Beyond Nostalgia: Immersion in Otaru’s Timeless Crafts and Cultural Experiences

From its picturesque canals to its historic streets, Otaru is a city that captivates with its timeless beauty. Nestled on the western coast of Hokkaido—an island celebrated for its natural wonders—and less than an hour’s drive from Hokkaido’s capital, Sapporo, Otaru once outshone its neighbor as a thriving port town. Today, the city retains the essence of old Japan, blending Western and Japanese influences into a harmonious mix of nostalgia and uniqueness.

I’ve shared some of Otaru’s one-of-a-kind travel experiences and tours before—have you had a chance to explore them? If not, I encourage you to check them out!

Otaru effortlessly embodies the spirit of old Japan while weaving Western architecture and Japanese heritage into its urban fabric. The result is an atmosphere both nostalgic and modern. Walking through its streets, you’ll occasionally spot people in contemporary kimonos, perfectly complementing the city’s mix of historic charm and modern-day life. This timeless allure shines even brighter during local festivals and events, where the streets come alive in scenes reminiscent of a manga or movie. Whimsical costumes, vibrant decorations, and traditional yukata-clad visitors create a lively yet nostalgic vibe.

Beyond its architecture and fashion, Otaru’s heritage thrives in the hands of its artisans.  The city is renowned for its craftsmanship, from glassblowing and music box making to traditional Japanese artwork. These crafts are not just souvenirs—they’re living expressions of Otaru’s culture, passed down through generations.

The commitment to preserving Otaru’s nostalgic charm is evident everywhere. Many old houses have been thoughtfully repurposed, transforming into spaces that embrace modern functionality while retaining their historical allure.

Otaru invites you to step into its world of history and culture. Whether exploring its historic buildings, admiring the work of local craftspeople, or soaking in its nostalgic atmosphere, every corner of this enchanting city offers a travel experience like no other. Here, you can travel back in time, savor the charm of its good old days, and discover the essence of Otaru—an experience that goes beyond nostalgia.

Table of Contents：
1. Otaru: The Heart of Hokkaido’s Pioneering Spirit
2. Otaru’s Living Craft Traditions
– Craft Your Own Rakkan Seal
– Experience Traditional Wagashi Making
3. Where History Comes Alive: Exploring Japan’s Historic Homes
– The Former Suhara Residence: A Merchant’s Legacy Interwoven with Culture
– Aioi Yanto: An Immersion in Authentic Japanese Living
– NORTHLY: A Creative Haven Blending Tradition and Innovation

Otaru: The Heart of Hokkaido’s Pioneering Spirit

During the pioneering days of Hokkaido, essential supplies were brought into Otaru Port and then distributed to Sakhalin and other parts of Hokkaido. Otaru became a hub for transportation companies and wholesalers. Over time, the city grew not only into a vital port town but also into a key economic and financial center in Hokkaido. With an active trade route across the Sea of Japan, the flow of industrial materials surged, driving the development of various industries.

Otaru quickly became the heart of Hokkaido’s development, at the forefront of technology and innovation. It attracted people from Honshu eager to make their fortune, and its fertile ground nurtured a thriving community of skilled artisans and merchants. This influx of talent is still evident today in Shokunin-zaka (Artisan Slope), a street that reflects the city’s tradition of craftsmanship.

Sakaimachi Shopping Street, a popular destination for tourists from both near and far, crosses the famous Sushi Street and stretches about 300 meters toward the neighboring district. Running almost parallel to it is Shokunin-zaka (Artisan Slope), which passes by one of Otaru’s most famous landmarks, Suitengu Shrine. Along these narrow roads, you can still find shops selling Buddhist altars, furniture, and carpentry, preserving the timeless charm of Otaru’s past.

In its heyday, this area was a vibrant entertainment district, filled with tea houses, restaurants, and other lively establishments, welcoming visitors year-round. As the saying goes, “where people gather, work follows.” The shops along Shokunin-zaka were not just limited to furniture makers and Buddhist altar craftsmen but also included lacquer artisans, upholsterers, carvers, goldsmiths, and even second-hand clothing and antique dealers. It was here, among these artisans, that the name Shokunin-zaka (Artisan Slope) was born.

Of course, it wasn’t just along Shokunin-zaka —artisans and merchants could be found all over Otaru. From the very beginning, the city’s growth and prosperity were built on the craftsmanship of its local people, whose work played a crucial role in the daily lives of Otaru’s residents.

To fully experience Otaru’s deep-rooted craft culture, consider exploring with Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel Inc. (HTIT), an award-winning team specializing in unique, perfectly tailored Hokkaido travel experiences. HTIT offers exclusive cultural encounters that you won’t find with other travel agencies. Worried about language barriers? Don’t be—an English-speaking, licensed tour guide will accompany you every step of the way, helping you connect meaningfully with locals and immerse yourself in their way of life. With carefully curated travel plans, you can venture beyond the typical tourist spots, dive into authentic culture, and create unforgettable memories.

Now, let’s delve into Otaru’s fascinating cultural and artisanal treasures!

Otaru’s Living Craft Traditions

The techniques and traditions of Otaru’s artisans are still thriving today. A shining example of this heritage is the Otaru Meister’s Guild, established in 1992. This unique group brings together 38 artisans from over 30 different trades, including fireworks specialists, Buddhist altar craftsmen, Japanese dyeing experts, metal casters, and artisans skilled in hand-painting family crests on kimonos. The guild fosters collaboration across disciplines, preserving traditional techniques while also exploring innovative methods to ensure their survival. They study systems from other regions of Japan and abroad, incorporating fresh ideas to sustain and share these crafts with future generations.

The guild’s mission is to honor these time-honored traditions, rejuvenate the local craft community, and showcase the beauty and culture of these skills to a wider audience. They offer a diverse range of artisan workshops where visitors can experience Otaru’s rich craftsmanship firsthand. These hands-on programs feature more than 10 unique tours. Let’s dive into some of these craftsmanship tours, where you can master the high-level techniques of Otaru’s skilled artisans!

・ Craft Your Own Rakkan Seal

First on the list is the rakkan seal-making tour. A rakkan is a personalized stamp traditionally used by calligraphers and artists to sign their works. This workshop is guided by Yumi Matsuda, a certified seal engraving artisan with a recognized national qualification.

Acquiring her certification required remarkable dedication—Ms. Matsuda spent 2 years studying at Japan’s only seal engraving school, located in Yokohama, while also working full-time throughout her course. After earning her qualification, she returned to Otaru to inherit her family’s business, which boasts over 80 years of history. Ms. Matsuda, now a third-generation artisan, learned under the guidance of her father, the second-generation owner and a representative of the Otaru Meister’s Guild. She continues to hone her craft, even studying calligraphy to further enhance her skills.

In this workshop, participants typically engrave their names in kanji. If you don’t have a Japanese name, no problem—Ms. Matsuda selects auspicious kanji characters based on the sound of your name. Alternatively, you can choose a favorite word or phrase to engrave instead.

The process begins with selecting a design for your seal from a reference book filled with samples. After sketching several design options within a small square on paper, you pick your favorite design to transfer onto a soft white stone, specially used for seal-making.

Using a specialized engraving knife, you’ll carve your design into the stone. This step requires focus and precision, but Ms. Matsuda provides attentive guidance to ensure success. A stabilizing tool holds the small stone securely, making it easier to work with the knife’s edges and flat surfaces. Even children can enjoy this activity and produce impressive results!

I tried my hand at making a rakkan seal myself—look at this! The finished seal is neatly packaged in a custom pouch for you to take home. Every New Year, I participate in Japan’s tradition of kakizome, the First Writing of the year, where we express our wishes or goals for the coming months. This year, I’m especially excited to use my handmade rakkan seal for this meaningful occasion.

The workshop lasts about 90 minutes, requires no prior preparation, and offers the chance to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece. This hands-on experience is not to be missed!

・ Experience Traditional Wagashi Making

Let me introduce you to a tour, where you can immerse yourself in the art of crafting traditional Japanese confections (wagashi). These delicate sweets draw inspiration from seasonal motifs such as flowers, animals, and natural elements, beautifully reflecting the essence of Japan’s changing seasons in edible form.

Although there are various types of wagashi, they differ from Western confections in their use of ingredients. Unlike Western sweets, which often rely on animal-based ingredients like butter and cream, wagashi are crafted primarily from plant-based ingredients. Beans, rice, wheat flour, fruits, and other blessings of nature are used to create these confections. This focus on natural and seasonal ingredients gives each piece a refined sense of beauty, as if capturing a fragment of nature in every bite.

Otaru has a rich history of artisanal sweets, dating back about 150 years to the establishment of its first authentic confectionery shop. This cherished craft has been passed down through generations, and today, you can join a wagashi-making tour led by Koji Makita, the second-generation owner of Tsukushi Makita, a renowned wagashi shop in Otaru. Mr. Makita inherited the business from his father, who trained under a master confectioner, ensuring that this beautiful tradition continues to thrive.

During the workshop, Mr. Makita occasionally showcases antique wooden molds, historically used to create wagashi. His shop houses a collection of over 400 intricate molds, each a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of past generations. These molds, essential tools in wagashi-making, are works of art in their own right.

In this hands-on experience, you’ll create nerikiri, a type of soft wagashi made primarily from sweet bean paste. You’ll craft four different designs, each featuring unique patterns and shapes. The process involves rolling the bean paste into smooth spheres, layering them with vibrant colors, and using wooden and bamboo tools to carve delicate lines, grooves, and textures. The work is neat and detailed—shaping petals, achieving a seamless gradation, and polishing the surface to a subtle shine. But don’t worry, even children can enjoy the experience! It’s a delicate yet approachable art, offering an engaging way to connect with Japanese culture while celebrating the seasonal motifs reflected in wagashi.

The 90-minute workshop requires no prior preparation and offers a delightful opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry of Japanese confectionery. By the end, you’ll have created your own edible masterpieces, blending tradition and creativity with your own hands.

The offerings don’t stop there! The guild also provides traditional workshops such as Gold Leaf Chopstick Making with a Buddhist altar craftsman, Japanese Tie-Dyeing with a textile artisan, and Family Crest Fan (Sensu) Making with a heraldic artist.

If modern crafts are more your style, the guild features various programs tailored to contemporary tastes.

These immersive tours provide a gateway to Otaru’s vibrant craft culture, blending tradition with personal creativity. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious visitor, these workshops are a memorable way to connect with the timeless artistry of Otaru’s artisans.

Where History Comes Alive: Exploring Japan’s Historic Homes

The late 18th to early 19th century marked the golden age of Otaru. During this period, numerous modern buildings featuring cutting-edge technology and sophisticated designs were constructed, reflecting the era’s innovative spirit. The city boasts several iconic structures that stand as a testament to its rich history. Among them is the former Nippon Yusen Kaisha Otaru Branch, a National Important Cultural Property built in 1906, which is slated to reopen in 2025 after extensive renovations. Otaru is also home to other architectural landmarks, including many old bank buildings designed by prominent architects, offering visitors a window into the city’s cultural heritage.

Alongside these modern structures, Otaru preserves its traditional craftsmanship through historic Japanese houses, which seamlessly integrate into the rhythms of modern life. These homes offer a glimpse into an era when Japanese-style clothing, culture, and architecture were woven into everyday life. Built using traditional techniques, these houses were crafted with natural materials such as earthen walls, plaster, and unprocessed timber beams and pillars, resulting in unique designs that embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics. Remnants of that lifestyle can still be found across Otaru, where each house reflects a harmonious relationship with nature, sustainability, and timeless artistry.

In an era dominated by mass production and consumption, these enduring homes now serve as venues for unique encounters with traditional culture. Whether you choose to stay overnight, enjoy a cup of coffee, or participate in a pottery workshop, they invite you to travel back in time to the charm of a bygone era. Spending time in these traditional houses, which have stood the test of time for decades or even centuries, offers a rare opportunity to connect with the beauty and resilience of Japan’s cultural heritage.

・Former Suhara Residence: A Merchant’s Legacy Interwoven with Culturel

The former Suhara Residence, located near the famed Shokunin-zaka (Artisan Slope), is a historic mansion once owned by a prominent merchant. If you’re familiar with Japanese cinema, you may recognize it as a location from Love Letter, an iconic film beloved not only in Japan but also across Asia. This stunning Japanese-style home, complete with a meticulously maintained garden, also features Western-style rooms, exemplifying a harmonious blend of traditional and modern influences that are quintessentially Otaru.

Open to the public on weekends during the summer, the residence serves as a vibrant hub of Otaru’s culture, hosting events such as kimono flea markets, yukata photo sessions, and workshops like furoshiki wrapping. Furoshiki, traditional Japanese wrapping cloths with over 1,200 years of history, are iconic square pieces of fabric used for wrapping gifts and other items. Today, they are celebrated both in Japan and abroad for their reusability and eco-friendliness, reflecting Japan’s deep respect for the environment.

Adding to its charm, the residence also hosts modern events like jazz performances, which blend seamlessly with the historic ambiance. As a venue that actively promotes Otaru’s connection to traditional Japanese attire, it’s not uncommon to encounter visitors strolling nearby in kimono or yukata, further enhancing the area’s nostalgic atmosphere. The Suhara Residence is also available as a rental space, making it an ideal setting for photo shoots, especially for those looking to capture the elegance of traditional attire against a historic backdrop.

・ Aioi Yanto: An Immersion in Authentic Japanese Living

Another notable venue near Shokunin-zaka (Artisan Slope) is Aioi Yanto, a charming rental house set in a beautifully renovated 19th-century home that once belonged to a lacquer artisan. The property offers an exclusive one-group-per-day stay, thoughtfully designed by host Satomi Shimooka. Having traveled to over 40 countries, Satomi was inspired to share the beauty of everyday life in Japan and chose Otaru as the perfect place to open Aioi Yanto.

The charm of this traditional Japanese house lies in its masterful use of natural materials and the preservation of time-honored craftsmanship. Every detail of this carefully curated space, lovingly restored by Satomi herself, will exceed your expectations. Delicate Japanese ornaments and decorations adorn the home, creating a visual delight that enhances the serene atmosphere.

Conveniently located near Sakaimachi Street, the house’s prime location is an added advantage. However, what truly sets Aioi Yanto apart is the opportunity to connect with its resident host and gain a firsthand experience of authentic Japanese living. A standout feature is its Local Concierge Service, where Satomi offers tailored recommendations for local dining and attractions. Guests can also opt for guided tours of nearby landmarks or enjoy immersive experiences like a traditional Japanese hot pot meal or a matcha tea ceremony.

While modern Japanese homes often favor Western-style elements like flooring, doors, and closets, staying in a traditional Japanese house like Aioi Yanto offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in Japan’s unique lifestyle. Sleep on futons, admire the tokonoma alcove, and enjoy features like kotatsu tables or traditional wardrobes, providing an authentic glimpse into everyday life from a bygone era. Here, the stay itself becomes a special kind of journey—one that deeply connects you to Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

・ NORTHLY: A Creative Haven Blending Tradition and Innovation

Adding to the charm is the on-site café, which serves authentic biryani—so delicious that even Hide’s Indian friends claim it surpasses the original! After the pottery experience, I had the pleasure of enjoying a London Fog, a drink that’s still relatively unknown in Japan. The subtly sweet and warm beverage was the perfect way to unwind after focusing on my craft. Naturally, the cup was one of Hide’s creations. A variety of beverages are also available, along with an impressive collection of pottery and artwork for purchase.

Upstairs, the space continues to reflect the artist’s creative vision, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with his artistic flair, much like the first floor. This thoughtful design creates a harmonious atmosphere that enhances the artistic energy of the entire building.

The studio’s location is equally captivating. With breathtaking views of Mount Tengu, the tranquil Japanese white birch groves of nearby Otaru Park, and historic sites such as the Sakaushi Residence—designed by Yoshiya Tanoue, a disciple of Frank Lloyd Wright—spending time here offers an immersive experience that captivates all the senses.

(Note: Reservations are required for all activities and menus at NORTHLY, and pottery takes approximately two months to bake.)

In addition to historic residences, Otaru’s downtown area is also home to numerous historical buildings that have been transformed into modern hotels for staying overnight. These accommodations beautifully preserve the essence of a bygone era while ensuring a comfortable stay for contemporary travelers. Take, for example, the former Otaru Chamber of Commerce building, now reimagined as the stylish OMO 5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts, or the old Etchuya Hotel, originally opened about 90 years ago as Hokkaido’s first hotel catering to foreign guests. It has been reborn as the trendy UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru. These restored landmarks offer a fascinating window into Otaru’s past, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern luxury.

Across the city, you’ll also find an array of restaurants, cafes, and boutique accommodations housed in renovated historical buildings. These spots represent just a small glimpse into the rich culture that Otaru has to offer. Located only 30 minutes by train from Sapporo, Otaru exudes a nostalgic and unhurried charm, making it the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the fusion of traditional and modern Japanese aesthetics.

For those seeking a truly authentic local tour, we invite you to contact our travel agency, Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel. Our dedicated travel consultants will craft a personalized Hokkaido journey tailored just for you. From your arrival at the airport to your departure, our expert team—including private drivers and English-speaking guides—will fully support your travel needs. Let’s work together to design an unforgettable journey that’s uniquely yours!