Easily accessible from Sapporo, the popular tourist destination “Otaru” has thrived for years as a port town. It is famous for its historical streetscapes and delicious seafood.
In this article, we introduce a recommended itinerary for a 2-day, 1-night tour, perfect for first-time visitors to Otaru.
目次
- 1 First Day Itinerary
- 1.1 【10:00 AM】 Starting the Journey at JR Otaru Station
- 1.2 【10:30 AM】 Feeling the History of Otaru at the ‘Former National Railway Temiya Line’
- 1.3 【11:00 AM】 Strolling Around Otaru’s Classic Spot ‘Otaru Canal’ and Asakusa Bridge
- 1.4 【12:00 PM】 Enjoying Lunch at ‘Otaru Masazushi Main Store
- 1.5 【1:30 PM】Exploring Otaru Sakaimachi Main Street with Various Shops
- 2 Kitaichi Venetian Art Museum
- 3 Second Day Itinerary
- 4 Must-Buy Popular Souvenirs in Otaru
- 5 Enjoy the Charm of Otaru in 2 Days and 1 Night!
First Day Itinerary
We will introduce the route for the first day of the 2-day, 1-night trip to Otaru.
【10:00 AM】 Starting the Journey at JR Otaru Station
The journey begins at JR Otaru Station, the gateway to Otaru. From Sapporo Station, it takes about 35 minutes to access via the Rapid Airport train. Using a local train, the journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes.
Additionally, there is a direct Rapid Airport train service from New Chitose Airport, which can take as little as 73 minutes. As both Sapporo and New Chitose Airport are conveniently located for access, it’s possible to enjoy sightseeing in Otaru even on the first or last day of your trip.
When using JR, please note that there are two stations with ‘Otaru’ in their names before you reach Otaru Station: Otaru Chikkō Station and Minami-Otaru Station. The station most frequently used by tourists is ‘Otaru Station’, so please be careful not to confuse them.
【10:30 AM】 Feeling the History of Otaru at the ‘Former National Railway Temiya Line’
Upon arriving at Otaru Station, head down Chuo Street in front of the station towards Otaru Canal. Along the way, you will find a famous spot known as the Former National Railway Temiya Line Trace. During the old National Railways era, the Temiya Line connected Minami-Otaru Station to Temiya Station within the city, and was used for transporting coal and seafood. Now defunct, it has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the country.
Today, a walking path for tourists has been developed along the old railway, allowing visitors to walk on the tracks and take photos. The sides of the tracks are lined with cherry trees and wildflowers, creating a beautiful scene where the tracks and nature blend together.
As it’s free to visit, feel free to stop by and explore.
Former National Railway Temiya Line Trace
Address: 1 Chome-7-14 Iro-nai, Otaru, Hokkaido
【11:00 AM】 Strolling Around Otaru’s Classic Spot ‘Otaru Canal’ and Asakusa Bridge
Continuing from the Former National Railway Temiya Line Trace towards the port and crossing National Route 17, you’ll come upon Otaru Canal, the biggest attraction in Otaru sightseeing. The Otaru Canal was originally constructed for efficient transfer of goods from large ships to smaller barges, known as ‘hashike’. With the changing times and development of the docks, only a part of the canal remains today, now popular as a spot where visitors can enjoy the scenery that retains a sense of history.
Asakusa Bridge, spanning over the Otaru Canal, is an excellent photo spot offering views of the canal and the stone warehouse district. Many of the photographs featured in Otaru guidebooks are taken from this spot.
There is also a tourist information center nearby, where you can get the latest information about Otaru.
Additionally, there is a promenade next to the Otaru Canal. Gas lamps along the promenade light up warmly in the evening, illuminating the canal and creating a nostalgic atmosphere different from the daytime. During winter, an event called “Yuki Akari no Michi” (Path of Snow Lights), featuring ice candles, is also held.
Asakusa Bridge
Address: Otaru, Hokkaido 5
【12:00 PM】 Enjoying Lunch at ‘Otaru Masazushi Main Store
After finishing the morning sightseeing, let’s head for lunch. Otaru, being close to the sea, has many seafood restaurants, and there is even an area known as “Sushi Street,” just 200 meters from the Otaru Canal, lined with sushi restaurants.
Among the numerous famous establishments, one that is popular with both locals and tourists is “Otaru Masazushi Main Store”. With a history of over 80 years, this restaurant not only has a presence in Otaru but also in Tokyo’s Ginza and Shinjuku, and even internationally in Bangkok, Thailand.
The main store in Otaru offers an upscale dining experience, suitable for a casual lunch or for formal occasions such as business meetings or dinners. Reservations for lunchtime are only available at 11 AM or 1 PM. Reservations can be made online, so it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during busy periods like Golden Week or summer vacation.
The menu features a variety of courses and single dish meals, all using fresh seafood from Otaru. A must-try when in Otaru is “Shako” (Mantis Shrimp). It is in season from October to December and is known for its larger size compared to those caught in other regions. Enjoy its firm and juicy texture.
Otaru Masazushi Main Store
Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Hanazono, Otaru, Hokkaido
【1:30 PM】Exploring Otaru Sakaimachi Main Street with Various Shops
fter lunch, take a stroll down Otaru Sakaimachi Main Street. This street, starting from the Meruhen Street intersection, stretches for about 900 meters. It’s a popular spot among tourists, lined with famous stores representing Hokkaido and Otaru, making it an ideal place for souvenir shopping and other purchases. If you still have room in your stomach, enjoying snacks like fruits and sweets as you walk along is also a delightful way to experience the area.
In this article, we will introduce some recommended spots among the many attractions to be found here.
Magical Meruhen Street as a Photo Spot
The Märchen Intersection serves as the starting point of Otaru Sakaimachi Hon-dori. It’s a crossroads featuring stone buildings and monuments, creating a historic atmosphere that has made it a popular photography spot.
At the corner of the intersection, in front of the Otaru Music Box Museum, stands a steam clock created by Raymond Saunders, a Canadian clockmaker who is credited with making the world’s first steam clock. This steam clock shares a sisterly connection with the first-ever steam clock located in Gastown, Vancouver, Canada. Be sure to witness and hear the steam whistle that blows every fifteen minutes to announce the time.
Otaru Music Box Museum Main Building
The Music Box Museum is a specialty store based in Otaru City, dedicated to the creation and sale of music boxes. They operate stores in Otaru, Tokyo, and Yokohama, but the largest in terms of sales floor area is the “Otaru Music Box Museum Main Building.” Within this three-story building, which exudes a retro atmosphere and the warmth of wood, thousands of music boxes are always on sale.
The museum is divided into five floors, offering a variety of music boxes made of wood, ceramics, glass, and more, including kaleidoscope music boxes and Japanese-style music boxes featuring Aizu lacquer and crepe fabric crafts. In addition to ready-made products, there’s also a “DIY Workshop” where visitors can create their own original music boxes. Try your hand at making a unique music box, one-of-a-kind in the world.
Kitaichi Venetian Art Museum
Otaru is known as the city of glass, as it was once a bustling fishing town with many workshops producing glass buoys for fishing. Although the number of studios making glass products has decreased, Kitaichi Glass, an established business, continues to operate. Kitaichi Glass manufactures and sells a variety of glass products, from everyday items like glasses and dishes to larger items like vases and decorative pieces.
The “Kitaichi Venetian Art Museum,” operated by Kitaichi Glass, is a tourist destination featuring a wide array of glass artworks, mainly focusing on Venetian glass. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a large gondola reminiscent of Venice, Italy, offering a taste of international travel.
In addition to viewing the exhibits, the museum’s “Costume Cultural Experience” is also popular. Visitors can dress in costumes made by Italian dressmakers and take photos. Enjoy a memorable photo session dressed in royal or princess-like attire.
LeTAO Main Store
LeTAO, which was established in Otaru in June 1998, has become one of Hokkaido’s leading Western-style confectionery makers. Their signature product, “Double Fromage,” offers the combined flavors of baked and rare cheesecake in one, and has been frequently featured in television and magazines. It’s a product that many people might think of when considering classic souvenirs from Hokkaido.
At the LeTAO main store, not only can you purchase cakes and sweets, but there is also a café space. Even if it’s difficult to take cakes home during your travels, you can enjoy the fresh taste on the spot at the LeTAO main store. With a wide selection of drinks including coffee and tea, it’s also recommended as a perfect spot for a little break during your sightseeing adventures.
【3:30 PM】Quick Hotel Check-in at ‘Hotel Sonia Otaru’
After 3 PM, it’s a good idea to drop off your luggage and head to the hotel. A recommended choice is “Hotel Sonia Otaru,” located at the heart of Otaru, just a 3-minute walk from Asakusabashi and facing the Otaru Canal.
The hotel, with its European-style exterior and classically designed, elegant interior, offers a tranquil atmosphere that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Of its 149 rooms, about 70% face the Otaru Canal, allowing you to continue savoring the sights of Otaru even from your room.
The hotel also features a top-floor public bath with a natural hot spring. The men’s bath offers a panoramic view of the Otaru Canal, while the women’s bath includes an open-air bath. After your bath, relax in the lounge, furnished with luxury chairs made by craftsmen from Asahikawa, Hokkaido, known for its furniture.
Hotel Sonia Otaru
Address: 1-4-20 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido
【5:00 PM】Viewing the Dusk at Otaru Canal from ‘Otaru Demachi Alley’
After a brief rest at the hotel, take a stroll through Otaru at dusk. Most shops in Otaru city, other than tourist spots and restaurants, close around 5 to 6 PM. After this time, the number of shops you can visit decreases significantly, so be mindful when planning your sightseeing.
If you’re out in the evening, “Otaru Denuki Koji” is recommended for its views of the Otaru Canal from a higher vantage point. Denuki Koji is a great spot for dining, with various restaurants offering seafood bowls and Genghis Khan, but another attraction is the central “Hinomiyagura” (fire lookout tower).
As you enter Denuki Koji, you’ll find a narrow staircase leading to the fire lookout tower. It’s just wide enough for one person, but once you reach the top, you’ll find an observation space with a sweeping view of the Otaru Canal. The elevated position offers an exceptional view, and the canal at sunset offers a romantic and different perspective from what you see during the day.
Otaru Denuki Koji
Address: 1-1 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido
【6:00 PM】An Early Dinner at ‘Wakadori Jidai Naruto Main Store’
For an early dinner, head to a popular restaurant in Otaru, “Wakadori Jidai Naruto Main Store.”
The popular menu item here is “Half Fried Young Chicken.” The chicken is fried to a crispy exterior and juicy interior, and has been a signature dish since the establishment’s opening, attracting people from other regions to come and taste it. It’s so popular that it often sells out quickly when featured at department store food fairs.
Besides the Half Fried Young Chicken, Wakadori Jidai Naruto Main Store also offers a variety of dishes, including Hokkaido’s famous Zangi (fried chicken) and fried potato mochi. With both single dishes and set meals available, the restaurant can be enjoyed as both a pub and a diner, which is a recommended point.
Wakadori Jidai Naruto Main Store
Address: 3-16-13 Inaho, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Second Day Itinerary
Now, let’s introduce the route for the second day of a two-day trip to Otaru.
【7:30 AM】Breakfast at the Famous ‘Otaru Triangle Market’
On the second day, leave the hotel a bit early and head to “Sankaku Market” located near JR Otaru Station.
Sankaku Market is a morning market dealing in fresh seafood caught in Otaru. There are several morning markets in Otaru, but Sankaku Market, with its wide range of stores, is recommended for tourists. Inside the market, 16 shops including fishmongers and eateries operate. The fishmongers offer popular items like crab, salmon, and salmon roe. They also ship to other regions, making it a great place to choose souvenirs.
For breakfast, enjoy a meal at one of the dining places within the market. Many shops offer seafood bowls using fresh fish caught that day. You can find menus and recommended items displayed in front of each shop, so take your time to find your favorite one.
The market opens at 6 AM and the eateries at 7 AM. The earlier you visit, the more products are available, allowing you to fully experience the market’s charm.
Otaru Sankaku Market
Address: 3-10-16 Inaho, Otaru City, Hokkaido
【9:00 AM】Visiting Cute Sea Animals at ‘Otaru Aquarium’
After breakfast, head to “Otaru Aquarium,” a popular destination for families, located a bit away from the city center, where you can meet a variety of marine creatures.
Otaru Aquarium is built in a natural setting, and its unique feature, compared to other aquariums, is the “Marine Mammal Park” in the outdoor area. In this section, separated from the sea of Otaru only by fences, real seawater flows in, and seals and sea lions are kept in a condition close to the wild. The Marine Mammal Park also hosts shows featuring otters and walruses. There’s a large jump platform on the spacious grounds, allowing visitors to witness the impressive sight of these animals leaping as if diving for prey from a cliff.
In the indoor area, the aquarium displays various marine creatures, including the rare Finless Porpoise and the Japanese largest fish, the Itou. In the touch pool, which replicates Otaru’s sea in winter, you can interact with creatures like octopuses that inhabit the winter sea.
To access Otaru Aquarium, you can take a bus from JR Otaru Station, which takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Since buses run only once or twice per hour, it’s advisable to check the timetable in advance on the official website. The fare is 240 yen for adults and 120 yen for children, one way.
Otaru Aquarium
Address: 3-303 Shukutsu, Otaru City, Hokkaido
【2:00 PM】Exploring Otaru City in a Rickshaw
Once you return to Otaru city from the aquarium, experience the “rickshaw” tour, which lets you visit the famous spots of Otaru all at once. Many rickshaws are stationed around Asakusabashi, and you can easily hop on one by just asking.
There are four rickshaw courses: one segment, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and 120 minutes. If you have 60 minutes or more, you can view all the major attractions of Otaru. Although you can tour Otaru on foot, exploring with a rickshaw puller guarantees new discoveries. The rickshaw pullers, well-versed in Otaru’s history, culture, and attractions, provide an insightful guide to the city. This is one of the pleasures of taking a rickshaw ride.
【3:30 PM】Shopping for Otaru Souvenirs at ‘Otaru City Tourist Product Plaza’
To wrap up your Otaru sightseeing, head to the Otaru City Tourist and Local Products Plaza, marked by its distinctive stone buildings, to buy souvenirs. Commonly known as “Canal Plaza,” this facility sells Otaru’s famous confections and local products. With a wide range of goods available, it’s also a great place to pick up any souvenirs you may have forgotten.
The plaza is equipped with toilets and resting areas, making it a convenient spot to pass the time while waiting for public transportation.
Otaru City Tourist and Local Products Plaza
Address: 2-1-20 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Must-Buy Popular Souvenirs in Otaru
In addition to the two-day itinerary, I’ll introduce popular souvenirs that you must buy when visiting Otaru. We’ll also cover exclusive gourmet items that you can only enjoy in Otaru.
Fish Cake from Kamaei
Kamaei, established in Otaru in 1905, is a renowned store selling kamaboko (fish cakes) and has continued its business for over 100 years. It’s not only popular in Otaru city but also well-known throughout Hokkaido, with stores in Sapporo city and New Chitose Airport.
At their “Factory Direct Sales Store” in Sakaimachi, Otaru, there is a course for tourists to watch the production line where products are made. Visitors can observe the process of popular products being crafted by artisans. The tour is free of charge. Additionally, the factory has a cafe space where you can buy and eat fried kamaboko and frozen kamaboko. At the cafe, you can enjoy freshly made kamaboko along with original menu items.
While Kamaei offers various products, one of the most popular is the “Pan Roll,” featured in the photo in this article. This product was created with the concept of enjoying kamaboko as a snack. It’s an original product, wrapping fish paste in bread dough. Made without preservatives, focusing on texture and flavor, it’s not available for regional shipping or pre-packaged sales. As it’s a local exclusive item, be sure to try it when visiting Otaru.
Kamaei Factory Direct Sales Store
Address: 3-7 Sakaimachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Otaru Wine
Otaru Wine is produced by “Hokkaido Wine Co., Ltd.,” headquartered in Otaru. They procure grapes from farmers across Hokkaido and manufacture and sell various types of wine. Their history dates back to January 1974, maintaining European traditional methods since then, and using exclusively domestically grown grapes.
Their flagship product is “Otaru Tokusen Niagara.” Niagara grapes have thin skins, high sugar content, and release an intense fragrance the moment they are tasted. Turning them into wine allows the full enjoyment of their sweetness and aroma. With an alcohol content of 8.5%, it’s lower than typical wines, making it accessible even for those who don’t usually drink much alcohol.
Moreover, Otaru Wine has won numerous prestigious awards, so it’s sure to please wine-loving friends and acquaintances as a gift. It can be purchased at shops and supermarkets within Otaru city.
Pancakes from Kuwata-ya Main Store
A sweet treat that combines bread and manju with a unique naming sense is “Panjuu.” Each piece is about 4 cm tall and 3 cm wide. Panjuu is a confectionery that was created during a time when bread was still expensive, as a more affordable option, reflecting Otaru’s history as an international trading port. It continues to be beloved by the citizens of Otaru and is even listed in the Kojien dictionary, a renowned Japanese dictionary.
Panjuu comes in flavors like red bean paste, chunky red bean paste, and cream, available all year round, as well as seasonal limited-edition varieties. These limited-edition items are made with seasonal fruits and ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the tastes of different seasons. Past limited editions have included “Chunky Apple” and “Chunky White Peach.”
At the Otaru main store, freshly baked items are always available, making it recommended for takeout and eating on the go. It’s a delight that they can be eaten without dirtying your hands. If taking them home as souvenirs, reheating them in the microwave before popping them in a toaster oven can recreate the freshly baked taste. Do give it a try.
Kuwataya Otaru Main Store
Address: 1-1-12 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido, 1F
Enjoy the Charm of Otaru in 2 Days and 1 Night!
We’ve introduced recommended tourist attractions, eateries, and popular souvenirs for a fulfilling two-day trip to Otaru. Otaru, flourishing as an international trading port since ancient times, is a city brimming with charms unlike any other. Easily accessible from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, it’s a must-visit destination when in Hokkaido, offering delicious gourmet food and scenic views unique to a port town.
Apart from the spots mentioned, Otaru has many more tourist attractions. For more information on these and other travel tips, check out AVA Travel!
AVAトラベルの記事は、日本旅行に詳しい様々な地域のライターによって執筆されています。
The articles on AVA Travel are written by writers from various regions who are knowledgeable about travel in Japan.
