Joanna James
There's much to see when one ventures down to Otaru, which is a popular day trip option for those based in Sapporo. Home to some of the top cultural hotspots in the area, Otaru is teeming with activity hubs for all. Here are 10 attractions everyone must visit during a day trip to the area.
Also known as Nichigin-dori, this historic precinct of the city was formerly the financial heart of Otaru. Once dubbed the "Wall Street of the North" the area is lined with iconic buildings that used to house businesses and financial institutions back in the day. The charm of Nichigin-dori is undoubtedly the charming atmosphere rich in history created by the number of heritage sites in this quarter.
The Otaru Canal just may be the most popular tourist attraction in the area as the footpath which runs along the water is ideal for an afternoon or morning stroll. Surrounded by warehouses, the buildings on the fringes of the canal are now some of Otaru's best cafes, bars and live music joints.
Head to the Triangle Market or Otaru Sankaku Ichiba to sample the best seafood dishes in town. The historic market which was set up in 1957 is now the source from which all of the areas restaurants purchase fresh seafood and the eateries located inside the market provide the most scrumptious dishes of all.
Otaru is home to not one but six Music Box Museums and each venue showcases thousands of exquisite music boxes of varying sizes and shapes to the delight of souvenir hunters. Purchase a truly unique keepsake of a trip to Otaru by selecting a music box and touring the workshops in which these treasures are manufactured.
Those based at Grand Park Otaru or any similar Otaru hotel near Jr Station should not forget to sign up for a tour of the OcciGabi Winery. The wine cellar is one of the area's best wine producers and offers guests the chance to sample its tipple and also dig into a fine meal at its very own restaurant.
Glasswork is a thriving industry in Otaru so a tour of the Kitaichi Glass factory is a great chance to learn about the trade and pick up a few tasteful gift items such as oil lamps and decorative wares from this renowned glassware manufacturer.
Steam-powered clocks are a rarity around the world but Otaru visitors can witness the majesty of one of the world's best-preserved steam clocks opposite the Xiaogu Music Box Museum. The 18 feet tall clock tower features a 5.5m wide clock.
Beer fans should not miss the chance to explore this well-known brewery where sake has been made since it was first opened in 1899.
The Otaru Art Base is not one location but a series of museums dedicated to celebrating local art. This includes the Stained Glass Museum, the Nitori Art Museum and several art galleries.
This is one of the many hot springs in Otaru where one can take a dip and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
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