Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum

The “Port of Humanity” Tsuruga Museum is a museum in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture that summarizes the history of Tsuruga Port. In particular, it focuses on the stories of Polish orphans and Jewish refugees who arrived in Tsuruga during World War II—connected to the “Visas for Life” issued by diplomat Chiune Sugihara to save Jewish lives. The museum introduces the refugees’ interactions with Tsuruga citizens and includes interviews with the refugees, conveying the history of Tsuruga Port as a place tied to life-saving humanitarian efforts. In addition to exhibits, there are also a theater and an exchange corner, making it a substantial, engaging visit. The total of 763 Polish orphans and Jewish refugees who came through Tsuruga, and the warm support they received from local people, communicates the citizens’ kindness and deep wish for peace. You can truly understand why Tsuruga Port is known as a “port of humanity.” To get there, take a community bus from JR Tsuruga Station and get off at Kanegasaki Ryokuchi—it’s right nearby.