Stroll through Otaru in Hokkaido and immerse yourself in the charming port town atmosphere

Otaru Canal can be considered the most iconic attraction in Hokkaido. This once-abandoned and largely filled-in canal has been ingeniously revitalized into the most romantic spot in the northern city. Visitors to Hokkaido absolutely won’t miss this colorful and romantic riverside, which becomes even more enchanting when the gas lamps are lit at night and a thin mist hangs in the air.

Otaru is not far from Sapporo. By taking a train from Sapporo Station along the coastal railway line, you can reach Otaru in just over 30 minutes, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. Otaru is described as a “port town” and a “town of slopes.” Its mountain-backed geography makes it a naturally excellent harbor, while the intricate stone stairways and slopes nestled between the mountains and sea add unique charm. Historic buildings such as the former Otaru Branch of NYK Line and the former Otaru Branch of the Bank of Japan, with their rustic and stately appearances, evoke a sense of nostalgia and stand as some of Otaru’s most representative historical structures.

Otaru Canal is a must-visit attraction for every traveler to Otaru. Along its banks stand numerous bronze gas lamps that automatically light up at dusk, casting a romantic shimmer on the canal’s surface. In the late Taisho era, this waterway was dug to facilitate the movement of cargo ships. Small wooden boats that transported goods from the larger vessels would weave through the clusters of warehouses along the canal, creating a bustling scene. However, as times changed, the area fell into decline. Thanks to preservation efforts, the abandoned warehouses were transformed into trendy restaurants and shops. Coupled with the addition of exquisitely designed vintage-style gas lamps lining the canal, the area has regained its splendor.

Nearby the canal, there are also specialty shops such as the Otaru Canal Museum, the Otaru Music Box Museum, the Kitaichi Glass, and the Kitaichi Venice Glass, each selling handicrafts related to Otaru’s trading history. From stunning Western glassware to exquisitely crafted music boxes, visitors can shop and explore to their heart’s content. Glass craftsmanship is one of Otaru’s specialties. Aside from being a port town with a romantic canal, another highlight often talked about is Otaru’s glass art. Near Otaru Canal and along the streets of X:cho-dori, numerous glass art galleries are clustered, captivating tourists with their colorful and transparent glass artworks.

In addition to purchasing beautiful glass items, visitors interested in trying their hand at glassmaking can try their luck at glassblowing. About a month after your trip, you can receive your beautifully finished creation, bringing back fond memories of your time in Otaru.

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