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.

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おはよう" - Good morning
  • "こんばんは" - Good evening
  • "さようなら" - Goodbye

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Otaru's History and Culture

morning:Start your day by visiting the Otaru City Museum to deep dive into the local history and culture. Then, head to the Otaru Music Box Museum, a charming place to explore unique music boxes and souvenirs while indulging in delightful treats at the onsite cafe. Don't miss out on trying the renowned Kitaichi Glass sake, a must-visit historic sake brewery founded in 1900.

afternoon:After a light lunch at the quaint Sakaimachi Street, stroll through the charming alleyways lined with glassware and art shops. Be sure to try the mouthwatering seafood at the local sushi restaurants. In the afternoon, take a relaxing canal cruise to soak in the tranquil beauty of Otaru.

evening:Cap off the day with an enchanting walk along the Otaru Canal, illuminated by elegant gas lamps. For a captivating night-out experience, head to the Otaru Music Box Museum's concert hall for a beautiful classical music performance.🎶

day 2

Nature and Adventure in Otaru

morning:Embark on an adventurous journey to Mt. Tengu, offering panoramic views of Otaru and the Ishikari Bay. After taking in the stunning vistas, recharge with a delightful breakfast at the mountaintop cafe. Then, head to the Otaru Sun Pillar to witness the captivating natural phenomenon.

afternoon:For a thrilling afternoon, visit the Asahi Observation Hill for a memorable paragliding experience. Afterward, savor a traditional Japanese meal at a nearby restaurant, immersing yourself in the local flavors and ambiance.

evening:As evening falls, head to Otaru Beach for a serene sunset stroll along the picturesque coastline. Afterward, embrace the thrill of the night at the Otaru Beer Garden, where you can enjoy locally brewed beers and socialize with fellow travelers.🍻

day 3

Cultural Delights and Culinary Experiences

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, where you can explore diverse artworks and exhibitions. Follow it with a serene walk through the Otaru Temiya Park and take in the tranquil beauty of nature while savoring a delightful breakfast at a nearby cafe.

afternoon:Venture to the renowned Otaru Aquarium for an enriching marine-life experience. Afterward, indulge in the delectable seafood delicacies at the nearby restaurants, offering fresh and authentic flavors that are bound to tantalize your taste buds.

evening:As the day winds down, stroll through the charming streets of Otaru and explore the local handicraft stores. For a memorable night-out, head to Otaru Kihinkan, a historic building hosting enchanting night performances and cultural experiences.✨

day 4

Sake Tasting and Artisanal Crafts

morning:Embark on a sake-themed morning by visiting the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, where you can learn about the art of whisky-making and indulge in delightful tastings. Then, explore the quaint Yoichi Morning Market to savor fresh local produce and delightful street food options.

afternoon:Visit the Otaru Kitaichi Glass for an immersive experience in glass artistry, where you can witness skilled artisans crafting exquisite glassware. Afterward, savor a delectable lunch at a nearby local restaurant, offering authentic Hokkaido dishes.

evening:Conclude your day with a visit to the Otaru Beer Restaurant for a laid-back evening of craft beer tastings and good company. Embrace the lively atmosphere at the restaurant while savoring the diverse flavors of local brews.🍺

Otaru Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Sushi

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!

Kaisen-don (Seafood Rice Bowl)

Indulge in a delicious kaisen-don at Otaru Sankaku Market, featuring a colorful assortment of raw seafood over a bowl of rice.

Uni (Sea Urchin)

Try fresh uni at Otaru's fish markets, where you can savor the sweet and creamy delicacy at its finest.

Hokkaido Milk Products

Satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable dairy-based desserts like soft-serve ice cream and creamy puddings.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Nijo Market

Explore Nijo Market to sample an assortment of fresh seafood, sushi, and local snacks, offering a true taste of Otaru's culinary delights.

Otaru Sankaku Market

Visit Otaru Sankaku Market for a vibrant display of fresh seafood and the opportunity to enjoy scrumptious kaisen-don and other local specialties.

Street Food Stalls

Take a stroll down Sakaimachi Street to discover charming street food stalls serving up tempting treats like grilled scallops, seafood skewers, and sweet pastries.

Pet sitters in Otaru

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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