Guide to Otaru for Foreign Tourists
Overview
Otaru is a charming coastal city in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and fresh seafood. It’s a popular destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty, history, and culinary delights.
Key Attractions
Otaru Canal
• The most iconic sight in Otaru, the canal is lined with old warehouses and stone buildings. It’s particularly beautiful during the evening when gas lamps illuminate the area, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Sakaimachi Street
• A historic shopping street featuring beautifully preserved merchant houses. It’s filled with glassware shops, souvenir stores, cafes, and restaurants.
Otaru Music Box Museum
• This museum showcases a vast collection of music boxes and allows visitors to create their own. It’s a delightful place to explore and find unique gifts.
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
• Located a short train ride from Otaru, this distillery offers tours and tastings. Learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy samples of their renowned spirits.
Otaru Aquarium
A family-friendly attraction featuring marine life from Hokkaido’s waters, including sea lions, seals, and penguins. The aquarium also has a touch pool and dolphin shows.
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
• Take the ropeway to the top of Mount Tengu for panoramic views of Otaru and Ishikari Bay. In winter, the mountain offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Culinary Delights
Fresh Seafood
• Otaru is famous for its fresh seafood. Visit the Sankaku Market for a variety of seafood dishes, including sashimi, sushi, and crab.
Sushi
• Known as one of the best places for sushi in Hokkaido, Otaru has numerous sushi restaurants, particularly along Sushi Street (Sushi Yokocho).
Otaru Beer
• Try local craft beer at Otaru Beer, a brewery that offers German-style beers and hearty pub fare in a rustic setting.
LeTAO
• A popular confectionery shop known for its double fromage cheesecake. The shop offers a range of delicious sweets and a cafe with stunning views.
Photography Spots
Otaru Canal
• Capture the canal’s historic charm during the day and the magical ambiance created by the gas lamps at night.
Sakaimachi Street
• Photograph the well-preserved buildings and bustling street life, especially during winter when the street is adorned with festive decorations.
Otaru Music Box Museum
• The exterior of the museum and the surrounding area offer quaint and charming photo opportunities.
Mount Tengu
• Take panoramic shots from the top of the mountain, capturing the scenic views of Otaru and the surrounding bay.
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
• The journey up the mountain provides stunning views and excellent photo opportunities of the city below.
Recommended Itinerary:
1. Morning:
• Start your day with a stroll along the Otaru Canal and visit the Otaru Music Box Museum.
2. Midday:
• Head to Sankaku Market for a fresh seafood lunch and explore Sakaimachi Street’s shops and cafes.
3. Afternoon:
• Visit the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery for a tour and tasting session.
4. Evening:
• Return to Otaru for dinner at a sushi restaurant on Sushi Street and take a romantic evening walk along the canal.
5. Next Day:
• Take the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway for morning views and perhaps enjoy some winter sports if visiting during the snowy season.
Otaru offers a unique blend of historical charm, culinary excellence, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for foreign tourists in Hokkaido.
