Joanna James
Otaru, in the northern part of Hokkaido, Japan, isn't just a pretty port city – it's like a living history book of the northern islands. This article explores some of the must-visit places in Otaru.
The Otaru Canal is just dripping with history. Back in the day, this place served as Hokkaido's main distribution hub. Ships used to offload their goods here onto barges, which then made their way through the canal. Fast forward a bit, and when the docks came along, the canal wasn't needed for its original purpose anymore. But now, it's transformed into a chill spot where both locals and tourists hang out, with beautiful promenades and gas lamps along the riverbanks. Taking a stroll down the cobblestone path by the canal is like stepping into a romantic scene, especially with the retro warehouses adding to the vibe. And at night, the whole place lights up with 63 gas lamps, making it look absolutely magical.
Otaru City has an amazing way of blending its history with tourism. A bunch of its early 20th-century buildings are now hotspots for visitors. Take the Otaru Art Base, for example. It's right across from the Otaru Canal on Rinkosen Street and is a hub for art and history lovers. Plus, it’s only 8 minutes from Grand Park Otaru. This place used to be where 20 of Hokkaido's biggest banks, known as the North Wall Street, were located, making it the heart of Hokkaido's economy back in the day. Today, it’s where you find some of the best hotels in Hokkaido. Nitori Museum of Art, one of the buildings here, is filled with Japanese and foreign paintings and wood carvings. And if you head down to the basement, you'll find the Art Nouveau Art Deco Glass Gallery.
If you're travelling for fun, you're probably looking to indulge in some gourmet food and do a bit of shopping. Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street is ideal for both. This one-way street, about 900 metres long, runs parallel to the Otaru Canal. It starts from North Wall Street and goes all the way to the Marchen Crossroads near the Bank of Japan Otaru Branch. As you stroll down the street, you'll be surrounded by old merchant shops and charming Western-style buildings. Being so close to the Otaru Canal, it's a major hit with tourists. What's really cool about this street are the glass craft shops, like Kitaichi Glass and Taisho Glass, which are pretty iconic in Otaru.
If you find yourself in Otaru, you must check out this financial museum that's set up in an old bank from way back in 1912. The building itself is a piece of art. It's like stepping back in time and getting a feel for the history of the place. Right as you walk in, there's a history zone behind the lobby where you can see all sorts. They have original banknotes from World War II and maps and architectural plans of the building. Keep exploring, and you'll find the Business Operations Zone, a special exhibition hall, and even the old bank vault. There’s more – a gift shop and a video room where you can pick up some souvenirs and learn about Japan's financial history.
The Otaru Light Path Snow Festival is a stunning 10-day event that's an absolute must-see. During the winter months, the city transforms as snow lanterns light up different parts of Otaru. The whole place blanketed in snow, gets a magical glow from the lights, turning it into a winter wonderland. The festival draws in more than 50,000 visitors each year. Imagine strolling along the snow-lit paths and by the Otaru canals during the festival – it's simply marvellous. If you have a sweet tooth, you're in luck, as there are loads of sweet shops open during this time. Plus, you'll see charming snow lamps and adorable snowmen pretty much everywhere you look in the city.
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.
