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
-
Explore Japan in 7 Days: The Ultimate Local Rail Adventure with the Hokkaido & East Japan Pass
by: Guest Contributor
-
Ad
Sapporo SATUDORA Shopping Guide: Get Souvenirs, Medicine & More at This Iconic Drugstore (Special Deal Inside!)
-
Expert-Recommended: 9 Hakodate Hotels Serving Up the Best Breakfasts in Town
by: Nobuka Kawashima
-
BIGGEST SALE ALERT! SATUDORA Tax-Free Winter Sale: Stack Coupons for Massive Savings!
by: Guest Contributor
-
Ad
Explore Eastern Hokkaido from Tancho Kushiro Airport: Your Gateway to Grand Nature
-
Ad
Smart Ways to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy a Safe, Comfortable Trip to Noboribetsu Onsen
-
Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS): Complete Guide to Restaurants, Souvenirs, Shopping & More!
-
From March 2026, All JR Hokkaido Limited Express Trains Become Reserved! What Travelers Need to Know
by: Shingo Teraoka
-
First Time in Niseko Guide – What You Need to Know
by: Sloane Japan
-
20 Best Things to Do in Sapporo - Recommended by Locals
-
Sightseeing in Sapporo: Guide to New Shops and Attractions for 2023
by: Nobuka Kawashima
-
8 Unfamiliar (But Totally Normal) Customs in Japan!
- #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












