5 Exotic Sightseeing Spots in Otaru That You Can't-Miss – Spice up your adventure!

One of the main reasons people flock to visit Japan from across the world is due to the allure it presents as the perfect example of harmony between ancient culture and modernity. It would be hard to debate that Japan is lacking in terms of many major amenities and infrastructural needs. However, to understand why it can perform at such a high-level stem, for a large part, due to its history of ingenuity.
The Otaru canal itself was built in the early part of the 1900s and has been considered for a vast majority of its existence and somewhat emblematic of the city of Otaru. The canal was built to serve as a route for supply and raw material distribution and during its operational years, people would place gas lights to ensure that the crewman of the incoming ship can find their way to the respective warehouses.

The Otaru canal initially existed mainly due to the huge amounts of port traffic that was moving through the city, making the region an economic huge in the country. The Otaru region was so prosperous that at one point in time it was referred to as the Wall Street of the North.
Built between the 1920s and the 1980s, the Bank of Japan in Otaru was the representation of the wealth that was being generated within the city. Its' formidable structure and scale exude grandeur and elegance while today it is predominantly used as a museum that tourist visit to witness exhibits showing the city at its peak.

If you are in the area, take some time to visit the Hall Number 2 Antique Museum. It is here that you can browse through the museum's collection of rare Karakuri dolls, which are essentially mechanical puppets. This collection is likely to be one of a kind and should not be missed out on! You can also find a variety of automata that is available for your viewing pleasure.

The city is not without its natural wonders. Mount Tengu also referred to as Tengu-yama, stands in the southwest of the city and comes in at a height of 532 metres tall. During the winter period, many visitors head to the mountain to enjoy their time skiing and taking in the stunning view of the surrounding area.

If you have spent a few days in the city and are looking for some activities to unwind in the city then a sake tasting tour might be just the thing you are looking for. Located within a stone warehouse, the local variety of rice wine awaits. With a history dating to the 1800s, you can enjoy close to 10 different types of sage for free! What more can you ask for?
However, do make sure that you have some kind of Otaru accommodation nearby, for example, the Grand Park Otaru so you can make your way back without much fuss.