Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum

The Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum commemorates Tsuruga's pivotal role as a gateway for refugees and displaced people during the 20th century. Located in Fukui Prefecture on Japan's Sea of Japan coast, the museum opened in 2020 to honor the city's humanitarian legacy, particularly its reception of Jewish refugees fleeing Europe via the Trans-Siberian Railway during World War II and Japanese repatriates returning from overseas after the war.

Tsuruga served as the landing point for thousands of people seeking safety or returning home, earning its designation as a "Port of Humanity." The museum's exhibits detail the stories of Polish orphans rescued in 1920 and 1922, Jewish refugees who arrived with visas issued by diplomat Chiune Sugihara, and the massive repatriation efforts that brought nearly 660,000 Japanese nationals back to their homeland between 1945 and 1958.

The museum features interactive displays, historical documents, and personal testimonies that illustrate these humanitarian episodes. Visitors can explore recreated scenes of the port during different historical periods, view artifacts from refugees and repatriates, and learn about the local residents who provided assistance. The facility includes a theater screening documentary films and a observation deck overlooking Tsuruga Bay.

The museum operates year-round with consistent programming, though special exhibitions may coincide with historical anniversaries. The surrounding port area offers pleasant walks in any season, with spring cherry blossoms and autumn colors enhancing the waterfront setting.

Located approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Tsuruga Station, the museum is accessible by local bus or taxi. Tsuruga Station connects to major cities via the Obama Line and Hokuriku Main Line. General admission costs ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for students, with the museum open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily except Mondays and New Year holidays.