Things To Do
in Otaru
Otaru is a charming port city located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its picturesque canal lined with historic warehouses. The city has a rich history as a major trading and fishing port, which is evident in its well-preserved architecture and nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru is also famous for its glasswork and music box industries, with many shops selling beautiful handcrafted items.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the city's unique shops, sampling fresh seafood, and taking a relaxing boat ride along the canal.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along Otaru's historic canals, taking in the charming architecture and beautiful scenery. Don't forget to snap some photos of the iconic stone warehouses.
Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum where you can see a variety of beautiful music boxes. You can even create your own to take home as a unique souvenir.
End your day with a scenic dinner cruise on the Otaru Bay. Enjoy the stunning views of the sunset over the water while savoring local seafood dishes.
Visit the Otaru Art Museum to explore local exhibitions and learn about the region's artistic heritage. The museum is housed in a former warehouse, enhancing its charm.
Take a guided tour of the famous Otaru Glassworks and see artisans create beautiful glass pieces. You might find something special to bring home.
Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant where you can enjoy meticulously prepared seasonal dishes. Experience Japanese hospitality in a serene environment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with picturesque canal views and historic buildings.
- Rich cultural heritage including traditional crafts and museums.
- Delicious seafood and famous for its glassworks and music boxes.
- Accessible public transportation, making it easy to explore.
- Charming atmosphere, especially during festivals and seasonal events.
- Can be crowded with tourists, especially during peak seasons.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may require entry fees.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers might pose challenges.
- Seasonal weather can be harsh, particularly in winter.
Best Activities in Otaru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the historic Otaru Canal, offering picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Hike or take a cable car up Tenguyama Mountain for stunning panoramic views of Otaru and the Ishikari Bay.
Experience the magical atmosphere of the winter festival with illuminations and snow statues throughout the city.
Visit the Otaru Aquarium to see a variety of marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits and shows.
Relax on the sandy shores of Asari Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Otaru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Otaru
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its romantic and picturesque views, especially during the evening when the gas lamps are lit
Offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea, particularly stunning during sunset
Provides a bird's-eye view of Otaru and the Ishikari Bay, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts
Food in Otaru
Otaru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Enjoy a variety of fresh, top-quality sushi at Sakaimachi Street's sushi restaurants or visit the Nijo Market for an unforgettable sushi experience.
Must-Try!
Indulge in a delicious kaisen-don at Otaru Sankaku Market, featuring a colorful assortment of raw seafood over a bowl of rice.
Try fresh uni at Otaru's fish markets, where you can savor the sweet and creamy delicacy at its finest.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable dairy-based desserts like soft-serve ice cream and creamy puddings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Otaru better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Nijo Market to sample an assortment of fresh seafood, sushi, and local snacks, offering a true taste of Otaru's culinary delights.
Visit Otaru Sankaku Market for a vibrant display of fresh seafood and the opportunity to enjoy scrumptious kaisen-don and other local specialties.
Take a stroll down Sakaimachi Street to discover charming street food stalls serving up tempting treats like grilled scallops, seafood skewers, and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's house, traditional ryokans, and some restaurants in Otaru.
Instead of shaking hands, a slight bow is considered a respectful greeting in Otaru and throughout Japan.
Japanese culture values personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid physical contact unless invited.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Otaru with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Otaru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Otaru. In fact, it may be seen as rude or unusual to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Otaru, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the primary method of payment. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payment options like Suica and Pasmo are also becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Otaru due to the cherry blossoms blooming, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere throughout the city. The weather is mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Otaru is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is a great time for enjoying outdoor festivals and events, as well as exploring the scenic coastline and beaches.
Autumn is another popular time to visit Otaru, as the city is surrounded by beautiful fall foliage. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for hiking and taking in the stunning autumn colors.
Winter in Otaru is a magical time, with the city covered in snow and ice creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and experiencing the enchanting Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.
Otaru at Night
Hiking in Otaru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain located just outside of Otaru, offering scenic views and well-maintained hiking trails. The summit is accessible through a mixture of trails suitable for various skill levels.
Although a bit farther from Otaru, the Niseko Mountain Range features stunning hiking experiences. It is well-known for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking vistas.
This trail follows the Shiribetsu River and offers a serene hiking experience with opportunities for wildlife observation and enjoying the natural beauty of the riverbanks.
While not a mountainous hike, walking along the historic Otaru Canal offers a pleasant stroll with picturesque views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
A scenic hiking route that offers beautiful views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. The trails vary in difficulty and provide a peaceful escape in nature.
Aiports
How to reach Otaru by plane.
The largest international airport serving Hokkaido, located approximately 75 kilometers south of Otaru.
An international airport located in Hakodate, roughly 170 kilometers southwest of Otaru.
An airport that serves Asahikawa and the surrounding area, located about 140 kilometers northwest of Otaru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, consisting primarily of ethnic Japanese people who make up the majority of the population in Otaru.
An indigenous ethnic group in Japan, historically from Hokkaido and surrounding regions, including Otaru.
A minority demographic primarily consisting of ethnic Koreans, including those with historical ties to Japan and newer immigrants.
A growing group of residents in Otaru, often including students and immigrants from mainland China and other Chinese-speaking areas.
Includes expatriates from various countries around the world who work or study in Otaru, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Otaru has a rich ice hockey tradition, with local teams and a strong youth development program. The sport is popular among both players and spectators.
Given its proximity to ski resorts, skiing is a popular recreational activity in Otaru, attracting tourists during the winter months.
Baseball enjoys a significant following in Otaru, with local leagues and schools participating in regional championships.
Soccer is also gaining popularity in Otaru, with various youth clubs and school teams competing in local tournaments.
Otaru's coastal location makes fishing a popular sport, both recreationally and competitively, especially with the abundance of marine life in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Otaru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood plays a prominent role in Otaru's cuisine, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, particularly in the form of delicious dairy-based desserts and fresh produce.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy seafood rice bowls without soy sauce, fresh sashimi, and dairy-based treats, though it's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly with the establishments.