Around 30 vendors will gather at the night market, serving up local favorites from Otaru and across Hokkaido. Grab a freshly prepared dish or specialty drink, then stroll along the North Canal as the lights shimmer on the water for a laid-back side of Otaru that feels completely different after dark.

During the event, the North Canal will glow with decorative lights, lanterns, and traditional chochin. Their soft light reflects off the historic warehouses and calm canal waters, creating a magical scene you can only experience after dark. It is a beautiful setting for an evening stroll and plenty of photos.

Beyond the food and nighttime scenery, the festival offers plenty of ways to experience Otaru’s culture. Enjoy live music performances against the atmospheric backdrop of the historic warehouses, and watch gentle lantern light glow across the canal.

You can also take part in a Japan Heritage city walking game, a fun way to explore the area while learning more about Otaru’s history.

Otaru may be famous for its picture-perfect daytime scenery, but the city is just as captivating after sunset. The Otaru Next 100 Executive Committee is working to showcase this lesser-seen side of the city, encouraging visitors to linger after a day of sightseeing and discover the atmospheric North Canal at night.

If you’re visiting Hokkaido in September, add North Canal Night Market Yummy-ichi 2026 to your itinerary for a memorable taste of Otaru on a crisp autumn evening.

・Event Name: North Canal Night Market Yummy-ichi 2026 (北運河ナイトマーケット Yummy市 2026)
・Dates: September 19–26, 2026 (8 days)
・Hours: 5–9 PM
・Venue: North Canal, Otaru, Hokkaido (from Chuo Bridge along the Otaru Canal promenade to the plaza in front of the former Hokkai Seikan Warehouse No. 3)
・Admission: Free
・Highlights: Food market with around 30 vendors, illuminations, live music, and more