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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Otaru sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to the charming seaside town of Otaru, where the streets are lined with picturesque canals and the air is filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked pastries.
Prepare to indulge your senses as you embark on a journey through the hidden treasures and delightful experiences that await you in this enchanting destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Otaru:
1. Otaru Canal
A historic canal in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan, that played a significant role in the city’s development.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the picturesque canal and admire the beautifully preserved century-old warehouses which have been converted into shops, cafes, museums, and restaurants.
Enjoy a scenic canal cruise or a romantic gondola ride. There are also several events and festivals held throughout the year, including the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival in winter.
Don’t miss: The symbolic gas lamps that line the canal, illuminating it at night and creating a magical atmosphere.
The famous Otaru Music Box Museum, where you can explore a vast collection of music boxes from around the world and even make your own.
Insider travel tips: Visit the canal in the evening when the gas lamps are lit up for a romantic and unforgettable experience. Try the local seafood dishes and sushi at the restaurants along the canal.
If you’re interested in history, visit the Otaru Canal Museum to learn more about the canal’s significance.
2. Sakaimachidori
Sakaimachidori is a historic street located in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll down this picturesque street and admire the beautiful architecture, which dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The street is lined with various shops, restaurants, and cafes, selling everything from glassware to local snacks.
Don’t miss: The Otaru City Museum, which is located on Sakaimachidori street, is worth a visit for its collection of historical artifacts and exhibits.
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning or later at night to avoid the crowds and take in the quaint charm of the street.
Don’t forget to sample some of the local street food, such as grilled scallops and Hokkaido milk soft serve ice cream.
Some shops offer glassblowing experiences where you can make your own unique glassware.
3. Otaru Music Box Museum
A museum dedicated to music boxes, located in the picturesque town of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the museum’s collection of over 25,000 music boxes from all over the world, with designs ranging from classic to quirky.
Visitors can also enjoy live performances by trained musicians playing various pieces on the music boxes.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to design and create your own music box, which can be assembled on-site with the help of the museum staff.
The gift shop is also a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum to fully appreciate the collection and performances.
4. Temiya Railway Museum
A transportation museum featuring the history of railways in Temiya and Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Visitors can see old steam locomotives, examine displays of old railway tickets and timetable cards, and view models of trains and stations.
Interactive exhibits bring the technical aspects of trains to life for visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss: The outdoor display of historic trains and signage, including a restored steam train engine used to transport coal from the nearby mines.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to take a ride on the Steam Locomotive Mini-Train, which runs on weekends.
5. Kitakaro
A famous bakery and sweets shop located in Otaru, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Enjoy freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries that use quality ingredients, such as Hokkaido butter and milk.
Their most popular product is the “shiroi koibito” (white lovers) cookie, a sandwich cookie filled with white chocolate that is a well-known souvenir from Hokkaido.
You can also have a meal at their café, which serves sandwiches, soup, and pasta, and offers a great view of the Otaru Canal.
Don’t miss: The shiroi koibito cookie and the cream puff, which is sold only at the Otaru store.
Insider travel tips: The bakery can get crowded, so it’s best to visit in the morning or during weekdays to avoid long lines. It’s also possible to reserve cakes and pastries online and pick them up at the store.
6. Otaru Tenguyama
Otaru Tenguyama is a scenic mountain located in Otaru, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Sea of Japan.
During the winter, the mountain becomes a popular ski resort with various runs for all skill levels.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the observation deck at the top of the mountain, where you can admire the panoramic views of Otaru and the surrounding landscape.
Also, be sure to visit the Tengu House, a quaint museum dedicated to the mythical creatures known as Tengu that are said to inhabit the mountain.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the winter months to take advantage of the ski slopes.
7. Sankaku Fish Market
A bustling fish market in Otaru, Japan, that offers a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies.
What to see or do: Explore the market and feast your eyes on an array of fresh seafood, including salmon, squid, and crab. Taste delicious local dishes like sushi, sashimi, and grilled seafood on-site.
Don’t miss: The live seafood section, where you can see various marine creatures alive before they are prepared and cooked. Also, try the uni (sea urchin) rice bowl, which is a must-try dish at the market.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowd as it can get pretty busy during peak hours. Remember to bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
Be adventurous and try the local delicacies; they are fresh, authentic and delicious.
8. Asarigawa Onsen
Asarigawa Onsen is a hot spring town located in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: You can relax and soak in various hot spring baths in the town, some of which offer remarkable views of Mount Tengu.
Additionally, there are a few museums and art galleries to visit, including the Otaru Music Box Museum and the Otaru Museum of Art.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll along the Otaru Canal, which is lined with historical warehouses that have been converted into shops, cafes, and restaurants.
You should also try some of the local delicacies like sushi, fresh seafood, and sake.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Asarigawa Onsen during the winter months (December to February) when the town is blanketed in snow and the hot springs are most enjoyable.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try ice fishing at Lake Shikotsu nearby.
Lastly, if you’re planning on staying in town, consider booking a room with a private open-air bath for a truly authentic onsen experience.
9. Kitaichi Glass Studio
Kitaichi Glass Studio is a glass-making workshop and gallery located in the charming town of Otaru, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Kitaichi Glass Studio can watch skilled glass artisans create beautiful pieces of glassware using traditional techniques. The gallery also showcases a stunning range of finished glass products available for purchase.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the incredible array of intricately designed glassware, including delicate wine glasses, colorful vases, and ornate lampshades.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in taking home a unique souvenir, Kitaichi Glass Studio offers glass-making classes where you can create your own one-of-a-kind piece of artwork.
Don’t forget to visit in the evening when the gallery is beautifully illuminated for a magical experience.
10. Otaru City Aquarium
Otaru City Aquarium is a popular tourist destination located in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: This attraction offers visitors the chance to see and learn about various marine life in Hokkaido waters.
You can watch seals and sea lions perform tricks, admire the penguins, and even touch some of the sea creatures, including starfish and sea urchins.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the aquarium is the tuna feeding show, where you can see the massive fish being fed in a special tank.
Additionally, the nighttime illuminations are a must-see if you happen to be visiting during the winter months.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and be sure to bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted at the entrance. If you’re traveling with kids, consider purchasing a combo ticket that includes a visit to the nearby Otaru Museum.
Finally, after exploring the aquarium, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up some souvenirs or snacks.
11. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
A winter festival held in Otaru, Japan, where the entire city is illuminated with thousands of snow lanterns and light displays.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the Otaru Canal and enjoy the beautiful reflections of the illuminated snow sculptures in the water. Visit the Otaru City Museum to learn about the history of the festival.
Warm up with some hot sake and local food at the food stalls scattered throughout the city.
Don’t miss: The candlelit pathway leading up to the Suitengu Shrine. The view from the top of the hill overlooking the entirety of the festival is breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking involved. Visit on a weekday if possible to avoid crowds.
Don’t forget to try the local delicacies such as marinated herring and Kaisendon, a rice bowl topped with fresh seafood.
12. Otaru Orgel Doh
Otaru Orgel Doh is a music box museum in Otaru city, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a large collection of music boxes from all over the world, including antique music boxes and contemporary ones.
There are also workshops where visitors can make their own music boxes.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the giant music box clock, which plays a different melody every hour.
Insider travel tips: – Time your visit to coincide with the hourly music box performances.
13. Otaru City Museum of Art
The Otaru City Museum of Art is a modern museum located in Otaru, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy viewing a range of art exhibitions showcasing both local and international artists. The museum also features a collection of antique ceramics.
Don’t miss: The “Otaru Artist in Residence” program that invites international artists to stay in Otaru for creative inspiration and share their art with the local community.
The museum also has a beautiful garden area that visitors can explore.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and admission fees vary by exhibition. It’s recommended to check the museum’s website for current exhibitions before planning a visit.
The closest train station is Temiya Station which is a 10-minute walk away from the museum.
14. Otaru Brewing
A craft brewery located in the city of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a brewery tour and learn about the brewing process, enjoy a tasting of their various beers, and dine at their restaurant serving locally sourced meals.
Don’t miss: Their flagship beer, “Otaru Lager”, which has won multiple awards at beer competitions, and their seasonal brews that feature local Hokkaido ingredients.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in winter to try their limited edition “Winter Ale” brewed with local Hokkaido chestnuts.
15. Ironai-doh Red Brick Warehouses
Ironai-doh Red Brick Warehouses is a historic complex of brick warehouses situated along the Otaru Canal in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the canal and explore the various shops, restaurants, and bars housed in the warehouses. The complex also hosts regular events and performances.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try some of the local seafood specialties in the restaurants and bars. The warehouses are also especially picturesque at night when they are lit up with colorful lights.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check out the unique souvenirs and crafts available at the locally-owned shops.
The warehouses can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit early in the day or during the off-season for a quieter experience.