Otaru

The Romantic Canal City

Discover the Charm of Otaru

Otaru is a small harbor city that feels like a step back in time. Its beautifully preserved canal, lined with Victorian-style street lamps and old warehouses, creates a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere. The city is also renowned for its intricate glasswork and musical boxes.

Otaru Canal

Stroll along the picturesque canal, especially beautiful during the winter snow light path festival.

Glasswork Shops

Explore the famous Sakaimachi Street and admire the delicate craftsmanship of local glass artists.

Music Box Museum

Visit the enchanting Music Box Museum and find a unique, melodic souvenir.

Experience Otaru's Romance

Let the romantic atmosphere of Otaru captivate you. We can arrange a perfect day trip or a longer stay in this charming city.

Plan Your Otaru Visit

Population

110,000

Crafts

Glass & Music Boxes

Best Season

Spring to Autumn

Recommended Stay

1-2 days

Must-Visit Attractions

Otaru Canal

Historic canal with gas lamps and brick warehouses, offering charming boat tours

Otaru Music Box Museum

Largest music box museum in Japan, with a vast collection and workshops

Kitaichi Glass

Famous glass factory and shops, offering beautiful glassware and workshops

Sankaku Market

Lively seafood market right next to Otaru Station, perfect for fresh seafood bowls

Otaru Aquarium

Home to marine life from Hokkaido's waters, with popular dolphin and sea lion shows

Tenguyama Ropeway

Offers panoramic views of Otaru city, the harbor, and Ishikari Bay

Otaru Specialties

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Sushi & Seafood

Otaru is renowned for its incredibly fresh sushi and seafood, especially uni (sea urchin)

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LeTAO Cheesecake

Famous double fromage cheesecake from Otaru, a must-try dessert

🍺

Otaru Beer

Local craft beer brewed in the German tradition, available at the Otaru Beer Hall

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Squid & Herring

Traditional Otaru seafood, often enjoyed grilled or as sashimi

Best Time to Visit

❄️

Winter (Dec-Feb)

• Otaru Snow Light Path (Feb)
• Romantic canal illuminations
• Fresh seafood season
• Average: -6°C to 0°C

🌸

Spring (Mar-May)

• Cherry blossoms (late April)
• Mild weather for walking
• Fewer crowds
• Average: 2°C to 15°C

☀️

Summer (Jun-Aug)

• Perfect weather for canal cruises
• Outdoor activities
• Festivals and events
• Average: 15°C to 25°C

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Autumn (Sep-Nov)

• Beautiful fall foliage
• Comfortable temperatures
• Seafood harvest season
• Average: 5°C to 18°C

Getting Around Otaru

Walking

Most major attractions around the canal and Sakaimachi Street are easily walkable.

Local Buses

Connects Otaru Station to attractions further afield like the Aquarium and Tenguyama.

Rental Bicycle

A great way to explore the city at your own pace, especially along the canal.

Plan Your Otaru Getaway

Immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere and unique craftsmanship of Otaru.

Plan Your Otaru Trip Calculate Budget