Otaru is a charming town steeped in maritime history. Its attractions vividly depict its history, from the romantic Otaru Canal to the vintage warehouse architecture. As you stroll through the streets, you will encounter artisans crafting glass, candles, music boxes, and more. Otaru is also the birthplace of LeTAO and other highly popular dessert destinations.

Seafood is everywhere in Otaru, from market bowls of uni and salmon roe to sushi counters that make the most of the daily catch. Local favorites such as stir-fried noodles and crispy half-chicken tempura round out the town’s food culture.

Getting to Otaru from Sapporo is simple. A quick 30 to 40-minute ride on the JR rapid train or a slightly longer bus journey of around 45 to 60 minutes will bring you to this enchanting town. Upon arrival at JR Otaru Station, famous spots like Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street are within easy walking distance. With convenient self-guided transportation options, planning a day trip or even a two-day adventure is totally feasible!

A visit to Otaru is incomplete without experiencing the charming Otaru Canal. The canal is just a 12 to 15-minute walk from JR Otaru Station. It is accented with cobblestone pathways, vintage gas street lamps, brick warehouses, and gently flowing waterways.

The overall ambiance of the canal is nostalgic and exotic, making it the most captivating feature of Otaru. The streets along the canal also have numerous cafes and attractions, and it's a beautiful destination all year round, day or night!

Otaru proudly holds the title as the birthplace of Hokkaido’s railways, with the first line opening here in 1882. About twenty minutes on foot from the canal, the Otaru City Museum Main Building showcases that history through a collection of locomotives and railway artifacts.

The grounds display steam engines imported during Hokkaido’s early development, as well as trains that once ran under the national railway. Other educational exhibits follow how railways shaped both the city and the wider region.

It is a natural stop for railfans, but the museum is also a great stop for families, with plenty of hands-on displays and space to wander around the engines outdoors.

Otaru Museum of History and Nature (Canal Museum)

Roughly a twenty-minute walk from the Main Building, the Canal Museum sits just off the canal inside a legendary red-brick warehouse from 1893. It's home to more than 20,000 relics that cover the town’s growth and the natural environment of the region.

Admission is 300 yen for the Canal Museum or 400 yen for the Main Building (reduced to 300 yen in winter). A combined ticket is the better deal if you plan to see more than one site: 500 yen for any two or 600 yen for all three, which include the Canal Museum, the Main Building, and the Old Nippon Yusen Otaru Branch. Children enter free, with discounts for students and seniors.

In the center of Otaru’s urban landscape sits a cultural complex known as the Otaru Art Base. It brings together a cluster of early 20th-century buildings that have been designated as cultural properties and repurposed as museums.

The Nitori Art Museum is housed in the former Hokkaido Development Bank Otaru Branch, while the Stained Glass Museum is located in the old Takahashi Warehouse. Additionally, the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch and the Western Art Museum, which features contemporary art, are also part of the Otaru Art Base.

What was once the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, as seen in the picture, is now home to the Nitori Museum of Art, and includes displays such as Japanese and foreign paintings, wood carvings, and more. In the basement, you will find the Art Nouveau Art Déco Glass Gallery.

The Former Takahashi Warehouse is a historic building that stands facing the Otaru Canal. It has been renovated and is now known as the Stained Glass Museum. The museum features stained glass pieces that were actually used in British churches from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century. The beauty and majesty of these pieces can make one lose track of time.

At the Old Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch exhibit, you can see the state of the bank as it was back in the day. The exhibit includes an old vaulted safe deposit box and a conference room. Additionally, there is a projection mapping of Hokkaido's four seasons on the ceiling of the plaster-decorated atrium, which is a delightful sight to behold.

To make the most of the Art Base, pick up the cost-saving “Five-in-One Museum Pass.” For 3,500 yen, it covers all four museums and entry to the special exhibition “Otaru Ukiyo-e Museum.” It’s the simplest way to take in Otaru’s artistic and architectural heritage.

Located about a 17-minute bus ride from Otaru Station and standing at an elevation of 532.4 meters, Tengu-yama features a cable car for a quick ascent and an observation deck with breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can take in the entirety of Otaru city and its coastal scenery, extending to the distant Shakotan Peninsula. During the day, you can enjoy the vast expanse of the deep blue ocean, while at night, the sparkling night view, looking like scattered jewels, earns Tengu-yama a spot among the "Top Three Night Views in Hokkaido." In the Japanese drama "First Love," the main characters took the cable car to the observation deck to admire the night view, adding to Tengu-yama's already stellar reputation. It's a must-visit when exploring Otaru!

Besides the observation deck at the summit, you'll find the "Tengu Nose." Rubbing its nose is said to make wishes come true, and the "Chipmunk Park," allows close encounters with chipmunks. Here, you can experience a different kind of leisurely stroll, distinct from the hustle and bustle of Otaru city.

Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

You can reach the Ropeway by car in about 15 minutes from Otaru station or just under an hour from Sapporo Minami IC. From JR Otaru Station, the city bus reaches the ropeway in about 17 minutes, with two to three departures each hour. Travelers coming from Sapporo can take the frequent express bus to Otaru, which runs every five to ten minutes during the day, then transfer to the local bus for the final stretch.

The Tenguyama Ropeway runs year-round, with a five-minute ride carrying you from the base to the summit of Mount Tengu. Fares are fixed at 1,800 yen for adults and 900 yen for children for a round trip, or 1,080 yen and 540 yen one way. Pets can also ride for a small fee. If you show an Otaru city bus one-day ticket at the ropeway counter, the round-trip price drops to 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for children.

Great-value set tickets are also available, combining the ropeway with transport: from Sapporo, the package costs 3,180 yen for adults and 1,590 yen for children, and from Otaru, it is 2,250 yen for adults and 1,120 yen for children. Tickets can be purchased at the Sapporo Bus Ticketing Counter or at the Otaru Bus Terminal.

Hours vary by season. From mid-April to early November, the ropeway runs until around 21:00, while in winter it closes earlier.

Sakaimachi Street, just across the Otaru Canal, is a must-visit destination for food and shopping enthusiasts. This approximately 900-meter-long one-way street stretches from the former Bank of Japan Otaru Branch to the gorgeous intersection known as the Fairy Tale Crossroads. The street is lined with a variety of stores, ranging from establishments housed in historic buildings to those creatively renovated.

The joy of travel often lies in the discovery of delicious cuisine and shopping delights.

And, if you're looking to satisfy both your culinary cravings and souvenir hunting in one go, Sakaimachi Street is the place to be. The street is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find what you're looking for.

Sakaimachi is home to iconic glass art shops such as Kitaichi Glass and the Taisho Glass House, representing Otaru's renowned glass craftsmanship.

Other noteworthy destinations include the Otaru Music Box Museum and numerous general stores where you can purchase souvenirs. There are also many well-known sushi restaurants and seafood rice bowl eateries, making it an excellent spot for lunch.

Dessert shops are just as much of a draw. Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and LeTAO all have branches here, turning the street into a sweet-tooth trail.

Most shops close in the evening, so early birds will make the most of their visit.

The Otaru Aquarium is a longstanding aquarium that emphasizes both animal conservation and care. Inside, you'll find rare marine creatures such as green sea turtles and giant spider crabs.

The Marine Mammal Park, located outside the facility, is designed to mimic the natural coastal environment and houses creatures like sea urchins, abalones, seals, and sea lions. The scheduled dolphin shows, sea lion performances, and feeding seals are highly popular among visitors.

​​A highlight of the Otaru Aquarium is the seasonal penguin walk, held in both summer and winter. In winter, the birds waddle through the snow, while in summer they parade along a special course, both of which are favorites for all aquarium goers.

Otaru Aquarium is easy to reach from JR Otaru Station. Take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus bound for Otaru Aquarium (lines 10 “Otaru Aquarium” or 11 “Shukutsu via Yamanote”), departing from platform 3 at Otaru Station Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 25 minutes, and buses leave several times each hour. In summer, from April to October, you can also take a sightseeing ship: a 10-minute walk from Otaru Station to Wharf No.3, followed by a 20-minute boat ride to Shukutsu Port, and a final 10-minute walk. There's also a transportation package available for the Otaru Aquarium (JR + bus + admission ticket) at several JR stations in Hokkaido, which is worth considering.

Otaru is a town renowned for its exquisite seafood dining, thanks to its abundant seafood resources, owing to its coastal location. If you are a seafood enthusiast, you must visit the Otaru Triangle Market, located right beside Otaru Station. Also known as Sankaku Market, this seafood haven is home to numerous fresh fish shops that offer a variety of dishes.

Among the popular dishes that you can indulge in are freshly sliced tuna bowls and luxurious seafood bowls adorned with sea urchin and salmon roe. The portions are so generous that they almost overflow the bowl. Takeda Fresh Fish Store and Takinami Shokudo are particularly popular among the visitors.

The Triangle Market opens at 6 AM, with dining establishments starting to serve from 7 AM. Most of them close by 5 PM. To avoid the long lines and savor the freshest seafood, consider avoiding the lunchtime rush and kickstart your day with a seafood breakfast. However, please note that the opening hours of the restaurants may vary.

Otaru is known for its sushi, and even its conveyor belt restaurants maintain a high standard. Kaitenzushi Waraku is a conveyor belt sushi restaurant highly favored by discerning locals. Importing fresh seafood daily, the menu features popular ingredients like Honmaguro tuna, sea urchin, and botan shrimp, as well as local specialties like Ikamaki octopus and Beni salmon. With prices starting from 150 yen (excluding tax), it offers unbeatable value in terms of both freshness and flavor!

The restaurant is located near the Otaru Canal and provides Chinese and English menus. The exterior exudes a charming vintage feel. To avoid long waits, it's best to steer clear of peak dining hours such as lunch and dinner time.

Marinated, seasoned, and fried whole in halves, Otaru’s ‘Fried Half-Chicken’ has become one of the city’s signature comfort foods. Despite its peculiar appearance, this local delicacy, deep-fried with patience at low temperatures, has a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat that is irresistible after the first bite.

Wakadori Jidai Naruto is the birthplace of fried half-chicken, and since its founding in 1952, continues to be a beloved spot among locals and attracts numerous tourists seeking its well-known flavors. It's highly recommended for travelers who aren't fond of seafood or are looking to explore a different taste sensation!

LeTAO is a popular dessert shop with several stores in the Otaru region, attracting many LeTAO enthusiasts both in Japan and internationally. Among them, LeTAO PATHOS, located on Sakaimachi Shopping Street, is the largest in Otaru.

The first floor is dedicated to souvenirs, while the second floor has a spacious café serving up a variety of desserts, from soft-serve ice cream to seasonal cakes.

LeTAO PATHOS's more popular dessert is the "Double Plate," which allows you to savor three LeTAO cakes at once. The parfait featuring blueberry or Tokachi fresh milk strawberry flavors is also highly cherished by customers.

If you're looking for savory dishes, LeTAO PATHOS has got you covered. During lunchtime, you can enjoy baked pasta and beef omelet rice, among other dishes.

Whether you're stopping by for lunch or afternoon tea, visiting LeTAO PATHOS is always a great choice. And after indulging in your delightful treats, you can even pick up some souvenirs to take home with you.

Locally brewed Otaru Beer is also quite popular in Otaru. Along the Otaru Canal, there's a brewery and restaurant called Otaru Beer Warehouse No. 1. Here, you can not only explore the brewing process but also sample Otaru Beer crafted using organic malt and organic hops.

The beers range from tasty lagers to fruitier styles and are best paired with the house German-style pork cutlets or sausages. Brewed with Otaru’s mineral-rich water, they have a depth that appeals to beer enthusiasts who enjoy quality craft beer. So, make sure to include it in your itinerary!

While Otaru showcases influences from Europe and America through its historical buildings and glass crafts, there are also many places to explore Japanese history. One such place is the Tanaka Shuzo sake brewery, established in 1899. They produce the locally beloved Takaragawa sake, as well as various other alcoholic beverages like plum wine, sweet sake, and mirin. Making the most of Otaru's cold climate, the brewery operates year-round, allowing visitors to witness the sake-making process at any time of the year.

Tanaka Shuzo Kikkogura is housed in a stone warehouse built in 1905 and is designated as a historical building in Otaru City. Their free brewery tour takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes and provides a close-up view of the sake-making process. After the tour, visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of around 10 types of fresh, locally brewed sake and liqueurs made with underground water from Tengu Mountain and local Hokkaido rice. For non-drinkers, there are also offerings like steamed buns, senbei (rice crackers), black soybean tea, and more available for purchase.

You can reach the brewery via a 5-minute walk from JR Minami‑Otaru Station. Another option is to take the Chuo Bus towards 2 2 Nobukachō from Otaru Station and alight at Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura‑mae.

The Otaru Sakaimachi Shopping Street is a popular tourist destination located just over from the Otaru Canal. It is a one-way street that is roughly 900 meters long and lined with retro buildings that exude a touch of European charm.

Most of the shops here revolve around souvenirs and food, with well-known names such as Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and LeTAO alongside museums and craft workshops like Kitaichi Glass, Taisho Glass Hall, and the Otaru Music Box Museum.

It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from JR Otaru Station, passing by other attractions along the way. Conveniently situated for tourists, this street is a must-visit, especially during winter when the snow-covered scenery adds a magical touch.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that most shops close early in the evening, so it is best to plan to arrive early.

Nestled in the enchanting Fairy Tale Crossroads of Sakaimachi Shopping Street stands the prominent tower-like structure of Otaru's well-known dessert and souvenir haven, the LeTAO Main Store. The ground floor offers an array of signature items such as the iconic double-layered cheesecake, cheese-filled cookies, and black tea chocolate cookies. Visitors can also explore exclusive items unique to this flagship store, and international tourists can take advantage of duty-free privileges.

Onthe second floor, a cozy café awaits, providing a delightful setting to indulge in LeTAO's delectable cakes. On the third floor, a complimentary observation deck offers panoramic views of the Fairy Tale Crossroads and Otaru's picturesque harbor. Along Sakaimachi Shopping Street, LeTAO enthusiasts can also discover other LeTAO establishments, including LeTAO PATHOS, the chocolate-focused NOUVELLE VAGUE LeTAO Chocolatier Otaru Main Store, the cheese Danish specialist FROMAGE DANIS DANI LeTAO, and LeTAO PLUS, where delightful treats like soft-serve ice cream and cake rolls are available for takeout.

LeTAO’s many branches along Sakaimachi Street make it easy to taste different sweets as you wander through this part of Otaru.

For true chocolate lovers, the NOUVELLE VAGUE LeTAO Chocolatier Otaru Main Store stands as a paradise of cocoa delights. This shop, located in the heart of Otaru, specializes in crafting exquisite chocolates that captivate the senses. The emphasis on quality ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship results in a range of chocolates that are as visually stunning as they are indulgent.

NOUVELLE VAGUE LeTAO Chocolatier specializes in chocolate in all forms, from pralines and truffles to bars infused with distinctive flavors. The shop raises the level of chocolate connoisseurship with its focus on texture and taste, plus limited-edition creations ensure there is always something new to try alongside the classics.

Whether you're seeking a luxurious gift or a personal indulgence, the Otaru Main Store of NOUVELLE VAGUE LeTAO Chocolatier promises a delectable experience for chocolate lovers.

Another pitstop on Otaru’s dessert trail is LeTAO Plus.

LeTAO Plus offers a yummy variety of sweets to satisfy your sweet tooth. From luscious ice cream creations to tempting roll cakes, this shop provides the perfect treats for an on-the-go dessert experience.

One highlight is the Frosty Bliss Ice Cream, a signature item that combines rich, creamy ice cream with LeTAO's exceptional flavors. The shop's roll cakes, including the popular Double Fromage Roll, showcase the same commitment to quality and taste that has made LeTAO a household name.

LeTAO Plus offers a way to snack on Otaru’s signature sweets on the go, making it easy to pick up something for a stroll through the city or a scenic train ride onward.

In addition to dessert shops, you'll find several glass art and craft stores along Sakaimachi Shopping Street. Among them, Kitachi Glass, established in 1901, stands out, especially with its charming "Number 3 Building," a historical stone warehouse turned into a shopping haven. The store showcases products like kerosene lamps, wind chimes, glass cups, and decorative pieces, all meticulously crafted by skilled artisans. Though similar, each piece carries a unique handmade charm that shines when touched by light and shadow. You can discover Japanese-style glass tableware, sake glasses, and traditional decorations, making them perfect as souvenirs or thoughtful gifts.

Number 3 Building also houses the Kitachi Tea Room, a well-known local cafe in Otaru. Step inside to experience the enchantment of 167 manually lit oil lamps that cast a flickering glow and create a dreamy atmosphere. Grab a seat, order a cup of their special milk tea ice cream, and relish in the elegant vintage ambiance.

The Otaru Canal is edged with stone warehouses and historic façades that reflect the city’s trading history. From the pathways, it is already a gorgeous sight, but stepping onto the water gives it another dimension. The Otaru Canal Cruise runs for about 40 minutes, tracing the canal and out toward the harbor. Along the way, the captain shares stories about the city’s history, while you take in views of the old buildings, bridges, and waterfront that are difficult to see from the street. Boats are fitted with tents and heated seats between November and March, though it can still feel cold, so warm clothing is recommended.

If you're looking for a unique way to explore Otaru, ride a traditional rickshaw with Rickshaw Ebisuya Otaru! Strong and knowledgeable rickshaw pullers will guide you around the Otaru Canal and its surroundings, providing insights into various attractions. They might even share some hidden gems that are not widely known, ensuring you get the full experience of Otaru's sights and sounds.

The rickshaws come equipped with a canopy, offering shade on sunny days or protection from snowfall during winter. Blankets and warmers are also provided for additional comfort in colder weather. The rickshaw pullers are attentive to the passengers' needs, and some can communicate in foreign languages, making it a recommended experience for both international visitors and locals.

Otaru is closely associated with music boxes, and one of the best ways to experience that tradition is to make one yourself. At the Otaru Music Box Museum or the nearby Handcraft Experience Yu-Kobo, you can browse the displays of finely made pieces before joining a workshop. You select the tune and decorative details, then assemble a music box that becomes a personal keepsake, carrying a melody that will always remind you of your time in Otaru.

About 10 minutes from JR Otaru Station, the Kitaichi Glass Hanazono Store not only sells glass products such as water pens, gas lamps, and glassware but is also the only branch that offers glass engraving and bead craft activities for visitors.

In the glass engraving session, fine sand is applied to the glass surface before carving text or patterns (depending on the course). This activity takes about 1 to 2 hours, while the glass bead craft session is simpler and faster, allowing you to create accessories like pendants, hair ties, or charms based on your preferences in about 20 to 30 minutes. Both workshops allow you to take home your handmade creations; if you have a smaller group, you can even sign up on the spot. It's a great option for budget-conscious visitors who want to leave with special memories.

Blue Cave, situated in the opposite direction of the bustling Otaru city center, is a coastal cave that cannot be accessed directly from land. It's impossible for large vessels to approach, making it a hidden gem only accessible via small sightseeing boats. It's truly a maritime wonder! Several operators offer Blue Cave exploration tours near the Hanazono Seaside Park, close to the Fairy Tale Crossroads. You can also make reservations online in advance for a convenient exploration of this interesting cave.

Otaru’s streets, with their European-influenced warehouses and canals, take on a different feel when explored in traditional Japanese dress. Kimono rental shops such as Otome no Kimono, located just a few minutes’ walk from JR Otaru Station, provide full sets that include the robe, sash, and accessories, with staff to dress you properly. Sizes are available for both men and women, and couples or groups can rent together. Once dressed, you can stroll through the canal area or along Sakaimachi Street in a kimono.

Many visitors choose to hire a photographer to capture the contrast of traditional attire against Otaru’s stone buildings and historic shopfronts. Rentals typically start from around 4,000 yen, and English support is available for overseas guests.

Sapporo Kokusai is one of the nearest ski spots to Otaru, sitting in the mountains about 40 minutes away by car. The resort is popular thanks to heavy snowfall in the area, often leaving a deep layer of light powder that lasts well into spring.

Show off your skills on seven courses served by a gondola and several lifts, welcoming both beginners and advanced skiers.

The longest run stretches for 3.6 kilometers, giving amateur skiers plenty of space to practice while more experienced riders head off-piste in search of fresh snow.

Facilities include ski and snowboard rentals as well as lessons in English. There is also a family-friendly snow park with tubing and sledding, perfect for spending an outdoorsy day, even if not everyone wants to ski.

You can drive to Kokusai Ski Resort from Otaru in under an hour, or take the train to Sapporo and connect with a direct ski bus to the resort from Sapporo Station North Exit.

Book your one-day pass online for 5,500 yen.

The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is a famous winter activity held in Hokkaido every February. The festival transforms the canal and its banks into a mesmerizing display of countless handmade snow lanterns. As night falls, the lanterns twinkle on the water's surface like stars, creating a romantic scene complemented by falling snowflakes.

This breathtaking spectacle has become a major attraction, drawing visitors from far and wide. If you plan to visit Otaru in winter, make sure to witness this stunning display.

In addition to the main festival, smaller neighborhood events like Otaru Yukiakari no Michi often extend the winter lights, with local volunteers setting candles and lanterns along side streets and residential areas, keeping the town glowing even after the official festival ends.

The event lasts a week, and in 2026 will run from 8 to 15 February.

Otaru’s largest summer celebration, Ushio Festival, has been held since 1967 and honors the port and its community. For three days, the city is filled with parades, food stalls, melodic taiko drumming, and street dancing in yukata. Portable shrines known as mikoshi are carried through town on the final day, before the festival closes with a large fireworks display over the bay. The festival usually falls on the last weekend of July, so for 2026, the dates are expected to be 24 to 26 July.

The climax of the Ushio Festival is the evening fireworks show, with around 5,000 rounds launched from Pier No. 3. The bursts light up both the bay and the canal district, and many locals reserve spots along the waterfront hours before the show begins.

From the start of December until Christmas, the streets along the canal are decorated with trees and strings of lights. The gas lamps already lining the water add to the holiday feel, making Otaru a fantastic Christmas town. Several cafés and shops stay open later in the season, so it is easy to pair the lights with an evening stroll and a meal.

Otaru is not only focused on its canal. It is a city of sweets and seafood, of glass workshops with beautiful handmade pieces, and of coastal views that change with the season. You can spend the day snacking, walking, and browsing, then settle into one of the town’s hotels before heading back out again. Whether it is night lights reflected on the water or the sound of a music box you’ve put together yourself, Otaru will stay in your mind and heart long after you leave.

*The information in this article is accurate as of September 2025. Please refer to official websites for the latest information.