Otaru One-Day Tour: Discover the Best Sightseeing Spots
Otaru, a picturesque port city on the coast of Hokkaido, is a destination rich in history, charm, and scenic beauty. Known for its historic canals, beautiful architecture, and delightful shopping streets, Otaru offers a perfect day trip for visitors. This guide will take you through a one-day tour of Otaru’s best attractions, ensuring a mix of historical, cultural, and scenic experiences.
1.Otaru Canal
History: Otaru Canal is an iconic symbol of the city, constructed in the early 20th century to support the bustling port activities. It played a crucial role in the city’s development as a major trade and fishing hub in Hokkaido. The canal, once a vital transport route for goods, has now become a scenic landmark attracting numerous visitors.
Highlights
The canal is lined with beautifully preserved stone warehouses that have been converted into museums, shops, and restaurants. A stroll along the canal offers picturesque views, especially at dusk when the gas lamps are lit, creating a romantic ambiance. The stone bridges and the artistic sculptures along the promenade add to the canal’s charm.
Tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
- Consider taking a canal boat ride for a unique perspective of the area.
- Don’t miss the evening illumination, which enhances the canal’s beauty.
2.Sakaimachi Street
Source:Sakaimachi Street Official Site
Overview: Sakaimachi Street is a historic shopping street that retains the charm of Otaru’s past. This well-preserved area is lined with traditional merchant houses and warehouses, now transformed into shops, cafes, and museums.
Highlights
- Variety of Shops: Sakaimachi Street offers a diverse shopping experience with stores selling glassware, music boxes, and local crafts. The street is particularly famous for its exquisite glass products.
- Food and Snacks: Numerous cafes and restaurants serve local delicacies. Try the Otaru sushi, renowned for its freshness, and other seafood dishes.
- Cultural Spots: Explore the many small museums and galleries that showcase Otaru’s rich cultural heritage.
Tips
- Allocate enough time to explore the street thoroughly. Each shop has unique offerings that are worth discovering.
- Try the local sweets and snacks, such as cream puffs and ice cream, which are popular among visitors.
3.Otaru Music Box Museum
Overview: The Otaru Music Box Museum is one of the largest and most famous music box museums in Japan. Housed in a beautiful Victorian-style building, the museum offers a nostalgic experience with its extensive collection of music boxes.
Highlights
- Extensive Collection: The museum features a vast array of music boxes, from antique pieces to modern creations. The soothing melodies and intricate designs are mesmerizing.
- Hands-On Experience: Visitors can participate in workshops to create their own music boxes, choosing their favorite melodies and decorations.
- Victorian Ambiance: The museum’s architecture and interior design enhance the overall experience, making it a delightful place to visit.
Tips
- Spend at least an hour at the museum to fully enjoy the exhibits and participate in a workshop.
- The museum shop offers a wide range of music boxes for purchase, making perfect souvenirs or gifts.
4.Kitaichi Glass Studio
Overview
Kitaichi Glass Studio is one of the most famous glass studios in Otaru, known for its beautiful and delicate glassware. The studio offers demonstrations and the opportunity to purchase stunning glass products.
Highlights
- Glassblowing Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans create intricate glass pieces using traditional glassblowing techniques.
- Wide Variety of Products: The studio shop features an array of glassware, including decorative items, jewelry, and practical household products.
- Historic Atmosphere: The studio itself is housed in a historic building, adding to the charm of the visit.
Tips
- Visit the studio to watch a live glassblowing demonstration and learn about the intricate process.
- Pick up a unique glass souvenir as a memento of your visit to Otaru.
5.Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
Source：Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Official Site
Overview: The Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway provides panoramic views of Otaru and the surrounding areas. It is a great way to appreciate the city’s natural beauty and get a bird’s-eye view of the region.
Highlights
- Observation Deck: At the top of Mt. Tengu, the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Otaru, the coastline, and the Sea of Japan.
- Tengu Shrine: A small shrine dedicated to the legendary tengu creatures adds a cultural touch to the visit.
- Winter Sports: In winter, Tenguyama is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, offering well-maintained slopes and facilities.
Tips
- Take the ropeway in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over Otaru and the Sea of Japan.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views.
6.Otaru Aquarium
Overview: The Otaru Aquarium, one of the oldest and most popular aquariums in Hokkaido, offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Highlights
- Marine Exhibits: The aquarium features a wide range of marine life, including fish, sea lions, and penguins.
- Animal Shows: Daily shows featuring sea lions and dolphins are a major attraction and highlight the intelligence and agility of these animals.
- Interactive Areas: The touch pool allows visitors to get hands-on with some of the marine creatures.
Tips
- Visit in the late morning or early afternoon to catch the scheduled animal shows.
- Allocate time to explore the outdoor exhibits, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding coastline.
Conclusion
A one-day tour of Otaru offers a rich and diverse experience, blending historical sites with cultural attractions and scenic views. From the iconic Otaru Canal and the charming Sakaimachi Street to the panoramic views from Tenguyama and the interactive exhibits at the Otaru Aquarium, there is something for everyone. Explore these attractions to experience the unique charm and vibrant culture of Otaru, making your day trip truly memorable.
