Where Cobblestone Streets Meet the Sea Breeze
🌟 What is Otaru?
Otaru is a charming harbor city on Hokkaido’s west coast, just a short ride from Sapporo. Known for its nostalgic canals, glass workshops, and fresh seafood, this town blends history, art, and romance. Perfect for a slow walk, a sweet bite, or a photo by the sea—it’s a peaceful escape with old-world vibes.
🔭 Why Visit Otaru?
✅ Otaru Canal: Stroll along this picture-perfect waterway lit by gas lamps
✅ Fresh Sushi: Try the best seafood straight from the harbor
✅ Glass & Music Boxes: Handmade crafts everywhere—great souvenirs
✅ Historic Warehouses: Now cafes, museums, and sake breweries
✅ Sakaimachi Street: A charming shopping street full of local treasures
✅ Romantic Winter Lights: Magical in snow with lantern festivals
📸 Featured Spots
| Spot | Description |
|---|---|
| Otaru Canal | Stone-paved paths and calm waters—especially beautiful at night |
| Sakaimachi Street | Lined with historic shops selling glass, sweets, and art |
| Otaru Music Box Museum | Vintage melodies and delicate music boxes in a classic building |
| Kitaichi Glass | Famous local glass shop—great for shopping and photo ops |
| Otaru Aquarium | A fun seaside spot with seals, penguins, and sea lions |
| Mount Tengu Ropeway | Scenic views of the town and coastline, especially at sunset |
🎟️ Admission & Booking
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Otaru Music Box Museum | Free | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Kitaichi Glass Studio Tour | Free / Paid crafts | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Otaru Aquarium | ¥1,500 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal) |
| Mt. Tengu Ropeway | ¥1,400 round trip | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (seasonal) |
🚨 Visitor Tips
📷 The canal is most romantic during twilight or snow
🍣 Head to Sushiya-dori Street for top-quality sushi
🎁 Many shops offer hands-on glass or music box experiences
🧣 Winters are icy—wear boots and layers
🚉 Trains to/from Sapporo run often, but check return times!
🚉 Access
Nearest Station:
🚉 Otaru Station (JR Hakodate Line)
From Major Locations:
🚄 Sapporo → Otaru = ~35 min via JR Rapid Airport
✈️ New Chitose Airport → Otaru = ~1 hr 30 min via train transfer
🚘 By car: ~45–60 min from Sapporo
🏨 Top 3 Recommended Hotels in Otaru
🏙️ Hotel Nord Otaru – Classic European style near the canal
🛏️ Authent Hotel Otaru – Central and walkable, cozy interiors
💼 GRIDS Premium Hotel Otaru – Stylish, modern, great for young travelers
🍴 Top 3 Must-Try Eats in Otaru
🍣 Sushidokoro Masa – Top-rated sushi with local flair
🍮 LeTAO Main Shop – Famous cheesecake and sweets with a café view
🍜 Otaru Aoba – Classic soy sauce ramen in a retro vibe
📍 Address & Contact
Otaru Tourist Information Center
📍 Inside JR Otaru Station
📞 +81-134-33-1661
🌐 https://otaru.gr.jp/en