Nesting on the west coast by the Sea of Japan, Tsuruga is one of the three oldest port open for international trade since 1899. As one of the major connection to Europe through Trans-Siberian Railway, Tsuruga city flourished since 1900s. In 1994, Sakana Machi has become the largest coastal fish market by the Sea of Japan, bringing in fresh seafood from Tsuruga Port every day. The fish market has 70 shops and restaurants selling a variety of fresh seafood, processed and packaged seafood and food stuff, as well as souvenirs.