Otaru

Otaru, a port city in Hokkaido, Japan, is known for its canal area, 19th-century buildings, and local crafts. A short train ride from Sapporo, Otaru invites you to explore its waterfront, taste fresh seafood, and discover unique products like glassware and music boxes. You can stroll along the canal, visit former herring mansions, and take in the view from Mount Tengu.

Exploring Otaru's Canal Area

The restored canal area is at the heart of Otaru. As you walk along the waterfront, you'll see century-old stone warehouses that once stored goods from ships, now converted into shops, restaurants, and museums. Gas lamps line the promenade, creating a pleasant evening atmosphere when their soft glow reflects off the water. You can take a 40-minute canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the historic surroundings.

Discovering Sakaimachi Street

Sakaimachi Street, a well-preserved merchant district, reflects Otaru's past as an active port town. The street is lined with converted warehouses and old office buildings, now housing a variety of shops and museums. You can browse for locally-made glassware, sample freshly-made chocolate at patisseries, or explore museums dedicated to music boxes and Venetian art. The steam clock at the intersection chimes every 15 minutes, adding to the street's character.

Indulging in Otaru's Culinary Delights

As a coastal city, Otaru is known for its fresh seafood. The area near the port has many sushi restaurants serving some of the freshest catches in Hokkaido. Try the local specialty, "Ankake Yakisoba," a regional variation of stir-fried noodles with a thick sauce. For dessert, you can find the colorful "rainbow tower" ice cream, a treat unique to Otaru. If you enjoy beer, you might like visiting the Otaru Beer restaurant near the canal, housed in a converted warehouse with a medieval European theme.

Visiting Herring Mansions

To learn about Otaru's fishing heritage, visit one of the city's herring mansions. These large wooden buildings were once owned by wealthy herring fishermen during the industry's boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion) shows how these successful entrepreneurs lived. As you explore the spacious rooms and observe the traditional architecture, you'll learn about an important chapter of Otaru's history.

Taking in the View from Mount Tengu

For a wide view of Otaru and beyond, you can ascend Mount Tengu. A ropeway takes you to the summit, where you can see Ishikari Bay, the Shakotan Peninsula, and on clear days, even Sapporo in the distance. In winter, the mountain becomes a small ski resort, allowing you to ski with a view of the city and sea. Near the summit, you'll find the Tengu Shrine, where many visitors pray for safe travels.