Guide to Otaru

Less than an hour from Sapporo by train, the city of Otaru preserves the heritage of Hokkaido’s trading past along its Venice-like canal district. Once a major port city driving Hokkaido’s development, today this seaside town captivates visitors with its well-preserved stone warehouses, delectable sushi restaurants, and artisanal glass workshops. While the famous canal area draws photographers year-round, Otaru’s charm extends beyond its waterfront, from sake breweries housed in historic buildings to markets that showcase some of the best quality seafood in all of Japan.

From Sapporo Station, frequent rapid trains connect to Otaru in just around 40 minutes. For those arriving at New Chitose Airport, take the rapid airport express direct to Otaru Station, with a total journey time of about 90 minutes. Driving from Sapporo is also an excellent option, typically taking about 45 minutes to an hour, with rental cars available for pickup at Sapporo Station.

Otaru’s main attractions cluster within walking distance of Otaru Station, with the canal district just a 15-minute stroll away. The town's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. For those wanting to visit attractions like Otaru Aquarium or Mount Tengu, regular buses operate from the station area, while renting a car is recommended for those looking to explore areas outside of the city.

Otaru’s main attractions showcase the city’s evolution from a bustling port to a tourist destination. While the famous canal district draws visitors, the city offers a rich variety of other experiences, from traditional craft-making to one of Japan’s most iconic views.

1. Otaru Canal

Built in 1923 during the city’s trading heyday, this waterway stands as Otaru’s most photographed landmark. Restored stone warehouses line the canal, while Victorian-style gas lamps cast a warm glow along the waterfront promenades. Early morning offers the best views when fishing boats head out and the first light hits the historic buildings.

2. Sakaimachi Street

Running near the canal, Sakaimachi Hondori Street preserves the heart of Otaru’s merchant district. Converted warehouses now house glasswork studios where visitors can watch artisan glassmakers at work, visit old-fashioned music box shops, and grab a bite at a myriad of restaurants and cafes. The street’s architecture reflects the history of Otaru’s trading era, with many buildings dating back to the early 1900s.

3. Mount Tengu

A scenic cable car ride whisks visitors to the summit of Mount Tengu, where one of Hokkaido’s most celebrated night views awaits. From the observation deck, the illuminated city unfolds below, with its twinkling harbor lights reflecting off the Sea of Japan — a vista rated as one of Hokkaido’s three most beautiful night scenes. During the day, telescopes offer close-up views of the bustling port activity, while clear weather reveals panoramas stretching all the way to the Shakotan Peninsula. The mountain station also houses a cafe where visitors can enjoy meals with spectacular views.

4. Otaru Triangle Market (Sankaku Fish Market)

Just a few minutes’ walk from Otaru Station, Sankaku Market has been serving the freshest catches for over half a century. Local fishmongers display everything from king crab to sea urchin, with many stalls offering sample tastings. Small restaurants within the market serve donburi (rice bowls) topped with just-caught seafood, making it one of the best places to experience some of Hokkaido’s freshest bounties.

Otaru’s sushi culture ranks among Japan’s finest, thanks to the morning fish markets that supply restaurants with fresh catches daily. Local specialties include sea urchin, mantis shrimp, and abalone, and there is even a famous sushi restaurant street called Sushiya-dori filled with dozens of world-class sushi restaurants to try.

Otaru also has a long-standing beer brewing tradition that lives on at Otaru Beer Warehouse No.1, a brewery and museum housed in a former warehouse. Visitors can tour the facilities and sample German-style craft beers made with Hokkaido ingredients.

While Otaru enchants visitors year-round, the city sparkles during February’s Snow Light Path Festival. For about a week, thousands of flickering candles in snow-carved lanterns transform the canal district and surrounding street into a romantic winter walkway. The historic warehouses provide a dramatic backdrop as soft candlelight reflects off the snow and ice. The festival coincides with Sapporo’s famous snow festival, making it possible to experience Hokkaido’s most popular winter events in one trip.

1. Tabist Kaihorow Otaru

Situated in the heart of Otaru, just minutes from the canal district, Tabist Kaihorow Otaru is a boutique hotel that occupies a renovated historic building from the Taisho era. Here, minimalist rooms feature large windows overlooking the old town, and the hotel’s grand bath provides the perfect spot for evening relaxation in authentic Japanese style.

2. Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

A stylish option within Otaru’s accommodation scene, Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru sits conveniently between the station and canal district. The hotel's industrial-chic design pays homage to the city’s warehouse district, while its interior is minimalistic and modern. The hotel’s highlight is its atmospheric bar, which serves craft cocktails and local spirits, making it a popular spot for guests and visitors seeking a sophisticated night out.

3. Grand Park Otaru

Connected directly to Wing Bay Otaru shopping mall and Otaru Chikko Station, Grand Park Otaru offers breathtaking views of Ishikari Bay from its upper floors. This full-service hotel features spacious western and Japanese-style rooms, in-house restaurants, and a shop featuring local goods. Its convenient location makes it ideal for shopping and sightseeing, while the direct mall and train access are especially valuable during Hokkaido’s cold winter months.

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