• Otaru Canal - The Otaru Canal is a quintessential landmark among Hokkaido’s renowned tourist attractions. Once serving as Hokkaido’s distribution hub, it had a population that even exceeded Sapporo’s. During that era, the canal facilitated the unloading of ships via barges and extended the reach of goods distribution. Although it became redundant with the establishment of docks and was slated for landfill, it now serves as a serene spot for both locals and visitors, featuring promenades and gas lamps along the riverbanks.
• Otaru Art Base - The early 20th-century historical buildings of Otaru City have been repurposed for tourism. The Otaru Art Base, situated across Rinkosen Street from the Otaru Canal, is one such venue. This facility comprises four historic buildings that once housed 20 of Hokkaido’s largest banks, forming the economic heart known as “North Wall Street.”

The former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, depicted in the picture, now hosts the Nitori Museum of Art, showcasing Japanese and international paintings, wood carvings, and more. The basement features the Art Nouveau Art Déco Glass Gallery.

• Otaru Sakaimachi Street - For those traveling for leisure, Otaru’s Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street offers both gourmet delights and shopping opportunities. Located inland from Rinkosen Street and parallel to the Otaru Canal, this one-way street spans about 900 meters from North Wall Street to the Marchen Crossroads, where the Bank of Japan Otaru Branch is situated. The street is lined with old merchant shops and Western-style buildings, making it another popular tourist destination near the Otaru Canal.
• Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura - While Otaru is famed for its historic Western architecture and glass crafts, it also preserves Japan’s long-standing traditions. The Tanaka Sake Brewery, established in 1899, is one such place. It produces a variety of alcoholic beverages, including plum wine, sweet sake, and the locally cherished Takaragawa sake. Thanks to Otaru’s cool climate, sake can be brewed year-round, making the Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkougura a worthwhile visit any time of the year.
• Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Ski Museum - Otaru’s historical beauty can be enjoyed through various scenic walks. Overlooking this picturesque seaside city and the Sea of Japan is Mt. Tengu, accessible by a 15-minute car ride from the Otaru IC. The Mt. Tengu Ropeway transports visitors from the mountain’s base to its summit, covering 735 meters in about 4 minutes. From the top, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Shakotan Peninsula.

Ropeway prices *roundtrip
Adults: 1600 JPY
Children: 800 JPY

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Otaru
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private Vehicle
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Embark on this high-value journey with a licensed and multilingual tour guide, an excellent and time-saving method to discover Otaru!

Otaru, a renowned historical city and a frequently visited tourist destination in Hokkaido, may be daunting for first-time visitors due to potential unfamiliarity with sightseeing spots and places to dine. In this guide, we will highlight some of the finest tourist destinations, eateries, and confectionery stores tailored for individuals visiting Otaru for the first time.

Please share your preferences with us, and we will customize a six-hour itinerary that best suits your desires!

Note1: To design your personalized itinerary, choose your preferred spots from a list provided in the tour details.
Note2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification, issued by the Japanese government, necessitates a comprehensive and deep understanding of Japanese culture and history.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.