7 Best Things to Do in Otaru – Immerse in the Natural Beauty, Culture, and History of Japan

Located at the top of Mount Tengu, the Tenguyama Ropeway offers you a bird’s-eye view that’s hard to beat. Whether you are a hiker or a nature lover, climbing to the top of Mount Tengu is as thrilling as it is rewarding. With an array of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, the mount offers avid hikers a memorable experience. Once you get to the top, there will be an observatory that brings you breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding bay – an amazing photo opportunity. If you are a skiing enthusiast, visit in winter and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of skiing opportunities.

A token of Otaru’s past, the Otaru Canal is a reminder of the city’s rich history. Located just minutes away from Grand Park Otaru, the canal is ideal for a boat tour. As the night falls, the gas lamps here light up the pathway, giving it a romantic ambience. So if you’d rather walk, the pathway offers a perfect setup for a leisurely stroll. The array of vintage warehouses around the canal now house cafes, shops, and museums bringing you a perfect blend of the old and the new. As this is one of the key highlights of Otaru, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of accommodation options that provide easy access to this attraction – looking for hotels in Hokkaido that fit your budget? Look around and you’ll find many.

If you admire talent and craftsmanship, you’ll find Kitaichi Glass to your liking. As you explore the glass workshop, you’ll be captivated by the talent of local craftsmen, breathing life into molten glass. From elegant glassware that you can use at home to souvenirs, you’ll find a piece of glass to take home. And if you want to try your hand at creating exquisite glasswork, you can do that too.

Take a walk down Sakaimachi Street and you’ll be lulled into relaxation by the melodies of music boxes. This bustling city is flanked by cafes, boutiques, and the famous Music Box Museum. At the museum, you’ll be amazed by the collection of music boxes, and you can even customise your own music box to take home. While you are here, be sure to pop into one of the cafes and try some local sweets – your taste buds will thank you!

A window into the aquatic world, Otaru Aquarium offers a splash of fun for both old and young. Catch the Penguin Parade to witness cute penguins waddle by – a sight that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. And make sure you have time for the seal show to witness these beautiful creatures get up to all kinds of stunts.

To enjoy a cup of traditional sake, visit Takana Sake Brewery. The brewery offers guided tours taking you on a journey where you can enjoy different flavours of sake as well as witness the art of brewing sake. This is a taste experience that’s sure to leave an impression on anyone. Make sure you buy a bottle or two of delightful sake as a reminder of your visit.

Offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Otaru, Sumiyoshi Shrine stands as one of the most important religious sites in the city. Tranquil gardens, lush surroundings, and Shinto architecture are all part of the experience. This is a place where you can reflect, take part in traditional rituals, and enjoy a moment of perfect tranquillity. This is one of the places where you can get a glimpse of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.