This walking tour video takes you to Tsuruoka Station (鶴岡駅) in Yamagata Prefecture, showcasing the city’s unique urban character during the start of Japan’s rainy season in June 2025. Beginning his journey in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, and traveling via Akita, the videographer’s route lands in both Sakata and Tsuruoka—an area known for its rich history and local life in the Tohoku region.

Arriving at Tsuruoka Station, viewers are offered a glimpse into the nearby restaurant district, which comes alive at night with company gatherings and groups enjoying time out. The walk also dips into smaller side streets, revealing the presence of hostess bars and lively conversations, providing a real sense of the city’s after-dark energy. Beyond this, the footage moves towards an arcade shopping street situated a short distance from the station. Although generally quiet in the evening, one café in the area transforms into a welcoming bar at night, offering music and a friendly atmosphere for locals and travelers alike.

Tsuruoka (鶴岡市) is not only the largest city in Yamagata’s coastal Shonai region, but also a gateway for visitors exploring northern Honshu. The city’s station area represents a cross-section of local culture: bustling nightlife, cozy hideaways, and the laid-back rhythm typical of smaller Japanese cities. If you’re seeking an authentic glimpse into northeastern Japan’s everyday charm—especially under the atmospheric conditions of the early summer rains—this video offers just that.

With essential locations such as Tsuruoka Station featured, and nods to the city’s shopping arcades and nightlife, this tour gives practical insight for travelers considering stopovers in Yamagata Prefecture or planning Tohoku rail and bicycle journeys.