Anastasia Smith
A delightful cultural hotspot with a history that tells fascinating narratives, Otaru is a city in Hokkaido, Japan. Several attractions and things to do await to offer you the experience of a lifetime.
With its calming and enchanting presence, Otaru Canal holds so much history that would fill any history buff with joy. During the first half of the 20th century, Otaru was a famous port city visited by merchants from across the world. The canal was necessary for the transportation of goods to warehouses and shops in the city. With the advent of newer and more efficient modes of transportation, however, the canal became superfluous to the needs of merchants. What you know today as Otaru Canal is only a part of the original canal. Even though the canal no longer serves a commercial trade need, it remains an important link that connects past and present. The warehouses sitting on the canal banks are now shops, museums, and restaurants. The canal creates a perfect serene setting for those romantic at heart to take a stroll, basking in the serene atmosphere. Adding to that fact, some of the best hotels in Otaru are within easy reach of it as well including properties such as Grand Park Otaru.
Known as Tenguyama by the locals, this 533 metre high mountain offers breathtaking vistas of Otaru Port, Ishikari Bay, Otaru city and the Sea of Japan. The mountain is easily reachable from the Tenguyama Ropeway which has a lower and upper station. Take a ride to the upper station where you can enjoy the views of Otaru from one of the cafes or restaurants here. Not to mention, the rooftop observatory is perfect for when you visit after dark for a night view of the city.
Fishing in Otaru was once a booming industry. While herring did form part of the local diet, it was only to an extent. But sustenance was not the goal of the industry. Herring was processed to be used as fertiliser. The industry made many a person wealthy, and they built mansions all over Otaru, for both residential and business purposes. Parts of these mansions housed workers as well. With the end of the herring industry, however, these mansions became surplus to the city’s needs. So, most of them were converted into shops and restaurants. But there’s one mansion where you still can see the glory of the past herring industry. Dating back to the 19th century, this site known as the Herring Mansion is about five kilometres from the city centre and is worth a visit.
Another historical attraction, Sakaimachi Street is home to several old buildings now serving as shops, museums, and restaurants. It’s a merchant city found just a short distance from the canal. During the 20th century, when this destination thrived as a port city, businessmen of all kinds poured into the city. They began building Western-style buildings in the area to establish their claim on the city. Here, in Sakaimachi Street, you find some of the most popular landmarks in Otaru. They include the Music Box Museum, the Museum of Venetian Art, and the Bank of Japan Museum. Additionally, the many glass shops found in this locale sell various glassworks and allow you to have a go at glassmaking yourself.
Throughout the year, Otaru plays host to several festivals you wouldn’t want to miss. The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, for one, takes place in February, during which the canal banks light up with lanterns and ice sculptures, creating a magical atmosphere.
