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.

The town is known for its abundance of seafood, serving up delicacies like seafood bowls and sushi. Additionally, the city's local cuisine, including stir-fried noodles and half-chicken tempura, further solidifies Otaru as a must-visit Hokkaido destination.

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!

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.

Otaru, a city in Japan, has a long history of railways dating back to 1882. It proudly holds the title of the "Birthplace of Hokkaido Railway." The city is located about 15 minutes from Otaru Canal.

The Otaru City Museum Main Building is a great destination for families seeking an enjoyable educational experience. The museum showcases a collection of imported steam locomotives from Hokkaido's era of development, trains that played significant roles during the national railway period, and various train-related exhibits.

The museum is not just a pilgrimage site for train enthusiasts, but it also offers a glimpse into the significance of railways in Japan's development. The exhibits help visitors to understand the history and evolution of railways in the country.

Adjacent to the canal, the Otaru City Museum Canal Museum focuses on local history and nature, displaying over 20,000 items. The building itself is a historical landmark completed in 1893. The admission fee for the main building is 400 yen, the canal museum is 300 yen, and for both, the "Combined Admission Ticket" is 500 yen (free for junior high school students and younger, and half price for high school students and those aged 70 and above). Getting the combined ticket is recommended for a more cost-effective visit to both museums.

In the center of Otaru's urban landscape, there is a unique cultural hub called the Otaru Art Base. This hub includes a cluster of early 20th-century historical buildings that have been designated as cultural 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.

To fully enjoy the Otaru Art Village, visitors should take advantage of the cost-effective "Four-in-One Museum Pass," which allows entry to all four museums. This pass is a great way to experience the unique cultural offerings of the Otaru Art Base and explore the history and art of the city.

What was 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 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.

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
・Season: April 15, 2023 - November 5, 2023
・Hours: Ascent - 9:00 AM - 8:48 PM, Descent - 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; *Season and hours are subject to change.
・Fare: Round trip - Adults (junior high school students and older): 1,600 yen, Children: 800 yen; One-way - Adults: 960 yen, Children: 480 yen; One adult can bring one child who is not enrolled in school (free of charge for children who are not enrolled in school).

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 enchanting 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.

One of the main reasons why tourists flock to Sakaimachi Street is its proximity to the Otaru Canal, which makes it a magnet for numerous visitors seeking a delightful blend of dining and shopping experiences. The joy of travel often lies in the discovery of delicious cuisine and shopping delights.

If you're looking to satisfy both your culinary cravings and shopping desires in one go, Sakaimachi Street is the perfect place to be. You can explore the various establishments that offer a wide range of delicacies and souvenirs. The street is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find what you're looking for.

The street 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.

Additionally, dessert lovers will find a haven here, with shops like Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and LeTAO all gathered in one place, offering a delightful dessert journey. 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.

One of the notable attractions of the Otaru Aquarium is the beloved "penguin strolls," held in both winter and summer. These showcase the adorable waddling penguins, especially charming when they make their way through the snow in winter!

For transportation, you can take a bus from Otaru Station, which is approximately a 25-minute ride. There's also a transportation package available for the Otaru Aquarium (JR + bus + admission ticket), 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. The market is home to numerous seafood and 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 renowned for its sushi, and even conveyor belt sushi ensures a quality dining experience. 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.

Marinated and seasoned after halving the chicken, the "Fried Half-Chicken" is the soulful cuisine of Otaru. Despite its peculiar appearance, this local delicacy, deep-fried with patience at low temperatures, has a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat that irresistible after the first bite. Wakadori Jidai Naruto is originator 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 taste. 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 of LeTAO PATHOS serves as a souvenir shopping area, while the second floor houses a spacious and comfortable café. The shop offers a variety of limited edition desserts, including soft-serve ice cream and cakes.

The most popular dessert at LeTAO PATHOS 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 savor Otaru Beer crafted using organic malt, organic hops, and the mineral-rich Otaru water. The beer comes in various fruity flavors, complemented by signature German-style pork cutlets or sausages. The rich high-quality taste is a must-try for beer enthusiasts who appreciate fine brews – 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. The brewery tour takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes, providing 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.

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 establishments here focus on souvenirs and delightful dining experiences. This street has a significant presence of stores like Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and LeTAO, along with several museums and craft workshops including Kitachi 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. Don't miss the chance to explore and savor the diverse offerings of LeTAO in this charming corner 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.

Explore an array of chocolate-based treats, from pralines and truffles to bars infused with unique flavors. NOUVELLE VAGUE LeTAO Chocolatier takes chocolate connoisseurship to a new level, offering a sensory journey through diverse textures and taste profiles. The store also features limited-edition creations, making each visit an opportunity to discover something new and exclusive.

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.

As you continue your sweet journey through Otaru, make a pitstop at LeTAO Plus.

LeTAO Plus offers a delightful 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.

Whether you're strolling along the charming streets of Otaru or preparing for a scenic train ride, LeTAO Plus ensures that you can savor the iconic flavors of LeTAO wherever your journey takes you.

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.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Otaru's historic buildings along the iconic Otaru Canal, a captivating scene that resembles a masterpiece from any angle. To fully immerse yourself in the charm of Otaru's architectural history, consider taking the Otaru Canal Cruise. While the captain comments on the surrounding scenery, you can appreciate unique views only accessible from the water. The cruise takes about 40 minutes, allowing you to explore various attractions, and the comfortable ambiance on the boat makes it a favorite among tourists.

If you're looking for a unique way to explore Otaru, consider riding on 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 charm.

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 alike.

Creating your own unique music box is a must-try experience in Otaru, known for its exquisite craftsmanship. At the Otaru Music Box Museum and the nearby Handcraft Experience Yu-Kobo, you can not only explore and purchase finely crafted music boxes but also make your own. In the workshop, you get to choose the music and decorative elements to craft a one-of-a-kind music box and a very personalized reminder of your visit to Otaru, making it a special and unique activity worth exploring during your trip.

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 the 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 seamless exploration of this interesting cave.

Otaru isn't just about the charming Otaru Canal; it's a haven for those with a sweet tooth, impressive scenery, and a creative streak.

Indulge in delightful treats that will leave you craving more. Whether it's the mesmerizing night views, the picturesque seaside, or engaging in hands-on glassmaking workshops, Otaru has something to offer every season.

With a plethora of accommodation options in the area, you can easily retreat to a cozy hotel after a day of exploration. Otaru is a must-visit Hokkaido destination, offering a perfect blend of sightseeing, gastronomic delights, and relaxation!

*The information in this article is accurate as of September 2023. Please refer to official websites for the latest information.