The canal-side walking path that is practically synonymous with Otaru sightseeing. The warehouses built in the Taisho era still retain their original character. Daytime is lovely, but the hour at dusk when the gas lamps come on is especially recommended. Viewing the townscape from the water on a canal cruise is another popular way to enjoy it. If you visit in winter, don’t miss the magical lights of the “Otaru Snow Light Path.”

📍 About a 10-minute walk from JR Otaru Station

Because the town once produced glass fishing floats in the Meiji and Taisho eras, Otaru is also known as a town of glass crafts. Along “Sakaimachi Street,” lined with colorful glassware shops and music box halls, there are also plenty of hands-on workshops where you can make your own original piece. It’s a perfect area for souvenir hunting, too.

📍 About an 8-minute walk from Otaru Canal

A lively spot for eating and browsing, lined with stalls of fresh seafood. Many travelers come for sushi made to order on the spot or seasonal seafood rice bowls, making it the place to fully enjoy Otaru’s bounty from the sea.

📍 About a 1-minute walk from JR Otaru Station

Otaru retains many historic buildings constructed between the Meiji era and the early Showa era. Among them, the former Bank of Japan Otaru Branch and the former Otaru Warehouses are highlights that recall the prosperity of those days. Simply walking around town naturally becomes a tour of retro architecture.

📍 About a 5-minute walk from Otaru Canal

From the summit, you can take in sweeping views of Otaru’s city and the surrounding area. The hiking trails and observation deck are also popular, making it a spot to enjoy in every season. In winter, the nearby ski resorts come alive too, drawing many visitors from Japan and abroad for skiing and snowboarding.

📍 About 10 minutes by car from central Otaru; take the ropeway to the summit

For those who want to enjoy sea views as well as a stroll around town, there’s also a boat cruise & fishing activity that tours the “Blue Cave” in the waters off Otaru. The sight of the sea surface glowing cobalt blue in the sunlight shows a side of Otaru quite different from a town walk. It takes about 80 minutes, is open to ages 4 and up, and rain gear can be rented for free, so it’s worth adding to your itinerary if you have time to spare.

View the Blue Cave Boat Cruise & Fishing

You will be taken to the official booking page on Tabirai Hokkaido Activities

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