Things To Do
in Otaru
Otaru is a picturesque port city located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan, known for its charming canal lined with Victorian-style warehouses and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It boasts a rich history as a bustling trade center during the Meiji and Taisho periods, which is reflected in its well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its exquisite glassworks, music boxes, and delicious seafood, making it a delightful destination for both tourists and locals.
Otaru is particularly magical during winter when the canals and streets are illuminated with beautiful light displays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll along the Otaru Canal, admire the historic warehouses, and enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.
Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum and explore the quaint shops selling handmade crafts, particularly glassworks and music boxes.
Dine at a seafood restaurant along the canal, followed by a relaxing walk to see the canal illuminated at night.
Start with a visit to the Otaru Aquarium to see marine life, including seals and penguins.
Head to Sakaimachi Street for lunch, sampling local sushi and sake, then visit the Otaru City General Museum.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for a vibrant atmosphere and traditional dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi Meal | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-6 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $5-8 |
| 🍜Ramen | $8-12 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and historical architecture.
- Rich culinary scene with fresh seafood.
- Charming atmosphere, especially during winter.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may close during off-peak seasons.
- Public transportation options can be limited.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "おいしい" - Delicious
- "はい" - Yes
Places to Visit in Otaru
Visit one of these nice places.
The picturesque canal, especially charming at dusk when the gas lamps light up, is a must-visit for stunning photographs.
This historic street is filled with traditional architecture and shops, providing beautiful backdrops for street photography.
Offering panoramic views of Otaru and the Sea of Japan, this spot is perfect for capturing the city's landscape.
Food in Otaru
Otaru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Otaru is famous for its fresh sushi, particularly the nigiri style made with fish caught daily from the nearby waters.
Must-Try!
Grilled squid is a local favorite, often served as sashimi or grilled over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
Crafted locally, Otaru Beer is a must-try for beer enthusiasts, available in various styles including pale ale and stout.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located along the canal, this market offers fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat street food options.
A lively street filled with food stalls offering local snacks like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a respectful distance and avoid loud conversations in public places, as personal space is highly valued.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, or certain restaurants, so be prepared.
Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting or thanking someone to express respect.
Safety
Tipping in Otaru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service staff do not expect gratuities; the bill is typically settled with no additional charges.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in major establishments; ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Otaru brings cherry blossoms, particularly in late April, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer is mild and pleasant, ideal for enjoying outdoor festivals and beach activities at nearby beaches.
Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in the mountains surrounding Otaru, creating picturesque hiking and photography opportunities.
Winter transforms Otaru into a snowy wonderland, attracting visitors for its winter illuminations and nearby ski resorts.
Otaru at Night
Hiking in Otaru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular trail offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline, suitable for various skill levels.
This trail provides a serene hiking experience through forests and offers beautiful vistas, particularly stunning in autumn.
Airports
How to reach Otaru by plane.
Located about 75 km from Otaru, New Chitose Airport is the nearest major airport, providing domestic and international flights. It's well-connected to Otaru via train and bus services, making it easy for travelers to reach the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The local population is primarily Japanese, with a rich cultural heritage that influences the community's lifestyle and traditions.
Otaru attracts a diverse range of tourists, including domestic travelers from other parts of Japan and international visitors drawn by its charm and history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
With nearby ski resorts like Kiroro, skiing is a popular winter sport, attracting both locals and tourists for its excellent slopes.
Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, and Otaru has local teams that engage the community, with games attracting enthusiastic fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Otaru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood dominates the local cuisine, there are vegetarian options available in many restaurants, particularly in the form of vegetable sushi and tempura.
Some restaurants offer gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check with staff, as wheat is commonly used in soy sauce.