Joanna James
A city of wonders like no other, Otaru awaits to charm all those who enter its domain. Located close to Sapporo, the city offers a spectrum of dazzling views that feature its coast and harbour, gleaming, particularly at night.
During the winter, the city of Otaru gleams with snow-capped roads and buildings, making it into a winter wonderland. This is precisely the best time to venture out towards the Tenguyama Observation Deck.
Mount Tenguyama is, without doubt, one of the best places in the area for a breath-taking view of Otaru during the night-time. As you gain in elevation, the city's disarray fades away, and you get to witness the glow of lights from a distance.
In order to witness this sight, you will need to head towards the ropeways, but if you are staying at an Otaru hotel near Jr Station, such as the Grand Park Otaru, be sure to consult on the schedules for this access way as the times tend to vary based on the season.
The views from this 548m tall goliath are quite the treat for the enthusiastic viewpoint seeker.
While the viewpoint is closed during the months from December to April due to heavy snowfall, the other months offer a stunning view of the city below. From the observation deck, you can witness the Otaru and Ishikari Bay under the pale moonlight of the night sky.
On a more casual note, there is a long-held superstition that travelling to the peak of Mount Kenashiyama to see the Mashike Mountains will help with hair growth, do with that information what you wish.
Built in the 1920s, this stunning canal is a centrepiece for a night-time stroll at your own pace or with a loved one. With a plethora of cultural significance, the canal is well maintained all year around. However, with the streetlights ablaze in the night-time, there is no more romantic location to keep you warm through.
If you search for the best view of the city with the sea as a backdrop, the Asahi Observation Deck is where you need to be.
With the plenty of coastal beauty on display as well as a city fully visible from the heights of the observation deck, the experience is completed by the nearby trails that make for a brilliant night-time stroll.
If you find yourself in Otaru, head towards the Temiya Park during the autumn season. With a plethora of events taking place during the late hours of the night, the park turns into a spectacular affair of people, food, trinkets and other delights.
There is no more idyllic sight than sakura blossoms shimmering under the moonlight. If you want to visit for the Sakura exclusively, please note that the season starts in May and you will not be disappointed!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
