Smart Ways to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy a Safe, Comfortable Trip to Otaru.
- Written by: LIVE JAPAN Editor
Otaru in Hokkaido is a highly popular tourist destination among both foreigners and Japanese.
Therefore, depending on the season, it can be extremely crowded, making it difficult to board your preferred mode of transportation or even increasing the risk of accidents.
*This article includes advertising content.
Smart Ways to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy a Safe, Comfortable Trip to Otaru.
During Japan's peak holiday seasons—April 29 to May 5, August 10 to August 15, and December 25 to January 5—accommodations are often fully booked, and traffic congestion is widespread. Similarly, during Chinese New Year (late January to early February), a major holiday for Chinese travelers, large crowds are also expected.
To help you steer clear of the crowds and enjoy a smoother trip during these busy periods, we've put together helpful travel tips and information.

- Area
- Category
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Popular Tours & Activitiess
-
Great Local Eats: 5 Expert-Recommended Local Chain Restaurants in Hakodate
by: Nobuka Kawashima
-
Ad
Sapporo SATUDORA Shopping Guide: Get Souvenirs, Medicine & More at This Iconic Drugstore (Special Deal Inside!)
-
Beyond Hakodate and Matsumae: Enjoy the Hidden Gems of Hokkaido’s Donan Area
-
Ad
Smart Ways to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy a Safe, Comfortable Trip to Noboribetsu Onsen
-
Scenic Road Trip from Hakodate to Matsumae: Stunning Views, Traditions, and Tasty Delights
by: Nobuka Kawashima
-
7 Iconic Hokkaido locations that will make your Instagram shine
by: Himanshi Shah
-
Sightseeing in Sapporo: Guide to New Shops and Attractions for 2023
by: Nobuka Kawashima
-
What to Pack for Japan: 8 Essential Things for a Hassle-Free Trip
-
Autumn in Japan 2025: Fall Foliage Forecast & Where to Enjoy the Colorful Leaves (+Tour Info)
-
Train or Bus: Top Advice and Planning Tips To Make Your Hokkaido Trip Memorable!
-
Get to Know Otaru, Japan's Fairytale City!
by: Steve Csorgo
-
Guide to Traveling Hokkaido by Train: Prices and Distance for All Main Train Stations
- #best sushi hokkaido
- #things to do hokkaido
- #best ramen sapporo
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #what to do in odaiba
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best sweets otaru
- #japanese fashion culture
- #best nature furano
- #japanese convenience store snacks
- #best japanese soft drinks












