Discover Otaru’s historic charm with a self-guided day trip. Explore canals, museums, and savor local flavors. Perfect for independent travelers.
Discover Otaru’s historic charm with a self-guided day trip. Explore canals, museums, and savor local flavors. Perfect for independent travelers.
- Otaru Canal - The Otaru Canal stands as one of Hokkaido’s most renowned landmarks. Originally vital to Otaru’s thriving trade industry, it was constructed to transport goods from ships via barge before modern docks took over. Today, the canal is beautifully maintained as a romantic walkway. Flanked by historic warehouses, stone paths, and charming…
- Otaru Canal - The Otaru Canal stands as one of Hokkaido’s most renowned landmarks. Originally vital to Otaru’s thriving trade industry, it was constructed to transport goods from ships via barge before modern docks took over. Today, the canal is beautifully maintained as a romantic walkway. Flanked by historic warehouses, stone paths, and charming gas lamps that illuminate the night, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy a leisurely walk.
- Otaru Art Base, Stained Glass Museum - The early 20th-century architecture lends Otaru its timeless allure, with many of the city’s former bank buildings now serving as cultural sites. The Otaru Art Base, situated across from the canal, revives this history. Once the center of Hokkaido’s financial district known as “North Wall Street,” the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank building now hosts the Nitori Museum of Art. Inside, visitors can admire a remarkable collection of Japanese and Western paintings, wood carvings, and the stunning Art Nouveau and Art Déco Glass Gallery.
- Otaru Sakaimachi Street - For shopping and culinary delights, visit Sakaimachi Dori, a vibrant 900-meter street lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses and Western-style buildings. Running parallel to the Otaru Canal, this delightful street offers a variety of specialty shops, local crafts, and sweet treats. It’s the ideal place to find souvenirs, taste Hokkaido delicacies, and immerse in the nostalgic ambiance of old Otaru.
- Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura - Otaru is also home to one of Hokkaido’s most renowned sake producers, the Tanaka Sake Brewery, established in 1899. Here, visitors can explore the art of sake-making in Otaru’s cool climate, which permits year-round brewing. The brewery offers a diverse range of beverages including plum wine, sweet sake, and the famous local sake, Takaragawa. A visit provides a genuine taste of Otaru’s cultural and culinary legacy.
- Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Ski Museum - Just 15 minutes from the city center, Mt. Tengu offers stunning views over Otaru and the Sea of Japan. The Mt. Tengu Ropeway transports visitors from the base to the summit—covering 735 meters in just four minutes. At the top, panoramic views extend as far as the Shakotan Peninsula, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

- Private transportation
- English Speaking Driver
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Surcharges on fuel
- Private transportation
- English Speaking Driver
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Surcharges on fuel
- Meals
- Tour Guide
- Other Personal Expense
- Ropeway fares: Adults ¥1,600 roundtrip / Children ¥800 roundtrip
- Meals
- Tour Guide
- Other Personal Expense
- Ropeway fares: Adults ¥1,600 roundtrip / Children ¥800 roundtrip
Discover the timeless allure of Otaru, a cherished port city in Hokkaido celebrated for its enchanting canal vistas, well-preserved architecture, and delectable confections. Once a bustling center of trade and culture, Otaru has evolved into a popular retreat where guests can relish a harmonious blend of history, scenery, and local cuisine.
This…
Discover the timeless allure of Otaru, a cherished port city in Hokkaido celebrated for its enchanting canal vistas, well-preserved architecture, and delectable confections. Once a bustling center of trade and culture, Otaru has evolved into a popular retreat where guests can relish a harmonious blend of history, scenery, and local cuisine.
This self-guided adventure invites you to explore the city at your own pace, free from the constraints of a guided tour. Recommendations will be provided for Otaru’s top attractions, including the iconic Otaru Canal, the nostalgic Music Box Museum, elegant glassware boutiques, and lively local markets. Additionally, there will be suggestions for must-visit restaurants and dessert shops, allowing you to indulge in specialties such as fresh Hokkaido seafood and Otaru’s renowned cream puffs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.