Otaru Sushi Street is a 200-meter stretch between National Highway No. 5 and the Otaru Canal along which are lined many sushi shops making it the place to eat sushi.

Otaru Sushiya-dori Nihonbashi was established more than 40 years ago and is located just inside Otaru Sushi Street not far from JR Otaru Station.

After you duck under the noren (shop curtain outside the entrance) you step into a spacious room exuding warmth. Shortly after the shop opens the counter is soon filled with patrons watching the itamae (sushi chef) skillfully preparing dishes.

In addition to the counter, there are rooms for small groups as well as a large one able to accommodate up to 50 people.

The itamae, or sushi chefs, hail from port towns and have grown up surrounded by fish and those who catch them. This upbringing has endowed them with exceptional skills in preparing nigiri using the freshest natural ingredients, ensuring the seafood’s flavor is preserved in every bite.

Highlights from the menu include the Otaru Nigiri, which showcases seasonal seafood from Otaru, and the beloved Otaru Monogatari set course, featuring tempura, sashimi, and a dessert for a comprehensive taste of local cuisine. Another recommendation is the Otaru Dobin, a dish that captures the delicate flavor of steamed fresh seafood.

Securing a seat at the counter offers the additional delight of watching the itamae at work, skillfully preparing your dishes. Their ability to engage in conversation further enriches the dining experience, making it truly memorable.

Otaru Fuku Sushi is one of the popular sightseeing spots among the many on Sakaimachi-dori. Kitaichi Glass and the Otaru Music Box Museum are also nearby. This popular sushiya is located a 5-minute walk from the Otaru Canal.

Inside the atmosphere is one of clean and modern Japanese sophistication. There are tables that can seat many people as well as horikotatsu, the low table on tatami-mat flooring with a recessed area below it for legs.

This Otaru sushi shop is always crowded during the lunch hour, but relatively less so in the evenings. The best seats for enjoying the fresh sushi are of course at the counter where you can enjoy observing the skills of the itamae.

Seafood freshly caught in the waters near Otaru is delivered directly by the fishermen, ensuring about 30 varieties of neta, often considered a rare treat, are consistently available.

Among the favorite sushi options are the Otaru Nigiri, which features a selection of classic neta; the Shun no Omakase Nigiri, a chef's choice of the freshest seasonal neta received that day; and bowl dishes like Shunsai Chirashi and Isaribi Chirashi, both of which are rich in variety and flavor. The Funamori, sushi presented in a boat-shaped container, has gained popularity among international guests. Pairing beer with these fresh seafood dishes enhances the dining experience, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Otaru Take no Sushi is nestled within the historic Nakayama Warehouse and Home, constructed at the dawn of the Taisho era, around 100 years ago.

Situated at the heart of the bustling Sakaimachi-dori, its chic, retro facade is unmistakable. The interior, too, retains echoes of its rich history, offering a tranquil ambiance that invites relaxation.

The ground floor accommodates both a sushi counter and several tables for diners, while the upstairs hosts a spacious table capable of welcoming large groups, making it an ideal setting for gatherings and banquets. At Otaru Take no Sushi, guests are treated to both the captivating history of Otaru and the unparalleled freshness of its sushi.

The sushi at this establishment features neta prepared from seafood freshly caught off the Otaru coast, presented on shari crafted from a special blend of rice grown in Hokkaido. Highlighted offerings include the Sapporo Nigiri and Furano Nigiri, two beloved sets named after Hokkaido towns, showcasing the local flavors. The Otaru Nigiri stands out as a beautifully arranged masterpiece on a lengthy plate.

For those who prefer a single type of neta, the Maguro Dzukushi (tuna selection) and Salmon Dzukushi (salmon selection) are perfect choices. Additionally, the Ainori-don offers a customizable experience with mixed toppings, catering to diverse tastes. The menu also features various other bowl dishes, embracing the philosophy that dining should always be a pleasure.

Otaru Sushi Ko stands out with its unique exterior, echoing the look of a traditional stone warehouse. Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from the Otaru Canal, it offers an ideal spot for a meal amidst a day of sightseeing.

The restaurant is known for its reasonable prices and the flexibility to order just one piece of sushi at a time, making it a hit among tourists. The first floor features a welcoming counter and tables, while the second floor houses a koagari-style room, offering a more relaxed dining experience that appeals to both the young and the old. The sushi chef, deeply rooted in Otaru from childhood, is committed to using only the finest seafood to prepare dishes that leave a lasting impression.

The menu features set dishes tailored for individuals, like the Otaru Nigiri and Nagomi, which are reasonably priced and offer a delightful taste of popular sushi fillings. With individual pieces starting at an affordable price, this option is perfect for those looking to try a variety of dishes without a large commitment.

Additionally, the bowl menu offers a wide selection, including the beloved Hokkaido-don, a dish that boasts a luxurious topping of salmon, salmon roe, and sea urchin, among other delicacies from Hokkaido. For a personalized touch, guests can opt for the Original-don, allowing them to choose their preferred sushi fillings. Another standout is the Irodori Chirashi, a colorful assortment of seafood served over rice, demonstrating the rich variety available. These dishes are just a few examples of what's on offer, inviting guests to explore a world of flavors.

The conveyor belt sushi (called kaiten-zushi) shops of Otaru also serve high-quality sushi.

One that is favored by local residents with discerning palates is the Waraku Kaiten Sushi Otaru shop. Located near the Otaru Canal, it is thought highly of by tourists who like its stone warehouse exterior and small garden at the entrance. The high ceiling and large windows give it a more spacious feeling creating a cheerful and bright atmosphere.

Its popularity makes it crowded during the lunch hour, but if you have to wait to be seated, you’ll be told approximately how long the wait will be, during which time you can pass the time sightseeing around the canal. The area around here is lit up at night enveloping it in a nostalgic atmosphere.

This is an Otaru shop where you can comfortably savor fresh neta stocked daily with seafood caught along the coast of Otaru.

These include octopus caught at Mashike, sockeye salmon caught in the northern sea, and natural young yellowtail tuna called Warasa.

The menu often is changed to include seasonal dishes throughout the four seasons with such items as rape blossoms and asparagus that contribute to a subtler and deeper experience. Here, too, you can enjoy Nordic salmon and neta from all parts of Japan.

This rotary sushi uses the finest vinegar for its shari (rice), soy sauce, and seaweed, making it seem like no other rotary sushi you may have experienced.