Recently, I took a group of my fellow content creators up to Hokkaido to visit the luxury resort Muwa Niseko. Located in Hokkaido’s skiing capital, this amazing facility is one that I’ve been supporting as a consultant this year regarding their influencer marketing for inbound tourism. As part of the package, we had Muwa Niseko’s concierge charter a car for us after shooting the resort so that we could drop by some of the nearby attractions. After a quick huddle with the other creators, we all decided to visit the coastal city of Otaru.
Historically, Otaru got its start as a major port on the Sea of Japan side of Hokkaido. From the early days of Hokkaido’s colonization in the latter years of the 1800s, Otaru served as a key center for trade thanks to its convenient coastal location. Even today, many old warehouses and former office buildings of shipping companies remain in Otaru, giving the city center a vibe reminiscent of a time long since passed. With fresh seafood to boot, Otaru makes for the perfect addition to any Hokkaido outing, and readers are highly encouraged to check it out while in the area.
While the cat is entirely out of the bag in the Asian markets, far fewer Western tourists know about Otaru — at least in comparison to its more famous cousin, the city of Sapporo. Though only half an hour away from Hokkaido’s largest city by train, Otaru offers a totally different vibe. What’s more, its location makes it perfectly positioned as an easy add-on for anyone en route to or from Niseko (like me and my squad) or the Shakotan Peninsula further west. Thanks to these sound logistics, Otaru easily fits into almost any itinerary.
How to Get There
As noted, Otaru is only just a mere stone’s throw away from Sapporo Station to the northwest, meaning you can reach the seaside city in just around 30 minutes. This makes it incredibly easy to visit, even if you only plan on going for half a day. When planning your trip, I suggest taking a look at a service like Jorudan. While I always recommend using something like this, it’s especially helpful here since there’s actually more than one way to get to Otaru. In our case, we actually hopped on a highway bus from near Susukino, but this option might not work for everyone.
Once you’re in Otaru, you’ll find it’s pretty easy to get around on foot, all things considered. While there are a few minor slopes to tackle, travelers of all fitness levels should be able to explore what Otaru has to offer with little difficulty. It’s also worth noting that there’s an express train connecting Otaru directly to Shin-Chitose Airport, making it a great final stop before flying out of Hokkaido. For our trip, this is exactly what we did. The car Muwa Niseko chartered for us dropped us off in Otaru, and after spending the day exploring the city, we took an evening train straight to the airport.
Otaru Station & the City Center
Being an important port city in Hokkaido since its inception, many of Otaru’s main attractions can be found down by the waterfront — but we’ll get to that in a second. Before that, let me mention a few points of interest in the city center near Otaru Station. First and foremost is Sankaku Market, a down-to-earth marketplace where vendors sell fruit, vegetables, seafood, and various prepared dishes. Though not as impressive as Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market or Osaka’s Kuromon Ichiba, it’s still worth stopping by for a quick visit and maybe a bite to eat.
For photographers looking to capture a great shot of Otaru from above, there’s also the Asahi Observation Deck. Located about a 30-minute walk from Otaru Station, this platform offers a romantic view of the entire city and Ishikari Bay. The view is particularly magical in the early evening, adding an extra layer of charm to Otaru, as seen in the image above. While not a must-visit by any stretch of the imagination, the Asahi Observation Deck does provide some epic views for those who make the trek.
Explore the Otaru Canal Area
No trip to Otaru is complete without a visit to the iconic Otaru Canal. Once the heart of the city’s bustling port in the first half of the 20th century, the canal was used to transfer goods from large vessels to warehouses via smaller boats. However, as modern dock facilities allowed for direct unloading of larger ships, the canal gradually became obsolete. Thankfully, in the 1980s, a citizens’ movement succeeded in preserving and restoring a portion of the canal, transforming it into a picturesque area lined with warehouses that now house museums, shops, and restaurants.
The restored section of the Otaru Canal is a delight to explore at any time of day, either on foot or during a boat ride. During daylight hours, you’ll find artists displaying their work along the canal, adding a creative touch to the scenic stroll. As evening falls, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting as the canal is illuminated by old-fashioned gas street lamps, creating a romantic setting for visitors. The canal is also the centerpiece of Otaru’s Snow Light Path Festival, a magical event held every year during the wintertime that draws crowds from far and wide in Japan.
Just a short walk from the canal, Sakaimachi Street offers a glimpse into Otaru’s merchant history. This beautifully preserved street dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, which you may recall was a time when Otaru was thriving as a port city during Hokkaido’s development. Many of the grand, Western-style buildings constructed by trading companies during this era have been repurposed into charming cafes, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also find glass workshops along Sakaimachi Street, where they can try their hand at crafting the famous Otaru Glass — a unique and memorable experience to round out your visit.
The Otaru Museum Roster
While I could have included all of these in the above description of the Otaru Canal area, I think that the city’s impressive collection of historic museums deserves its own standalone section. Below, I’ve listed out some of the spots that I think you should consider visiting while in Otaru, along with a Google Map link so you can figure out the best order to visit these museums based on your plans. Whether you’re into history, art, or hands-on experiences, Otaru’s museums offer something for every type of traveler out there…
- Otaru Museum
The Otaru Museum is actually two museums in one, offering visitors a chance to dive into the city’s rich history and its role in the development of Hokkaido. The Canal Building is conveniently located beside Otaru Canal and housed in a former warehouse. This museum provides a broad overview of Otaru’s history, from the times of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people to the city’s preservation movement in the 1970s. The exhibits are detailed and engaging, with models and displays accompanied by an English pamphlet to help international visitors make the most of their visit. - Otaru Music Box Museum
Located at the southern end of Sakaimachi Street, the Otaru Music Box Museum is a must-visit for anyone who loves a touch of whimsical nostalgia. This attraction isn’t just a museum — it’s a collection of multiple buildings, with the centerpiece being a large shop filled with music boxes of every variety imaginable. One building even houses a small exhibit detailing the history of music boxes. Don’t miss the steam clock outside, a charming gift from the city of Vancouver that adds to the old world vibe! - Otaru Glass Workshops
Otaru’s glassmaking legacy dates back to the mid-20th century, when the decline of the herring fishing industry pushed Japanese craftsmen to pivot from crafting buoys to creating elegant glassware. Today, Otaru is renowned for its stunning glass works, which you can admire — and even create yourself — at the city’s many workshops. Visitors can try their hand at making cups, bowls, or vases for around 2,000 to 3,000 yen, making for an interactive and memorable experience. - Museum of Venetian Art
For a taste of European elegance in the heart of Hokkaido, the Museum of Venetian Art is the place to be. Operated by local glassmaker Kitaichi, this five-story museum is dedicated to the arts of Venice and features dazzling displays of Venetian glassware, traditional clothing, and ornate furniture. A full-sized gondola adds to the ambiance, making this museum a unique fusion of Venetian charm and Otaru craftsmanship. - Bank of Japan Museum
Housed in a historic 1912 building, the Bank of Japan Museum offers a fascinating look into the world of Japanese currency and Otaru’s financial past. Visitors can explore creative exhibits, including a chance to step inside an old vault and feel the incredible weight of a hundred million yen. Best of all, admission is free, making it an excellent option for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Even if you’re not a museum person, I still suggest you at least make time to admire the historical buildings of Otaru and maybe pop into one of the many glass shops that you’ll find in the city’s business center.
Other Nearby Attractions
If you’re looking for a little bit more to do in Otaru, you’re in luck. In addition to the places I’ve mentioned so far, there are several other noteworthy attractions in and around the city that are worth considering. Whether you’re craving spectacular views, unique experiences, or a deeper dive into the region’s history, Otaru and its surroundings have plenty to offer. Below are a few additional spots to round out your itinerary:
- Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
Just a short train ride from Otaru lies the Nikka Whisky Distillery in Yoichi, a must-visit for whisky enthusiasts. Established in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, the distillery offers a glimpse into the history and process of whisky-making in Japan. Visitors can explore the historic grounds, learn about the art of distillation, and even sample a selection of their renowned whiskies. - Tenguyama Ropeway
For stunning panoramic views of Otaru and its surrounding coastline, hop on the Tenguyama Ropeway. This scenic ride takes you to the top of Mount Tengu, where you’ll find observation decks, a small tengu-themed museum, and even a ski resort during winter. The vistas from the summit, particularly at sunset, are nothing short of magical and well worth the detour. - Otaru Aquarium
Located along the coast, the Otaru Aquarium offers a fun and family-friendly outing. The facility features a variety of marine life, including species native to Hokkaido’s waters. Live shows with seals and penguins add to the charm, while the nearby Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion) complements the experience with a peek into Otaru’s historic fishing industry. - Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck
For breathtaking coastal views, the Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed. Situated near the Otaru Aquarium, this lookout point offers dramatic vistas of the rugged cliffs and the expansive Sea of Japan. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot that showcases Otaru’s natural beauty. - Marchen Crossroads & LeTAO
At the northern end of Sakaimachi Street, Marchen Crossroads is a charming area where European-inspired architecture meets the nostalgia of Otaru. It’s also home to LeTAO, the famous Hokkaido confectionery brand known for its decadent double fromage cheesecake. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure to drop by for a taste of their signature treats.
Moving on, as mentioned in the opening sections of this article, Otaru is perfectly positioned as a city you can stop by when en route to or from Niseko and the Shakotan Peninsula. While the former needs no real introduction, the latter is a hidden gem known for its jaw-dropping coastal beauty. The Shakotan Peninsula boasts dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and iconic landmarks such as Cape Kamui, where sweeping views of the Sea of Japan will leave you in awe. It’s also a paradise for fresh seafood lovers, with sea urchin being a local specialty that’s worth every bite. If you’re looking to experience some of Hokkaido’s most pristine and untouched landscapes, the Shakotan Peninsula is an absolute must-visit.
On the other hand, Niseko’s global reputation as a skiing paradise speaks for itself. Known for its world-class powder snow, Niseko attracts winter sports enthusiasts from across the globe. But the area is more than just a winter destination — its year-round offerings include lush hiking trails, mountain biking, and relaxing onsen experiences. For travelers heading to or from Niseko, a half-day trip to Otaru provides a refreshing contrast with its rich history and slower pace. Pairing Niseko’s luxury and adrenaline with Otaru’s timeless charm makes for a truly well-rounded Hokkaido adventure.
Until next time travelers…
