Table of Contents：
1. Savoring fresh seafood: Otaru Station ~ The Fish Markets
2. Discovering the Origins of Hokkaido’s Railway: The Fish Markets ~ Former Temiya Line
3. Journeying through Time: Former Temiya Line ~ North Canal
4. Exploring Historic Architecture: Ironai Banking District ~ Sakaimachi Shopping Street
5. Discovering Otaru’s Secret Charms in Kimono
Otaru, a city that beckons 8 million visitors each year, invites you to step into its timeless allure. Nestled along Japan’s northern coast, Otaru is a charming town adorned with enchanting canal pathways lined by historic warehouses-turned-boutiques and eateries. It offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Listen to the tale of Otaru, which begins with the sea, and discover the artistry of its glassworks, the melodies of its music boxes, and the flavors of its fresh seafood—all woven into the fabric of this coastal gem. With its rich history and irresistible charm, Otaru entices tourists from around the world to visit year-round. Whether wandering its cobblestone streets or savoring its culinary delights, Otaru invites travelers to immerse themselves in its historic charm and picturesque landscapes, and leaves an indelible mark on every visitor’s heart.
Easily accessible from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, this charming town captivates everyone from first-time tourists to repeat visitors.
Today we’ll delve into the delightful ways to explore Otaru, uncovering hidden treasures that can’t be fully appreciated in just one day. Guided by a local of Otaru, we’ll unveil the city’s newfound allure and showcase its distinctive charm!
Savoring fresh seafood: Otaru Station ~ The Fish Markets
As you step out of JR Otaru Station, which is adorned with 333 glass lamps hanging in its concourse and boasts a ceiling with striking features, you’re greeted by the gateway to this northern Japanese port city. The interplay of sunlight casting beautiful shadows adds to the station’s historical charm, with the lamps lending a nostalgic touch to its ambiance. Before you embark on a leisurely stroll downhill from Otaru Station, how about I clue you in on a few must-sees in this enchanted city?
Once a bustling sea gateway and the first place where the railway was laid in Hokkaido, there were numerous local markets. At their peak, there were over 25 markets, but now only five remain. Despite this decline, they remain beloved by both locals and tourists alike. Let me introduce you to two of them, conveniently located near Otaru Station.
・Otaru Sankaku Market and Otaru Chuo Market
Let’s start with Otaru Sankaku Market. Conveniently located near the station, this bustling indoor market stretches for about 200 meters on a gentle slope with a variety of shops lining both sides of its narrow aisles. Each shop offers seasonal fresh local fish, some of which are rare finds, and an array of crabs, including large king crabs and hairy crabs, swimming in tanks. Interacting with the local staff adds to the experience. The market’s restaurants, operated by fresh fish vendors, consistently attract long queues from early morning. Here you can indulge in seafood bowls and set meals made with fresh catches, or even have the fish you purchased cooked on the spot. Despite the long queues, it’s definitely worth the wait.
Otaru is also renowned for its numerous hills and adjacent to the market lies one of its most famous slopes, aptly named Funamizaka (船見坂), which translates to ‘the slope where you can see the ships.’ A brief ascent up this steep slope will reveal the origin of its name. At the end of the lengthy road, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular view of Otaru Port.
Locals often ascend the slope, enjoying the sights along the way. Legend has it that the prosperous residents of old Otaru once lived here, relishing vistas of the blue sea and distant mountains. This scenic spot has been featured in TV dramas and movies set in Otaru and remains a favorite among tourists for its picturesque appeal.
Just across National Route 5 lies Otaru Chuo Market. Taking advantage of its proximity to Otaru Station, this market was once a bustling distribution hub for goods and continues to attract many locals. In addition to offering essentials like fish, meat, rice cakes, cooked side dishes, and flowers, there are also exhibitions where visitors can learn about life in historic Otaru.
Discovering the Origins of Hokkaido’s Railway: The Fish Markets ~ Former Temiya Line
As you leisurely stroll downhill, you’ll meander through local shopping streets and come across one of the area’s most beloved restaurants, Naruto (若鶏時代なると). It is renowned for its original spicy, juicy, and crispy fried chicken—an absolute favorite among us Otaru locals. But it’s not just about the fried chicken here. This eatery boasts a diverse menu showcasing Otaru’s seafood specialties, from sushi and rice bowls to set meals, curry, tempura, ramen, and more. It’s always bustling with long queues, thanks to its wide array of enticing dishes.
Just a short five-minute walk away lies one of Otaru’s cherished cultural treasures: the Former Temiya Line. This railway, Hokkaido’s oldest, began offering services between Temiya (Otaru) and Sapporo in 1880 and ceased operations over a century later in 1985. Today, a section of its tracks has been preserved as a walking trail for visitors to enjoy. In the summer, it hosts the lively Otaru Glass Market (小樽がらす市), while in winter, the enchanting Otaru Snow Light Path (小樽雪あかりの路) illuminates the area with candles. For locals, this spot offers a serene retreat from the downtown hustle and bustle.
Stretching approximately 1.6 kilometers from the Otaru Museum to Sushi Street (寿司屋通り), the Former Temiya Line trail is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Walking from one end to the other takes about 30 minutes. Depending on the season, you may encounter blooming cherry blossoms or other flowers along the way. Should you feel weary, there are benches where you can take a rest. The tranquil surroundings provide the perfect atmosphere to relax, unwind, and perhaps lose track of time. Many visitors also enjoy walking along the tracks, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts!
Journeying through Time: Former Temiya Line ~ North Canal
Otaru Museum, located at the endpoint of the Former Temiya Line, is just a short walk from the iconic starting point of the Otaru Canal, a symbol of this city. After a leisurely stroll along the Former Temiya Line, why not continue your exploration along the Otaru Canal Promenade? This area, known as North Canal, exudes the quaint charm of an old port town, with its serene streets and historic buildings, including the Former Otaru Branch of NYK Line, a designated National Important Cultural Property, and warehouses erected by prosperous shipowners. Numerous remnants of old Otaru, such as the gas lamps lining the canal and the Hokkai Seikan Otaru Factory No. 3 Warehouse, evoke the nostalgic atmosphere of yesteryears. Take your time to explore this area at your own pace and bask in its timeless ambiance, which has remained unchanged over the years.
In the vicinity of these two parallel walking paths, you’ll discover charming cafes and shops where the craftsmanship of artisans, deeply rooted in Otaru’s history, shines brightly. Renovated stone warehouses host cafes and restaurants that are a must-visit. Establishments like the cafe and bar Stone and Iron (石と鉄) and the Italian restaurant ISO seamlessly blend modern style with historic charm, and many of them are housed in old stone or red brick warehouses. For a delightful cup of coffee and a light meal with a view of the North Canal, PRESS CAFÉ is another excellent option.
Furthermore, there are numerous other shops worth exploring. These range from Ameya Rokubei Honpo (飴屋六兵衛本舗), which has been crafting candy since the Edo period, to Sasaki Sewing Factory (佐々木縫製所), which offers stylish products made with sailcloth using traditional techniques, and Tanaka Sake Brewery, the last remaining brewery in Otaru where you can sample sake in a historic setting.
Don’t miss Otaru Department Store Unga Plus (小樽百貨UNGA↑), where you’ll find a delightful array of products crafted by local artisans. This unique shop draws inspiration from the Kitamae-bune (北前船), vessels which played a pivotal role in Otaru’s history. Kitamae-bune were merchant ships that traversed Japan’s seas during the Edo period, serving as mobile trading hubs and visiting various ports along the Sea of Japan. Housed within a historic former warehouse (旧小樽倉庫) built by one of the shipowners, the store offers a curated selection of top-quality goods. With seasonal events held at the gallery on the 2nd floor, Unga Plus has become a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. You’re bound to discover some favorites to treasure here.
At the end of the promenade, you’ll be greeted by the picturesque view of the canal from Asakusa Bridge, a true symbol of Otaru!
・ Otaru Canal
While the Otaru Canal now stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s charm, its preservation was not always guaranteed. Over a century ago, Otaru Port bustled with activity as ships navigated congested waters, ferrying goods from Hokkaido to Honshu. In response to this congestion, the Otaru Canal was painstakingly built, and it celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023. Once the bustling heart of Otaru, the canal saw barges ferrying goods from offshore ships to warehouses.
However, as time progressed and new docks were constructed, the canal gradually lost its original purpose. Eventually, it was even filled in to accommodate roads for automobiles. Yet, amidst these changes, the people of Otaru rallied to protect their heritage. Through years of lobbying and discussions, they succeeded in preserving half of the canal, ensuring that this historic landmark would remain an integral part of our cityscape.
Today, the beautifully maintained Otaru Canal, and its cobblestone promenade adorned with gas lamps, serve as cherished reminders of our past. Take a leisurely stroll along its banks and reflect on its rich history and the tireless efforts made to preserve this invaluable piece of our heritage.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the charm of the Otaru Canal firsthand with the Otaru Canal Cruise. As you glide along the water, the knowledgeable captain will regale you with insights into the city’s history during the scenic 40-minute cruise, offering a unique perspective on Otaru’s storied past.
・ The Latest Excitement at Otaru’s Waterfront
Before we delve into Otaru’s highlights, let’s first explore some of the city’s latest attractions. Otaru’s rich maritime history has led to exciting developments in its harbor area over the past year, offering fresh experiences for visitors.
A state-of-the-art cruise ship terminal now stands proudly near downtown Otaru, and can accommodate even the largest vessels, weighing up to 140,000 tons.
This spring, we celebrated the grand opening of Port Marche Otaru OTAEUE and the Otaru International Information Center. These venues showcase local specialties and provide a space for visitors to immerse themselves in the seaside ambiance.
Furthermore, plans are underway for a new tourist boat terminal and enhancements to nearby parks, transforming the waterfront into an even more enchanting destination that captures Otaru’s unique charm. It’s bound to become a beloved spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Adjacent to these developments lies a boarding area where you can embark on the Aobato tour boat and venture into the scenic Shakotan area of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park(ニセコ積丹小樽海岸国定公園). Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring views of the ocean and the rugged sea cliffs that define this breathtaking landscape.
Exploring Historic Architecture: Ironai Banking District ~ Sakaimachi Shopping Street
Now you’re entering what could be described as Otaru’s golden route. The city experienced peak prosperity after the construction of the Otaru Canal. It thrived as a commercial center in Hokkaido, evolving into a financial hub with up to 25 banks operating throughout the city. Even now, many bank buildings remain, offering glimpses into Japan’s modernization and Otaru’s past prosperity. Moreover, numerous merchants achieved success, and along Sakaimachi Street you can still see the merchant houses they once inhabited. While you indulge in your shopping experience, take a moment to admire these historic buildings.
・ Ironai Banking District
Starting from Asakusa Bridge on the Otaru Canal, the path leads to Nichigin Street, where the former Bank of Japan Otaru Branch stands. Now housing the Financial Museum, this historic edifice is particularly enchanting when illuminated at night. It was crafted by the same architects responsible for the Bank of Japan Head Office and the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building.
Additionally, the Former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch and the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch have undergone a remarkable transformation into museums, collectively known as Otaru Art Base. At the Nitori Museum of Art, visitors can expect to see a dynamic display of artworks, including priceless Japanese paintings. The artwork on display may vary depending on the season or with each visit, ensuring there’s always something new to see.
The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, recognized as a National Important Cultural Property, epitomizes Otaru’s golden age. It boasts a Renaissance-inspired exterior and an elegantly adorned interior with exquisite plaster sculptures. The integration of kaleidoscopic projection mapping and AR technology elevates the museum experience to new heights. The other two museums, the Stained Glass Museum and the House of Western Art, are located in a stone warehouse and offer ample opportunities to leisurely admire a diverse range of artworks.
Explore the refined atmosphere of these converted bank buildings, along with numerous others that have been repurposed into charming restaurants and boutiques, offering a nostalgic glimpse into their former splendor.
・ Sakaimachi Shopping Street
Nichigin Street intersects with Sakaimachi Street, a bustling thoroughfare boasting approximately 90 shops offering a wide range of goods. Within this 900-meter stretch you’ll find everything from delectable sweets, including delicious ice cream, to music boxes, seafood, convenient snacks, and even kelp.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Otaru’s iconic souvenir—glassware—in all its splendor, showcasing the city’s rich heritage of glass production. Marvel at relics like oil lamps from bygone eras and glass fishing floats once integral to local fishing traditions. This enduring tradition of glass craftsmanship also provides opportunities for artisanal crafts and workshops.
Standout attractions among these establishments include the Kitaichi Glass Building No. 3, ingeniously repurposed from a historic stone warehouse crafted from Otaru soft stone. Another highlight is the Taisho Glass Museum Main Store, which embodies the essence of traditional merchant architecture. Shopping amidst these remarkable buildings promises an exceptional experience.
Famed for its Double Fromage cheesecake, the renowned LeTAO has a fascinating story behind its name, which stems from the French phrase ‘Le Tour Amitie Otaru,’ meaning ‘Beloved Tower of Otaru.’ When you see the main store, you can recognize the reason: its tower-top observation deck serves as a gentle reminder of the nearby sea! Interestingly, Sakaimachi Street, now teeming with life, is reclaimed land and was formerly part of the sea. Besides LeTAO, you’ll encounter a plethora of sweets shops lining the street, each tempting passersby with delightful Otaru-only treats like Otart (オタルト) from Ryugetsu (柳月) and the apple cake from Kitakaro (北菓楼).
Adding to the allure, made-in-Japan music boxes that perfectly complement Otaru’s nostalgic ambiance have become another hallmark of the town. With nearly 40 million products available, discovering your favorite becomes a delightful adventure at Otaru Orgel Doh (小樽オルゴール堂). Take a look at this unique music box! It looks just like the real thing, doesn’t it?
Furthermore, an array of shops offering matcha, character goods, wooden items, chopsticks, and so much more cram the streets, ensuring there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in Otaru’s nostalgic charm.
Discovering Otaru’s Secret Charms in Kimono
Lately, you may have noticed a growing trend: the popularity of wearing kimono in Japan. Otaru, renowned for its charm with traditional attire like kimono, boasts several kimono rental shops throughout the town. One of my favorites is Otaru Komachi (おたる小町), conveniently situated near Otaru Station. They offer a variety of easy-to-wear kimono rentals along with friendly assistance in dressing up. You can give it a try without feeling nervous! Exploring Sakaimachi Street or walking along the former Temiya Line railway track in a kimono evokes a nostalgic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for capturing quintessential Japanese moments.
I also recommend that guests wearing kimono take leisurely walks around shrines or traditional Japanese houses. Ascending the steep slope from Sakaimachi Street reveals historic residences like the former Suhara Residence, which is occasionally open to the public for events. While the climb may be challenging, the panoramic view from the top offers a glimpse into the past enjoyed by affluent merchants. It’s a hidden gem that offers another perspective of Otaru. Women wearing kimono often gather here, even coming all the way from Sapporo, to experience the harmonious atmosphere firsthand.
Another highlight is the Former Otaru District Auditorium (小樽市公会堂), which features a distinguished Noh stage, providing insight into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. (Please note that due to roof retiling being done for the first time in 64 years, it’s not open to the public in 2024.)
In Otaru, a city steeped in maritime history, numerous shrines were erected to pray for safe voyages and thriving commerce. At the heart of the city lies Sumiyoshi Shrine, alongside other significant shrines such as Suitengu Shrine and Ryugu Shrine. Many of my guests from abroad have thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the beautiful Japanese scenery while dressed in traditional kimono. If you happen upon one of Otaru’s vibrant local festivals held at these shrines, it adds to the city’s charm.
The largest shrine in Otaru is Sumiyoshi Shrine, proudly visible from Minami-Otaru Station near Sakaimachi Street. Its most striking feature is the grand torii gate, a devotional offering from the Kitamae-bune shipowners. Sumiyoshi Shrine is known for hosting the popular Hanachozu (花手水) events, which mark the beginning of cherry blossom season in Hokkaido. When visiting shrines, you’ll often come across a chozuya (手水舎), a place to cleanse your hands with water using a ladle. At Otaru Sumiyoshi Shrine, these often feature lovely floral displays known as Hanachozu.
The sea breeze wafting through the shrine grounds carries the same fresh air that has graced these shores for centuries, offering a rejuvenating experience.
The charm of Otaru showcased here is just the beginning. And the best part? All these places are just a short distance from Otaru Station. To witness the vestiges of a time when this city flourished even more than Sapporo, it only takes about 30 minutes by express train from Sapporo. Be sure to explore our range of Otaru tours and add them to your Hokkaido itinerary. While you’re in town, take your time to stroll through the charming and picturesque streets at your own pace, and discover your own hidden gems of scenery.
