Fun Things to Do in Otaru | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Otaru Travel Guide
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Welcome to Otaru, a charming coastal city located on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. Known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant local culture, Otaru offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As you wander through the streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, you'll be transported back in time to the city's prosperous past as a major trading port. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the famous Otaru Canal, where you can take a leisurely boat ride or simply stroll along the promenade, admiring the elegant stone warehouses that now house shops, cafes, and restaurants. Additionally, Otaru is renowned for its glassware, and you can witness the artistry firsthand by visiting the numerous glass studios and shops scattered throughout the city. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie seeking culinary delights, Otaru has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and rich heritage of Otaru.
Otaru Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Otaru videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Otaru in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![HUGE King Crab & Seafood Bowls in Otaru! || [Hokkaido, Japan] Best Places to Eat and Explore!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aikbJvQYs3c/hqdefault.jpg)
![Otaru 2021 Walking Tour - Hokkaido Japan [4K/Binaural]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bpE94DqS-v0/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Otaru
Otaru is a charming city located on the island of Hokkaido. There are numerous things to do in Otaru that showcase its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences.
One of the main attractions in Otaru is the Otaru Canal. This picturesque waterway is lined with beautifully preserved old warehouses that have been converted into shops, cafes, and restaurants. Taking a leisurely stroll along the canal is a must-do activity, especially in the evening when the gas lamps are lit, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Another highlight of Otaru is the Sakaimachi Street. This bustling street is filled with shops selling local handicrafts, glassware, and delicious seafood. Visitors can explore the various shops, sample fresh seafood delicacies, and even try their hand at glassblowing at one of the many glass studios.
For those interested in history, the Otaru Museum is a must-visit attraction. Housed in a former bank building, the museum showcases the city's history as a major port and trading hub. Visitors can learn about Otaru's role in the herring fishing industry and explore exhibits that display artifacts and photographs from the past.
Nature lovers will be delighted by the natural beauty surrounding Otaru. Mount Tengu, located just outside the city, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the mountains. Additionally, Otaru is known for its beautiful gardens, such as the Otaru City Park and the Temiya Park, where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Food enthusiasts will find plenty to indulge in while in Otaru. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its sushi and sashimi. Visitors can visit the local seafood markets, such as the Otaru Sankaku Market, to sample a wide variety of seafood delicacies. Otaru is also known for its delicious sweets, such as the famous Otaru LeTAO cheesecake and the delicate Otaru glass-shaped cookies.
In conclusion, Otaru offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Tours And Activities In Otaru
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Best Time To Visit Otaru
The best time to visit Otaru is during the winter months of December to February. This is when the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with magical snow-covered streets and festive decorations. Otaru is famous for its annual Snow Light Path Festival, which takes place in February and features beautifully illuminated snow sculptures and lanterns. Additionally, winter is the perfect time to experience outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Niseko ski resort. However, it's important to note that temperatures can drop below freezing during this time, so be sure to pack warm clothing.
Flight Calendar For Otaru
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Best Areas To Stay In Otaru
Otaru is a charming city located in the Hokkaido region. It offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas, each with its own unique features and attractions. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Otaru:
1. Otaru Canal: This area is known for its picturesque canal lined with historic buildings. Staying near the Otaru Canal allows visitors to enjoy romantic walks along the waterfront and explore the city's famous glassworks and music box shops. The area also offers a range of hotels and guesthouses with stunning views of the canal.
2. Sakaimachi Street: Located in the heart of Otaru, Sakaimachi Street is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is a great choice for those who want to be in the center of the action and have easy access to Otaru's main attractions, such as the Otaru Music Box Museum and the Otaru City Museum. Accommodation options in this area include traditional ryokans and modern hotels.
3. Mount Tengu: For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, staying near Mount Tengu is a fantastic choice. This area offers breathtaking views of the city and the Sea of Japan, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing. There are several hotels and resorts nestled in the mountainside, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere for a relaxing stay.
4. Asarigawa Onsen: If you're looking for a more tranquil and rejuvenating experience, consider staying in the Asarigawa Onsen area. This hot spring resort town is located just outside of Otaru and offers a range of traditional Japanese ryokans and hotels with hot spring baths. It is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the healing waters while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
Overall, Otaru offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various areas, catering to different preferences and interests. Whether you prefer a romantic canal-side stay, a bustling city center experience, a nature retreat, or a relaxing hot spring getaway, Otaru has something for everyone.
Hotels Map Of Otaru
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Transportation To Otaru
There are several transportation options to get to Otaru:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Otaru is New Chitose Airport (CTS), which is located in Sapporo. From the airport, you can take a direct train or bus to Otaru.
2. By Train: Otaru is well-connected by train. You can take a train from Sapporo, which is the major transportation hub in Hokkaido. The journey from Sapporo to Otaru takes around 30 minutes.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available from Sapporo to Otaru. The journey by bus takes approximately 1 hour.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the Hokkaido Expressway from Sapporo to Otaru. The journey by car takes around 40 minutes.
5. By Ferry: Another unique option is to take a ferry from various ports in Hokkaido, such as Tomakomai or Hakodate, to Otaru. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to reach Otaru, especially during the summer months.
Overall, there are multiple transportation options available to reach Otaru, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and travel plans.
Nearby Destination From Otaru
1. Sapporo: The capital city of Hokkaido, known for its vibrant nightlife and annual snow festival.
2. Yoichi: Famous for its distilleries and the production of Nikka Whisky.
3. Shakotan: A coastal town with stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving and seafood lovers.
4. Niseko: A popular ski resort town renowned for its powder snow and world-class slopes.
5. Furano: Known for its picturesque lavender fields and ski resorts, offering beautiful scenery all year round.
6. Asahikawa: Hokkaido's second-largest city, home to Asahiyama Zoo and a gateway to the Daisetsuzan National Park.
7. Hakodate: A historic port city with a stunning night view from Mount Hakodate and delicious seafood markets.
8. Obihiro: Famous for its agricultural products, especially its high-quality beef and dairy products.
9. Tomakomai: A city known for its industrial port and proximity to Lake Utonai, a popular bird-watching spot.
10. Muroran: A coastal city with a scenic coastline and a famous observation deck offering panoramic views of the area.