on Tsuruga's role as a "Port of Humanity" during the 20th century. Major exhibitions cover the rescue of Polish orphans in the 1920s and Jewish refugees escaping Nazi persecution via the Trans-Siberian Railway in 1940-1941, many holding visas issued by diplomat Chiune Sugihara. Additional exhibits document the Kitamaebune shipping network during the Edo period, connections to Korea and Manchuria, and post-World War II repatriation of Japanese civilians and soldiers.

Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions displaying historical photographs and documents related to the refugee arrivals, including stories of Polish orphans rescued in 1920-1922 and Jewish refugees who transited through Tsuruga in 1940-1941 with Sugihara visas. Interactive displays and video presentations provide context about the geopolitical circumstances and individual experiences.

Exhibits on Tsuruga's maritime history showcase the port's commercial development, fishing traditions, and connections to continental Asia. The museum includes displays on local cultural heritage and traditional industries. Educational programs and temporary exhibitions supplement the permanent collection.

Access the museum from Tsuruga Station on the JR Hokuriku Main Line, approximately 10 minutes by bus or 15 minutes on foot. From Kyoto (1 hour 15 minutes), Osaka (1 hour 45 minutes), or Kanazawa (1 hour 30 minutes) via limited express trains. By car, exit Hokuriku Expressway at Tsuruga Interchange (10 minutes). Free parking available. Admission: 300 yen for adults, 150 yen for students, free for elementary students and younger.