Otaru, a charming city on Hokkaido’s coast, is filled with historical spots, scenic views, and unique experiences. Otaru Canal, dating back to 1923, is iconic for its romantic ambiance with gas lamps and stone warehouses that reflect the town’s former bustling trade port. Strolling along the canal, or taking a night cruise, visitors experience nostalgia wrapped in scenic beauty. From the Otaru Aquarium’s engaging marine life displays to Kitaichi Glass’s handmade crafts and the vintage music boxes at Otaru Music Box Museum, each attraction offers something special. Explore the magic of this coastal gem with its historic streets, seafood markets, and stunning views!
1. Otaru Canal
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Historical Significance and Scenic Beauty
Otaru Canal, built in 1923, stretches 1,140 meters long and tells the story of Otaru’s history as a thriving trade port for coal and herring. Lined with gas lamps and stone warehouses, the canal exudes a nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors can feel the history of Hokkaido’s development, with the modern architecture from the Meiji and Taisho periods blending seamlessly into the scenery.
Enjoying a Canal Cruise
One of the best ways to enjoy Otaru Canal is through a 40-minute cruise. It offers a different perspective of the beautiful scenery, making it a popular activity. The night cruise is especially magical, with gas lamps illuminating the canal, creating a dreamy atmosphere. It’s perfect for photography, allowing you to fully appreciate the charm of Otaru Canal.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Otaru Canal.
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2. Otaru Aquarium
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Diverse Marine Life and Shows
Otaru Aquarium is known for its wide variety of marine life. You can observe seals and penguins up close, and enjoy thrilling animal shows featuring dolphins and seals. The aquarium also has educational exhibits about the marine ecosystem, making it fun and informative for both kids and adults.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The aquarium offers family-friendly attractions, such as a touch pool where children can interact with starfish and crabs. There are also baby stroller rentals and nursing rooms, making it easy for families with small children to enjoy their visit. After touring the exhibits, you can relax at the aquarium’s café for a family-friendly break.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Otaru Aquarium.
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3. Kitaichi Glass
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The Beauty and Craftsmanship of Glassware
Kitaichi Glass is a popular Otaru attraction where visitors can admire beautiful glass products and learn about the intricate glass-making process. Founded during the Meiji period, Kitaichi Glass is highly regarded both in Japan and abroad for its craftsmanship and design.
Perfect Souvenirs
At Kitaichi Glass, you’ll find a variety of glass products, from small accessories to large interior decorations, perfect as gifts or souvenirs. Popular items include glasses and vases, and the shop offers seasonal and limited-edition designs as well. The handmade warmth of these pieces makes them ideal souvenirs to bring home from Otaru.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Kitaichi Glass.
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4. Otaru Music Box Museum
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History and Variety of Music Boxes
The Otaru Music Box Museum houses over 25,000 music boxes, showcasing the history and diversity of this nostalgic instrument. Originating in 19th-century Switzerland, music boxes spread to Japan, where Otaru’s elegant designs and melodies gained popularity. Visitors can enjoy both classic and modern designs in this charming museum.
Gift Ideas
The museum offers music boxes for sale, perfect for gifts. With their intricate craftsmanship and beautiful sound, they’re popular as wedding or birthday presents. You can also find a special souvenir for yourself, bringing a piece of Otaru’s musical charm home.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Otaru Music Box Museum.
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5. Mt. Tengu Ropeway
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Breathtaking Views from the Ropeway
Mt. Tengu Ropeway offers stunning panoramic views of Otaru city and Ishikari Bay. The 15-minute ride showcases beautiful seasonal scenery, with sunset offering a particularly magical moment as the sky turns orange, contrasting with the city and sea.
Winter Fun
In winter, Mt. Tengu is a favorite spot for skiing and snowboarding. The ski resort features a variety of courses for all levels, and night skiing under the lights creates a romantic atmosphere. Family and couples will enjoy the special winter events hosted at the resort.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Mt.Tengu Ropeway.
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6. Blue Cave Cruise
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Cruise Details
The Blue Cave Cruise is a popular tour that takes visitors along Otaru’s coastline to see the stunning Blue Cave. The cruise lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours and offers scenic views of the coastline. Onboard guides provide insights into Otaru’s history and the geological formation of the cave.
The Magic of the Blue Cave
The Blue Cave captivates visitors with its mysterious blue glow, created by the reflection of light on the clear seawater. The cave’s appearance changes depending on the weather and time of day, offering new discoveries every visit. The surrounding natural beauty adds to the charm of the cruise, making it a must-do activity when visiting Otaru.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Blue Cave Cruise.
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7. Sakaimachi Street
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Nostalgic Streetscape
Sakaimachi Street is filled with historical charm, featuring old buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods. Once a bustling trade hub, Otaru’s history as a fishing and trading port is reflected in its stone warehouses and Western-style architecture. The street feels like a time capsule, especially in the evening when the gas lamps are lit, creating a magical atmosphere.
Local Food and Shopping
Sakaimachi Street is lined with shops offering local seafood delicacies and sweets. Fresh seafood sushi and donburi are popular among tourists. The street also boasts famous dessert shops and handcraft stores, including those selling Otaru’s renowned glassware and music boxes, making it a perfect spot for shopping.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Sakaimachi Street.
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8. Otaru Kihinkan (Former Aoyama Villa)
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Historical Mansion Highlights
Otaru Kihinkan, formerly known as Aoyama Villa, is a beautiful historical mansion reflecting Otaru’s prosperous past. Once home to wealthy herring merchants, the villa boasts stunning interior décor and furnishings that transport visitors back to Otaru’s golden era. The intricate stained glass and wood carvings are especially noteworthy.
Exploring the Garden
The villa’s garden is another highlight, offering seasonal beauty throughout the year. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter provide visitors with picturesque views.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Otaru Kihinkan.
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9. Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck
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Panoramic Views
Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck offers stunning views of Otaru’s coastline and cityscape. On clear days, you can see the distant mountains and deep blue sea. At night, the city lights reflecting on the water create a romantic setting.
Photography Opportunities
The observation deck is a photographer’s dream, with changing seasonal views, golden sunsets, and active boats in the bay. It’s an ideal spot to capture the beauty of Otaru’s landscape.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck.
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10. Sankaku Market
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Fresh Seafood Shopping
Sankaku Market is the place to go for fresh seafood in Otaru. Located just over 30 minutes by express train from Sapporo, the market offers freshly caught seafood like salmon, scallops, and crab at reasonable prices. Its lively atmosphere perfectly matches Otaru’s historical landscape.
Food and Strolling
At Sankaku Market, you can enjoy fresh seafood on the spot. Try a seafood bowl topped with generous portions of uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe), or enjoy sushi and sashimi at market stalls. Walking through the market and tasting local delicacies is a memorable experience, combining Otaru’s history with culinary delights.
Check out this article for more detailed information about the Sankaku Market.
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How to get from Sapporo to Otaru
By Car
The drive from Sapporo to Otaru takes about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Take the Sasson Expressway (札樽自動車道) and head west toward Otaru. The distance is approximately 40 kilometers (about 25 miles). There are tolls on the expressway, and the route offers scenic views of the coastline and surrounding nature. Once you reach Otaru, there are several parking areas available near the main tourist spots, including Otaru Canal.
By Public Transportation
The fastest and easiest way to reach Otaru from Sapporo is by train. Take the JR Rapid Airport Line (JR快速エアポート) from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station. The journey takes about 30 to 35 minutes and costs around 750 yen one way. Trains run frequently, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes. Otaru Station is conveniently located near many popular tourist spots, including Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street.
Both options provide scenic views of the coastline, with the train offering a relaxing journey and the car giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
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