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15 Travel Expert-Recommended Souvenirs to Buy in Otaru

15 Travel Expert-Recommended Souvenirs to Buy in Otaru

Date published: 9 February 2024

Otaru, Hokkaido, is a tourist destination known for its quaint streets and iconic attractions such as the Otaru Canal, as well as products like LeTAO's Double Fromage and Kitaichi Glass’s glassware. There’s also a variety of souvenirs, including sweets, seafood, sundries, and artwork, making shopping just another exciting part of an Otaru trip!

In this article, Nobuka, an experienced traveler with over 15 years of exploring Hokkaido and over 1,000 travel articles, has carefully selected 15 Otaru souvenirs you won’t want to miss out on!

Table of Contents
  1. Exploring Otaru's Souvenir Shops: A Fun Town to Shop Around!
  2. 6 Souvenirs to Buy in Otaru
  3. 9 Recommended Souvenirs from Popular Otaru Specialty Stores

Exploring Otaru's Souvenir Shops: A Fun Town to Shop Around!

The Otaru Canal is the most famous sightseeing spot in Otaru, and one you won't want to overlook!
The Otaru Canal is the most famous sightseeing spot in Otaru, and one you won't want to overlook!

Souvenir shops are conveniently scattered all across the city of Otaru, inviting visitors to explore its streets while browsing for treasures.

Souvenir stores offer the advantage of comparing products from various companies, and being able to purchase your favorite all under one roof. However, specialty shops like confectioneries and craft stores tend to offer unique, exclusive items not often found in souvenir shops. Both shopping experiences have their own allure!

Nobuka visits a number of Otaru shops to check them out in person (photo: LeTAO Honten)
Nobuka visits a number of Otaru shops to check them out in person (photo: LeTAO Honten)

With her expertise as a professional traveler with a wealth of experience in Hokkaido, Nobuka will guide you through the treasure trove of souvenirs found through wandering Otaru’s streets, from beloved classic confections to elusive items available in limited quantities.

First, let’s look at six carefully selected souvenir shop goods, followed by nine handpicked recommendations from various other stores across Otaru.

6 Souvenirs to Buy in Otaru

The Otaru Canal as seen from the Chuo Bridge
The Otaru Canal as seen from the Chuo Bridge

Today’s featured souvenir shop is Unga Plaza (officially known as Otaru Sightseeing Products Plaza), managed by the Otaru Tourist Association. It’s conveniently located near the Chuo Bridge overlooking the Otaru Canal. Not only does it offer an array of Otaru souvenirs, but it also serves as a sightseeing information hub for tourists.

While Canal Plaza closed its doors on March 31, 2024, a new shop, Port Marche Otarue, opened nearby on March 25, 2024, in the new Otaru International Information Center. It also offers an array of items, including those highlighted in this article. (Product availability and specifications are subject to change or discontinuation without notice.)

Port Marche Otarue is conveniently located within a 15-minute walk from Otaru Station.

Exterior view of Otaru International Information Center
Exterior view of Otaru International Information Center
Products from all kinds of companies can be found here, allowing you to compare them and pick your favorites.
Products from all kinds of companies can be found here, allowing you to compare them and pick your favorites.

We will now introduce a comprehensive selection of products, ranging from Otaru's signature confectioneries to items from local food manufacturers. These selections include items tailored to international visitors as recommended by store staff.

Marron Coron by Amato: A Popular Otaru Pastry for Over Half a Century

Marron Coron (Almond): 250 yen each
Marron Coron (Almond): 250 yen each

Marron Coron is a beloved confection crafted by Otaru's Amato confectionery since 1960. It holds an iconic status amongst the locals as a signature souvenir sweet of Otaru.

Comprised of three crispy round sablé biscuits, and enveloped in a chocolate coating.
Comprised of three crispy round sablé biscuits, and enveloped in a chocolate coating.

Available in four standard flavors: almond, cheese, cacao, and walnut. Each Marron Coron is crafted using only the finest ingredients for the perfect balance of crunchiness and sophistication. Flavors from other series include lemon, black tea, and matcha, featuring two layers of biscuit.

You can buy this treat at Canal Plaza (or Port Marche Otarue after April 2024), at souvenir shops around Otaru and Sapporo, and at the main Amato branch located along Miyako-dori shopping street near Otaru Station.

Canal Plaza offers the four standard Marron Coron flavors, as well as black tea and lemon (available options may vary daily).
Canal Plaza offers the four standard Marron Coron flavors, as well as black tea and lemon (available options may vary daily).
Nobuka's Notes:
  • A subtle and refined flavor profile.
  • An Otaru souvenir of legendary status.
  • Sold individually, making it easy to sample and compare different flavors.

Otaru Nama Ramen: Deliciously Thick Noodles

1 bag (432 yen) contains 2 servings of soup and noodles
1 bag (432 yen) contains 2 servings of soup and noodles

Crafted by Abe Seimen, a long-established Otaru noodle manufacturer, this series of fresh ramen noodles makes for an ideal souvenir. With a shelf life of 30 days post-production and convenient room temperature storage (away from high heat and humidity), these noodles come in four flavors: the sesame oil-flavored Shio (salt), the rich Miso flavor, Gara (chicken bone), featuring a robust chicken and pork bone base, and Shoyu (soy sauce), with the savory essence of soy sauce, vegetable, and meat.

Abe Seimen is a professional noodle manufacturer that wholesales noodles to countless ramen stores and other noodle shops throughout Otaru. The noodles are made with Otaru’s famously pure and delicious water, along with Hokkaido wheat and other select ingredients—the result: noodles boasting a delightful elasticity and firmness.

Nobuka's Notes:
  • Easily recreate professional ramen in the comfort of your home.
  • Hard to find anywhere outside of Otaru.
  • Fresh ramen noodles with a firm, chewy texture.

Hokkaido Autumn Salmon Soup: Delicious Flavor from All-Natural Ingredients

1 bag (600 yen), 200g
1 bag (600 yen), 200g

This soup contains autumn salmon and root vegetables from Hokkaido, inspired by the traditional Ainu one-pot dish called "Ohau." It contains no chemical seasonings, additives, or artificial coloring, allowing the natural flavors and umami of the ingredients to shine through. Simply remove the inner bag from the outer packaging and microwave it as-is! With its room-temperature storage and ease of consumption, it also makes for the perfect souvenir.

Scallops and cod also available from the same series.
Scallops and cod also available from the same series.
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Offers a taste of traditional Ainu cuisine.
  • Easy to eat - just heat in the microwave!
  • Allows you to savor the authentic flavors of the natural ingredients themselves.

Cheese Scallops: A Delectable Delicacy for Your Next Happy Hour

Sold individually for 44 yen each, or 1,100 yen per box (25 pieces)
Sold individually for 44 yen each, or 1,100 yen per box (25 pieces)

In recent years, rare delicacies have gained popularity among foreign tourists, such as foods and special seafood products like scallops, sea urchins, and more, all specially designed for easy preservation. They come in various types, including processed baby scallops with cheese, and smoked.

One convenient favorite is the Cheese Scallops, offering bite-sized portions for easy eating. It’s made by kneading Hokkaido scallops with minced codfish and mixing natural cheese with kamaboko fish paste. The cheese gradually absorbs the essence of the scallops, creating a delicious fusion of flavors.

A variety of delicacies available!
A variety of delicacies available!
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Perfect accompaniment to beer and white wine.
  • Individually wrapped for convenience to eat wherever, whenever.
  • Offers a taste of Hokkaido's seafood and dairy.

Otaru Beer: The Local Brew of Otaru

From left to right: Pilsner, Dunkel, Weiss, and Slow Brew (323 yen each)
From left to right: Pilsner, Dunkel, Weiss, and Slow Brew (323 yen each)

Otaru Beer is a local brew crafted only with water, malt, hops, and yeast. It comes in three standard varieties: Pilsner, boasting a fresh, golden hue; Dunkel, creamy and full-bodied with a rich brown color; and Weiss, known for its fruity notes of banana-like flavor. Slow Brew has also garnered acclaim for its use of organic barley and hops, and its low-temperature aging process.

These beers are brewed using a traditional method dating back over 200 years to Germany, renowned for its beer culture. Each brand boasts a robust flavor that perfectly complements meat dishes. The choice of brand ultimately depends on your personal preference.

Nobuka's Notes:
  • Enjoy the pure essence of malt and hops in every sip.
  • Each brand has its own flavor profile, making them fun to drink and compare.
  • It’s a unique taste that can only be found in Otaru!

Otaru Canal Silhouette Candle Holder: Illuminating Winter and Summer Scenes of the Canal

Light the candle and watch the beautiful Otaru scenery come to life!
Light the candle and watch the beautiful Otaru scenery come to life!

This candle holder, crafted by Otaru Candle Craft, features original designs depicting winter and summer scenes of the Otaru Canal. The silhouette glass reflects the image of the Otaru Canal, allowing it to dance and shimmer with the gentle flicker of candlelight.

In addition to the blue candleholder featuring the Otaru Canal design, there’s also a pink version decorated with illustrations of Hokkaido’s wildlife set against a starry sky. To enhance the ambiance of your space, place them in a corner, at the entrance, or even outdoors on your balcony or garden!

The Otaru Canal Silhouette Candle Holder (1,870 yen). Can be purchased together with the candles.
The Otaru Canal Silhouette Candle Holder (1,870 yen). Can be purchased together with the candles.
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Preserve the memories of your Otaru trip forever.
  • Add a touch of elegance to your interior decor.
  • Enhance the beauty of the patterns by using clear cup tea lights.
  • Canal Plaza (Permanently closed)
    小樽市観光物産プラザ (運河プラザ)
    • Address 2 Chome-1-20 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031
    • Phone Number 0134-33-1661
  • Port Marche Otarue
    ポートマルシェotarue(オタルエ)
    • Address 5-3 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007
    • Phone Number 0134-33-1661
    • ・Hours: 9 AM - 8 PM
      ・Closed: Open year round

9 Recommended Souvenirs from Popular Otaru Specialty Stores

We will now introduce some limited edition and original goods from Otaru confectioners, including limited products not available in general souvenir shops. You won’t want to overlook these!

LeTAO's Double Fromage: A Classic Otaru Confection

Double Fromage (2,160 yen) is a cheesecake consisting of two layers of rare cheese and baked cheese.
Double Fromage (2,160 yen) is a cheesecake consisting of two layers of rare cheese and baked cheese.

Some of the most popular sweets are those from LeTAO, a famous confectioner with several locations in Otaru, including its main branch. Located along the Sakaimachi-dori shopping street, known for drawing in droves of tourists, the LeTAO flagship store offers a full lineup of delectable sweets and multilingual staff to cater to the needs of international visitors. It’s just a short 20-minute walk from Otaru Station, 10 minutes from Asakusa Bridge on the Otaru Canal, and 7 minutes from Minami Otaru Station.

Located along the bustling Sakaimachi-dori shopping street, LeTAO's main branch faces the Marchen Intersection.
Located along the bustling Sakaimachi-dori shopping street, LeTAO's main branch faces the Marchen Intersection.
Visitors are even offered samples of some of the shop’s sweets!
Visitors are even offered samples of some of the shop’s sweets!
Double Fromage: A popular double-layered treat consisting of baked cheese and rare cheese.
Double Fromage: A popular double-layered treat consisting of baked cheese and rare cheese.

LeTAO’s signature product, the Double Fromage, is a rich, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake. Sold frozen, it’s recommended to enjoy this treat in the comfort of your hotel room on the same night you buy it. The Double Fromage is so delicious, you’ll surely see why it holds such fame the moment you taste it!

Nobuka's Notes:
  • A must-try for all LeTAO lovers!
  • A masterpiece cheesecake with a distinctive milky, creamy texture.
  • With a diameter of nearly 12cm and a height of 4cm, there's plenty to share with friends!

Dolcina Quattro Fromage: A Cheese Lover's Delight, Exclusive to LeTAO’s Main Branch

Crunchy cheese cookies crafted with four kinds of cheese and blended with clover honey
Crunchy cheese cookies crafted with four kinds of cheese and blended with clover honey

While LeTAO operates multiple stores, there are several products exclusively available at its main branch. One of these is the Dolcina Quattro Fromage, a cheese-filled cookie featuring a blend of four cheeses: Camembert, Cheddar, Gorgonzola, and Grana Padano. The salty essence of the cheeses is perfectly balanced with the subtle sweetness of the honey.

896 yen per box of 6 pieces
896 yen per box of 6 pieces
Nobuka's Notes:
  • A must-try for cheese enthusiasts with a rich, cheesy flavor.
  • Perfectly complements tea or wine, enhancing its taste.
  • Exclusive to the main LeTAO store alone.

Petit Chocolat Amando White: An Exclusive Flavor at LeTAO's Main Branch

Petit Chocolat Amando White is made with savory roasted almonds, enveloped in white chocolate, and dusted with powdered sugar.
Petit Chocolat Amando White is made with savory roasted almonds, enveloped in white chocolate, and dusted with powdered sugar.

Several products are sold exclusively at the main LeTAO store. Another highly recommended product is Petit Chocolat Amando White. While Petit Chocolat is available at all LeTAO stores in flavors like Cocoa and Strawberry, Amando White is a limited-edition variation only found in Otaru. This chocolate treat offers a delightful combination of melt-in-your-mouth chocolate plus crispy almonds, offering a unique flavor experience limited to visitors to the main store!

972 yen per can (70g each).
972 yen per can (70g each).
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Delivers a refined, perfectly balanced taste that’s not overly sweet.
  • Ideal for those seeking a light snack.
  • You can compare the different flavors within the Petit Chocolat series.

Kajuen no Rokugatsu Rare Fruit Cake: An Exclusive Confection at Kitakaro Otaru Honkan

Kajuen no Rokugatsu: 1,750 yen per box (one cake per box)
Kajuen no Rokugatsu: 1,750 yen per box (one cake per box)

Kitakaro is a popular Hokkaido confectionery brand famous for its Hokkaido Okaki rice crackers and Baumkuchen Yosei no Mori. While Kitakaro has locations in cities like Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, the Kajuen no Rokugetsu Fruit Cake is an exclusive delicacy only available at Kitakaro’s flagship Otaru branch. This tasty treat is a limited-edition item, only restocked on Fridays and often selling out very quickly. If you miss your chance to get it during your visit, you’ll have to wait for the following week’s shipment!

If you come across it during your shop visit, don’t wait - grab it right away!
If you come across it during your shop visit, don’t wait - grab it right away!
Cutting the fruitcake into pieces about 1-2 cm wide should give you at least 10 pieces total.
Cutting the fruitcake into pieces about 1-2 cm wide should give you at least 10 pieces total.

The fruitcake is satisfyingly filling and boasts a robust, moist texture. Topped with crisp, fresh apples, the cake batter is deliciously infused with mellow apple flavoring. While delicious at room temperature, chilling it in the fridge for 30-60 minutes allows you to indulge in a firmer texture and even more intense flavor.

The main building of Otaru Kitakaro is an old stone warehouse that has been renovated and repurposed, creating an atmospheric ambiance.
The main building of Otaru Kitakaro is an old stone warehouse that has been renovated and repurposed, creating an atmospheric ambiance.

Kitakaro Otaru Honkan is situated along the Sakaimachi-dori shopping street. We highly recommend enjoying your treats at the shop itself, as well as shopping for souvenirs and enjoying their exquisite cream puffs. It’s just a short 20-minute walk from Otaru Station, 10 minutes from Asakusa Bridge on the Otaru Canal, and 8 minutes from Minami Otaru Station.

Nobuka's Notes:
  • The apples are remarkably juicy!
  • It pairs wonderfully with tea or wine.
  • Recommended to cut into small pieces and store in the fridge for a delightful dessert after every meal!

Otaru Amazake Truffle Chocolates by Rokumi: A Collab Between a Long-Established Confectionery and a Sake Brewery

Otaru Amazake Truffle Chocolates. Both the red and white boxes contain 7 pieces each (10g per piece, 1,200 yen).
Otaru Amazake Truffle Chocolates. Both the red and white boxes contain 7 pieces each (10g per piece, 1,200 yen).

Otaru Amazake Truffle Chocolates are original chocolates produced and sold by Rokumi, a longstanding confectionery established in Otaru in 1931. These chocolate truffles are made by infusing sake lees (a byproduct of sake brewing) from Otaru’s Tanaka Sake Brewery, with the aroma of amazake, a traditional sweet sake.

This lineup includes two varieties: the red box is “Sweet,” featuring Couverture chocolate with a high concentration of cacao, while the white box is “White,” featuring chocolates with a rich milk flavor. Both versions are created by kneading sake lees into chocolate using a special process that doesn’t use cream, and finished with a delicate dusting of sake lees powder.

You amazake aroma is apparent from the moment you bring it to your mouth.
You amazake aroma is apparent from the moment you bring it to your mouth.

These chocolates boast a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth texture and wonderful sake aroma. Of the two varieties, the white chocolate has a more pronounced sake lees flavor.

Otaru Amazake Truffle Chocolates are available at Rokumi stores and the Tarche souvenir shop inside Otaru Station.

Rokumi is about a 13-minute walk from Otaru Station, or 5 minutes by cab.
Rokumi is about a 13-minute walk from Otaru Station, or 5 minutes by cab.
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Chocolate for adults who also want to indulge in the flavor of sake.
  • Delicious both at room temperature and chilled.
  • Enjoy both Otaru's longstanding confectioner and sake brewery at the same time!
  • Rokumi
    六美
    • Address 1 Chome-2-12 Midori, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0034
    • Phone Number 0120-634-631
    • ・Hours: 9 AM - 6:30 PM
      ・Closed: Sundays

Suisho Amedama from Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo: A Century-Long Commitment to Irresistible Confections!

Suisho Amedama (Crystal Candy Balls), 500 yen per 120g  bag (approx. 18 pieces; price for Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo stores)
Suisho Amedama (Crystal Candy Balls), 500 yen per 120g bag (approx. 18 pieces; price for Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo stores)

Since its inception in 1911, Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo has consistently specialized in a single confectionery delight: the company’s own Suisho Amedama (or “Crystal Candy Ball”). Suisho Amedama is a simple treat, blending boiled sugar with natural lemon flavoring for a smooth texture and a sweet yet refreshing aftertaste.

So savor these flavors, loved by the locals for over a century, and try them yourself. They are available at Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo and the Tarche souvenir shop located in Otaru Station.

Located just a 10-minute stroll from Otaru Station, Sawanoro Honpo sits just past Sun Mall shopping street across the traffic light in a distinctive narrow building (pictured in foreground of photo).
Located just a 10-minute stroll from Otaru Station, Sawanoro Honpo sits just past Sun Mall shopping street across the traffic light in a distinctive narrow building (pictured in foreground of photo).
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Natural ingredients make them a great alternative to throat lozenges.
  • Easy to eat with a refreshing taste and no sticky residue.
  • A super popular Otaru souvenir!
  • Sawa-no-Tsuyu Honpo
    澤の露本舗
    • Address 1 Chome-4-25 Hanazono, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0024
    • Phone Number 0134-22-1428
    • ・Hours: 11 AM - 4 PM
      ・Closed: Mon/Weds (open national holidays), Year-end & New Year holidays

Otaru Kawarayaki Baumkuchen from Otaru Hyakka UNGA Plus: A New Kind of Baumkuchen

A rusk-like Baumkuchen
A rusk-like Baumkuchen

This is a Baumkuchen like never before with a unique, new texture. This handcrafted delicacy is made by cutting a traditionally baked baumkuchen, baking it in a kiln until it resembles a rusk, and finishing it off with a dusting of caramel powder on the surface.

Made in the likeness of a kawara roof tile (tiles made of molded clay and baked in a kiln), this confection features layers of Baumkuchen with a crispy, slightly firm texture. The stacked layers resemble stacked tiles of traditional roofs, making for a delicious homage to Otaru's history.

Otaru Kawarayaki Baum (5 pieces per box, 1,080 yen)
Otaru Kawarayaki Baum (5 pieces per box, 1,080 yen)

Otaru's history dates back over a century to when trading ships called Kitamaebune docked at its port. To prevent these vessels from capsizing and maintain their center of gravity, kawara tiles were loaded onto their bottoms and transported to Otaru. These same tiles were used to roof the town's stores and warehouses, many of which still stand today as tourist attractions.

The restaurant opened in 2019 in a wood-framed brick building dating back to 1893 with a classic tile roof.
The restaurant opened in 2019 in a wood-framed brick building dating back to 1893 with a classic tile roof.

This innovative Baumkuchen is a unique must-try treat that pays homage to Otaru’s history, crafted and sold by Otaru Hyakka Unga Plus, a creative establishment known for original products inspired by Otaru’s culture and history. It’s located just 10 minutes on foot from Otaru Station near the Chuo Bridge on the Otaru Canal, next to the Otaru City Museum Unga-kan.

Nobuka's Notes:
  • The Baumkuchen’s texture is fresh and crispy.
  • The caramel is the perfect balance of bitter and sweet.
  • You’ll learn a bit about the history of Otaru!
In addition to food products, the shop also sells lots of crafts!
In addition to food products, the shop also sells lots of crafts!

They offer a diverse array of specialties, including glassware, canvas products, ceramics, candles, and engraved items made in collaboration with local Otaru artists. You’re bound to discover something you’ll love!

A range of ceramics (pictured top in photo) draw inspiration from the Shakotan sea near Otaru. Their vibrant colors are especially popular amongst international visitors!
A range of ceramics (pictured top in photo) draw inspiration from the Shakotan sea near Otaru. Their vibrant colors are especially popular amongst international visitors!
  • Unga Plus
    小樽百貨UNGA↑(うんがぷらす)
    • Address 2 Chome-1-20 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031
    • Phone Number 0134-65-8150
    • ・Hours: 11 AM - 6 PM
      ・Closed: Year-end & New Year holidays

Tsukimi Series by Kitaichi Glass: A Longstanding Otaru Glassware Brand

Tsukimi Neko Kaleidoscope All-Purpose Glass from the Tsukimi Series (from 5,990 yen each)
Tsukimi Neko Kaleidoscope All-Purpose Glass from the Tsukimi Series (from 5,990 yen each)

Kitaichi Glass stands as Otaru's signature glass brand, dating back to 1901 when it began as a manufacturer and vendor of oil lamps and fishing floats. In the 1980s, the old building in the port warehouse district was converted into a tourist gallery, Kitaichi Glass Sangokan, sparking significant interest amongst the people. This store's establishment led to the development of numerous other tourist attractions in the neighborhood, shaping the vibrant Sakaimachi shopping street as we know it today—a hub that draws in countless visitors. As such, Kitaichi Glass stands as a pioneer in Otaru's tourism industry.

Kitaichi Glass Sangokan is a gallery shop converted from a fishing warehouse built in 1891.
Kitaichi Glass Sangokan is a gallery shop converted from a fishing warehouse built in 1891.

Kitaichi Glass has various locations throughout Otaru, but its most iconic one is Kitaichi Glass Sangokan. Located along Sakaimachi-dori shopping street, it's about a 20-minute walk from Otaru Station, and a 10-minute walk from Minami Otaru Station. The sales floor is divided into three sections: the Japanese floor, the Western floor, and the Country floor, where you'll find glasses, tableware, lampshades, and other products arranged according to each category. Each item is individually handcrafted, resulting in slightly different textures per piece. You may also pick up each one to examine, compare, and buy the one you like best.

The beams and staircases in this old building remain as they were in the old warehouse, surrounded by sparkling glassware!
The beams and staircases in this old building remain as they were in the old warehouse, surrounded by sparkling glassware!

One recommendation is the Tsukimi series on the Japanese floor. When you gaze into the moon pattern on the side of the glass, you can see the image of an adorable rabbit or cat appearing on the moon. The collection offers several variations, including beer mugs, tumblers, and swing glasses, each featuring seasonal colors and shapes. With such variety, you're bound to discover a favorite!

The Tsukimi Usagi Sake Cup Set includes Yurayura sake cups (the two on the left) and a cold sake bottle (right) for 13,900 yen.
The Tsukimi Usagi Sake Cup Set includes Yurayura sake cups (the two on the left) and a cold sake bottle (right) for 13,900 yen.
Put ice in the hollow of the cold sake bottle to keep the sake inside chilled.
Put ice in the hollow of the cold sake bottle to keep the sake inside chilled.
Nobuka's Notes:
  • Adorable, whimsical design.
  • Wide variety makes it easy to find the perfect shape and color to suit your taste.
  • Popular with international tourists for its Japanese aesthetic.

Orgel Doh Steam Clock: A Steam Clock Music Box at Otaru Music Box Museum

Orgel Doh Steam Clock (55mm x 65mm x 175mm, 5,940 yen each)
Orgel Doh Steam Clock (55mm x 65mm x 175mm, 5,940 yen each)

The Otaru Music Box Store is a favorite spot for tourists, drawing in crowds with its diverse collection of music boxes—it’s a challenge to pick just one! Among the array of options, one recommendation is the Steam Clock Music Box, displayed in front of the main building and inspired by the image of a steam clock.

The music box exudes a nostalgic atmosphere and retro charm with its handmade feel and unique, hand-painted color. One of the four clock plates actually functions as a real clock and can be removed to replace the batteries. It also offers a selection of tunes, including the melody of “Grandfather’s Old Clock.”

The Otaru Music Box Museum main building faces the Marchen Intersection at the southern end of Sakaimachi-dori shopping street.
The Otaru Music Box Museum main building faces the Marchen Intersection at the southern end of Sakaimachi-dori shopping street.

The main building of the Otaru Music Box Museum was originally the office building of a rice merchant constructed in 1915. Designated as a historical structure by Otaru City, it has been repurposed and now houses the museum.

It’s famous for its iconic shop-front steam clock, which emits steam and serenades passersby with a melody every 15 minutes.
It’s famous for its iconic shop-front steam clock, which emits steam and serenades passersby with a melody every 15 minutes.
Nobuka's Notes:
  • A special music box unique to Otaru.
  • Practical features with a moving clock.
  • Compact vertical size, suitable for room decoration.

The Otaru Music Box Museum main building is a short 20-minute walk from Otaru Station, or 7 minutes from Minami-Otaru Station. Boasting one of the most extensive music box collections in Japan, the spacious three-story establishment offers a captivating variety of these beautiful treasures. So if you find yourself visiting here, be sure to allow yourself enough time to explore the store and browse for your personal favorites.

The music box featuring a beckoning cat design is not only adorable but highly popular
The music box featuring a beckoning cat design is not only adorable but highly popular
The merry-go-round music box is popular for its fairy-tale style.
The merry-go-round music box is popular for its fairy-tale style.
You can also enjoy a hands-on music box making experience at the Otaru Orgel Doh Music Box & Handicrafts Studio You-kobo, located near the main building.
You can also enjoy a hands-on music box making experience at the Otaru Orgel Doh Music Box & Handicrafts Studio You-kobo, located near the main building.

The experience menu (reservations required, starting at 2,500 yen) entails a production time of 40-60 minutes, followed by about 30 minutes for drying the bond. In total, you can expect to spend 70-90 minutes crafting your piece before taking it home.

  • Otaru Orgel Doh Music Box & Handicrafts Studio You-kobo
    小樽オルゴール堂 手作体験 遊工房
    • Address 1-5, Irihune 1-chome, Otaru, Hokkaido, 047-0021
    • Phone Number 0134-21-3101
    • ・Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM (Last admission: 4:30 PM)
      ・Closed: None

Otaru offers an array of diverse delights, from delectable sweets to art, glassware, and culture. Here we have highlighted 15 recommendations, however the town has so much more to explore! As you wander through the streets of Otaru and peruse its shops, you're bound to discover lots of souvenirs that you’ll just want to take home!

Shopping in Otaru is an exciting experience, and you just might find yourself accumulating a collection of goods before you even know it! So if you're planning a trip to Otaru, be sure to leave your luggage at the hotel, and opt for a lighter one as you embark on a journey around the town.

Information in article as of February 2024. Please see official websites for the latest updates and information.

English translation by: Krys Suzuki

Written by:
Nobuka Kawashima
Nobuka Kawashima

A travel creator who has traveled all over Hokkaido in search of spectacular scenery and local gourmet food, Nobuka moved to Hokkaido from Tokyo in 2009. Since then, she has continued to photograph and write articles on Hokkaido travel and food for LIVE JAPAN and other tourism websites and travel magazines. She is a certified Hokkaido Tourism Master, a title given to Hokkaido tourism experts by the Hokkaido Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and also holds certifications as a Domestic Travel Service Supervisor and Chief Itinerary Manager. As a transgender person herself, she runs a support group to create an environment that makes travel easier for LGBTQ people, and also gives lectures and talks at universities and companies.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
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