12 Fun Activities To Experience In Otaru, Japan

Otaru, Japan is a charm-filled town located in Hokkaido island's southwestern coast, producing delectable seafood, historical architecture, and an old-town ambience. The town is a necessary stop for tourists seeking to explore Japan's rich culture and scenic beauty. Besides its significant hist attributes, Otaru also boasts several entertaining activities that attract local and foreign visitors alike. From exquisite brewery tours to lantern-lit strolls through quaint streets, the town ensures that tourists always have something exciting to engage in. This article explores 12 fun activities that visitors can indulge in while touring the beautiful Otaru, Japan.

Snowshoeing in the Snow Light Path Festival

Otaru, a charming port city in Hokkaido, Japan, is known for its beautiful Snow Light Path Festival that attracts visitors from around the world. The festival, which takes place every year in early February, is a celebration of snow and light, with various events and activities taking place throughout the city. One of the most popular activities during the festival is snowshoeing, a fantastic way to explore the winter wonderland that Otaru becomes during this time.

Snowshoeing is a traditional method of walking on snow that dates back thousands of years. It involves strapping on a pair of lightweight, wide shoes that distribute the weight of the body across a larger surface area, preventing the feet from sinking into deep snow. Today, snowshoeing has evolved into a popular winter sport, with enthusiasts around the world heading to snowy destinations to enjoy this fun and exhilarating activity.

During the Snow Light Path Festival, visitors can rent snowshoes and explore the snowy streets of Otaru. The festival creates a magical atmosphere, with lanterns lining the paths and snow sculptures dotting the landscape. As you snowshoe along the paths, you'll experience the beauty of the snow-covered city in a whole new way. The illuminated lanterns and snow sculptures create a stunning backdrop, and the crisp winter air is invigorating.

One of the most popular places to snowshoe during the festival is the historic Otaru Canal. The canal, which was built in the early 20th century, is a picturesque waterway that runs through the heart of the city. During the festival, the canal is lined with snow sculptures, and visitors can snowshoe along the bank, taking in the stunning views. The illumination of the snow sculptures and lanterns on the canal create a romantic and unforgettable winter scene.

Another must-see during the festival is the Temiya Line, an old railway line that has been converted into a snow path. The path winds its way through the snowy countryside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Snowshoeing along the Temiya Line is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Hokkaido's winter beauty.

Overall, snowshoeing during the Snow Light Path Festival is a wonderful way to experience the magic of Otaru in the wintertime. Whether you're an experienced snowshoer or a first-timer, there's no better time to give it a try. The festival creates a unique and enchanting atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else, making it a must-visit for any winter enthusiast.

Visit the Otaru Canal

Otaru is a small port town located on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. It is a picturesque town with stunning views of the Sea of Japan and a rich history in fishing and trade. One of the most popular attractions in Otaru is the Otaru Canal.

The Otaru Canal dates back to the 1920s when it was used as a bustling port for shipping goods and materials. Today, the canal is more of a tourist attraction than a shipping port, and visitors from all over the world flock to the canal to take in its scenic beauty and historical significance.

The Otaru Canal is a charming, narrow waterway with brick buildings lining its edges and old-fashioned gas lamps illuminating the path. Visitors can walk along the canal's promenade, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding area and watching small boats pass by.

One of the best times to visit the Otaru Canal is during the winter months when the town is decorated with thousands of twinkling lights for the Otaru Snow Light Path festival. The festival transforms Otaru into a magical winter wonderland, with light displays along the canal and other areas of the town.

Aside from its aesthetic charm, the Otaru Canal also has a historical significance. The canal was once a key location for the trading of herring and other fish in Hokkaido. Today, visitors can learn more about this history at the Otaru Canal Museum, where they can see artifacts and exhibits related to the canal's past.

Overall, a trip to Otaru wouldn't be complete without a visit to the famous Otaru Canal. It's a place where visitors can see a piece of Japan's history while also enjoying the town's picturesque beauty.

Sake tasting and brewery tour

Otaru is a charming port town on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido. This city is quite famous for its beautiful canal, Hokkaido's water supply, and its historical stone warehouse district. However, it is also known for its delicious sake, and visitors can enjoy a sake tasting and brewery tour in Otaru.

The sake industry is very important in Otaru, where the quality of the water and the temperature allow for high-quality brews. There are several sake breweries in the town, each with its unique taste, brewing process, and brewing facilities. As a result, it is essential to explore as many breweries as possible to experience the full range of sake flavors and differences.

One popular location for sake tasting and a brewery tour is the Otaru Beer and Sake Brewery. The tour begins with a 15-minute movie presentation about their brewing process, followed by an informative tour of the distillery. Visitors get to see the tanks where the fermentation process occurs, and experts demonstrate how the sake is made.

After the tour, visitors can participate in a tasting session, where they can taste the various types of sake available, each with its unique flavor and texture. This tasting session is an excellent opportunity for visitors to try new and different types of sake and learn how the flavors emerge.

Another popular brewery tour location is the Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery, located just north of Otaru. This distillery is in operation since 1934 and is responsible for the creation of some of Japan's best whiskey blends. Visitors can experience the whiskey-making process, learn the history of the distillery, and taste the whiskey it produces. This experience can provide you with a vast depth of knowledge about whiskey-making and the different types available.

In conclusion, a sake tasting and brewery tour is a must-try when visiting Otaru. The opportunity to taste some of the best Japanese sake and learn about the brewing process and history represents a unique cultural experience. You should research the different breweries available and plan in advance to ensure you can experience as much as possible during your visit.

Take a sushi-making class

Otaru is a beautiful and historic city located on the western coast of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. It's known for its picturesque canal district, which features restored brick warehouses and a variety of shops and restaurants. One of the best things to do in Otaru is to take a sushi-making class, where you can learn about the city's culinary traditions and try your hand at making your own delicious sushi.

Sushi is one of Japan's most popular foods, known worldwide for its delicious and fresh taste. It consists of vinegared rice, usually mixed with other ingredients such as fish, vegetables, or eggs, and is often served with soy sauce and wasabi. Sushi has a long history in Japan, dating back to the 8th century, and has since become a unique and beloved part of the country's cuisine.

Taking a sushi-making class in Otaru is a great way to experience Japan's culinary culture firsthand. These classes are usually held in a local restaurant or cooking school and are led by experienced sushi chefs. You'll learn all about the ingredients and techniques used in traditional sushi-making, including preparing the perfect sushi rice, selecting the freshest fish and other ingredients, and properly shaping and cutting the sushi.

One of the best things about taking a sushi-making class in Otaru is the opportunity to use local, seasonal ingredients. Hokkaido is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, crab, and squid, all of which are popular ingredients in sushi. You may also get to use other local ingredients, such as vegetables, mushrooms, or even uni (sea urchin).

Not only is taking a sushi-making class in Otaru a fun and educational experience, but it also allows you to taste your own creations. At the end of the class, you'll get to sit down and enjoy the sushi you made, along with any other dishes that the restaurant or cooking school may offer. This is a great chance to try new flavors and combinations, as well as to appreciate the skill and artistry that goes into making great sushi.

Overall, taking a sushi-making class in Otaru is a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to learn about Japan's culinary culture while having fun and trying new things. Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover or a beginner, you're sure to enjoy this hands-on experience and come away with a newfound appreciation for one of Japan's most beloved dishes.

Explore the Otaru Music Box Museum

Otaru is a quaint port city on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. It's known for its picturesque scenery, fresh seafood, and historic buildings. One of the many attractions that draw tourists to Otaru is the Otaru Music Box Museum. This museum is dedicated to Japanese music boxes and their history.

The museum was opened in 1978 and is located in a charming brick building that is over a century old. The building was originally a shop where a famous Japanese businessman, Shoyeido Tanaka, sold traditional Japanese silk. In 1912, the shop was converted into a music box store. Later, the store was expanded into a museum and is now one of the top tourist attractions in Otaru.

The Otaru Music Box Museum's collection has thousands of music boxes that come in different shapes, designs, and sizes. The museum has a wide variety of music boxes from antique ones to the latest models. Each music box comes with a unique tune that plays when you wind it up. Visitors can try out some of these music boxes and even buy one as a souvenir to take home.

The museum also hosts an exhibition on the history of music boxes. The exhibition showcases how music boxes were developed and how they evolved through time. It's an informative and fascinating insight into the world of music boxes. Visitors can also watch a demonstration on how music boxes are made by skilled craftsmen.

In addition to the music boxes, the museum also has a gift shop that sells a wide range of souvenirs and handicrafts. These souvenirs include music boxes, glassware, and traditional Japanese dolls. You can also buy Japanese sweets and snacks from the gift shop.

Overall, the Otaru Music Box Museum is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Otaru. It's a unique experience that you won't find anywhere else. The museum's collection of music boxes is unparalleled, and the exhibitions provide a great learning experience. A trip to the museum is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. So, don't forget to add the Otaru Music Box Museum to your itinerary when you visit Otaru.

Skiing at Tenguyama Ski Resort

For ski enthusiasts, the Tenguyama Ski Resort in Otaru is a dream destination. Located on Mount Tengu, the resort is easily accessible via cable car, which takes visitors on a scenic ride up the mountainside.

With over 1000 meters of vertical drop and 15 runs spread over 130 acres, Tenguyama offers something for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Beginners can enjoy the gentle slopes near the bottom of the mountain, while pros can challenge themselves on the steeper terrain at the top.

One of the unique features of Tenguyama is its night skiing. The resort is open until 9 pm, allowing visitors to hit the slopes after a day of exploring the charming town of Otaru. The view of the town and the sea from the top of the mountain at night is breathtaking, making this a must-do experience for anyone visiting Otaru in winter.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Tenguyama offers a range of other winter activities, including snowshoeing and tubing. There's also a small ice rink near the base of the mountain, perfect for families with young children.

After a day on the slopes, visitors can relax at the resort's onsen hot spring bathhouse, which offers stunning mountain views. There's also a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine on the premises.

Overall, Tenguyama Ski Resort is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Otaru in winter. With its excellent terrain, stunning views, and range of activities, it's the perfect place to experience the magic of Japan's snowy season.

Walk through the Sakaimachi shopping district

If you're planning a trip to Otaru, make sure to schedule some time to explore the Sakaimachi shopping district. This charming area is full of historic buildings that have been converted into gift shops, cafes, and specialty stores.

One of the highlights of the Sakaimachi district is its glassware shops. Otaru is well-known for its glassware production, and several shops in the district sell beautiful, handcrafted items. You can watch skilled artisans at work, or browse a selection of glass bowls, vases, and figurines.

Another must-visit spot in the district is the Otaru Music Box Museum. This museum houses a large collection of music boxes, from small handheld versions to larger tabletop models. You can even create your own music box by choosing a tune and decorating the box yourself. This is a fun and unique souvenir to take home.

As you walk through the district, keep an eye out for the historic canal that runs through the center. At night, the canal is lit up with restored gas lamps, creating a romantic ambiance. You can also take a canal boat ride and admire the district from a different perspective.

When you're ready for a break, head to one of the district's charming cafes. You'll find several options, ranging from traditional Japanese tea houses to French-style bakeries. Relax with a cup of tea or coffee and a sweet treat, and soak up the ambiance of this picturesque district.

Overall, a walk through the Sakaimachi district is a must-do for anyone visiting Otaru. You'll find unique souvenirs, beautiful glassware, and plenty of photo ops along the way. Don't miss it!

Visit the Otaru Aquarium

Characteristic	Description
Name	Otaru Aquarium
Type	Aquarium in Otaru, Japan
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 5,185
Address	3 Chome-303 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan
Phone	+81 134-33-1400
Hours	Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Otaru, a small port town in northern Japan, is known for its scenic beauty and unique attractions. One of the must-see attractions in Otaru for travelers is the Otaru Aquarium. This aquarium is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Hokkaido region of Japan, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The Otaru Aquarium is located in the Isaribi district of Otaru, just a few minutes' walk from the railway station. This modern and well-maintained aquarium showcases the marine life of the northern Pacific Ocean in a uniquely designed facility. The aquarium features a variety of marine creatures, including sea otters, harbor seals, giant pacific octopuses, and many other species that are found in the coastal waters of Hokkaido.

One of the highlights of the Otaru Aquarium is the dolphin show. This show features trained dolphins that perform acrobatic tricks and display their intelligence and agility to the audience. The show is a great hit among children and adults alike, and it's a rare opportunity to witness these intelligent creatures up close.

Another attraction of the Otaru Aquarium is the penguin parade. Visitors can watch the penguins waddle and frolic from a close distance. It's a heartwarming experience to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.

The aquarium is not just a place for entertainment, but it's also a center for research and conservation of marine life. The aquarium conducts various research projects and offers educational programs for visitors, especially for children, to raise awareness about the fragile ecosystem and conservation of marine life.

In conclusion, a visit to the Otaru Aquarium is a must for anyone traveling to Otaru. This unique and well-maintained aquarium provides an excellent opportunity to see a wide variety of marine life up close, learn about marine conservation and research, and be entertained by the amazing dolphin shows and penguin parades.

Take a ride on the Otaru Mountain Railway

If you're looking for a unique way to experience the stunning Otaru scenery, taking a ride on the Otaru Mountain Railway is the way to go. This charming railway line runs from Otaru station to the foot of Mount Tengu, and it offers a one-of-a-kind journey that is sure to be unforgettable.

The Otaru Mountain Railway, which is also known as the Tenguyama Ropeway, was first opened in 1926. Initially, the railway was built to transport coal from the Tenguyama mine to Otaru Port. Today, though, it mainly serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors an opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of Otaru and the surrounding mountains.

The journey on the Otaru Mountain Railway starts at Otaru station, where you board a quaint wooden train. The train takes you through the city and up into the mountains, passing through tunnels, over bridges and through beautiful forests. The journey is serene and peaceful, and there are plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the breathtaking scenery.

Once you reach the end of the railway line, you can take a cable car to the top of Mount Tengu. At the summit, you'll have panoramic views of Otaru and the Sea of Japan, and you can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, skiing, and tobogganing.

One of the best things about the Otaru Mountain Railway is the fact that it offers visitors a chance to see a different side of Otaru that they may not get to see otherwise. The journey through the mountains and forests is a reminder of the city's natural beauty, and it's a perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overall, if you're looking for a unique way to explore Otaru, taking a ride on the Otaru Mountain Railway is a must-do. With its charming wooden trains, stunning views of the city and the sea, and a range of activities at the summit of Mount Tengu, it's an experience you won't forget.

Enjoy hot springs at Asarigawa Onsen

Otaru, a small port town situated in Hokkaido, Japan is home to a plethora of hot springs - the most popular of which is Asarigawa Onsen. The hot springs, which have been in operation since the 1800s, offer a unique and relaxing way to explore Otaru's natural beauty and rich culture.

The name Asarigawa Onsen is derived from the Asari River, which is known for having some of the purest water in Japan. The mineral-rich hot springs offer many health benefits, including relieve from muscle pain, arthritis, and respiratory disorders. The hot spring waters are also known to have skin rejuvenating properties.

Visitors can choose from various hot spring facilities in Asarigawa Onsen, each offering a different experience. These options range from the minimalist, DIY-style public baths to luxurious resorts. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can opt for an open-air bath (rotenburo), gender-segregated indoor baths, or private baths.

One thing that sets Asarigawa Onsen apart is the stunning views of the surrounding nature, particularly in the autumns and winters months when the mountains are covered in snow. The onsen's location provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy hot springs while admiring the serene landscapes.

Aside from the onsen, Asarigawa also has many other attractions to offer. During the day, you can explore the city's canal, visit historical sites such as Otaru Museum, and shop for souvenirs in the many local stores. Also, don't forget to try out the region's famous seafood- Otaru prawns, and sushi topped with fresh salmon and seafood are highly recommended.

In conclusion, Asarigawa Onsen is a must-visit spot in Otaru, beloved for its mineral-rich hot springs and magnificent views. Whether you prefer traditional public baths or luxurious private facilities, there's something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, make sure to include Otaru and Asarigawa Onsen on your list and get ready for a unique experience.

See the Sakaimachi Street Snow Festival

Otaru, a lovely port city in Japan, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience the best of Japanese culture and traditions. One of the most exciting things to see in Otaru is the annual Sakaimachi Street Snow Festival. This festival is a great way to get a glimpse of Japanese winter culture, and it takes place every year in February.

Sakaimachi Street is a historic district in Otaru and is home to many traditional shops and restaurants. During the festival, the street is covered in snow, and hundreds of snow sculptures are created. These sculptures range from small, intricate designs to massive, towering structures that reach several feet high.

Many of the sculptures are created by local schoolchildren, who take part in a snow sculpting competition held during the festival. Visitors can walk along the street, admiring the artistry on display and taking pictures of the stunning sculptures. The festival is a great chance for visitors to learn more about Japanese snow culture and winter traditions.

If you are planning to visit the Sakaimachi Street Snow Festival, it's best to dress warmly since it can be quite chilly in Otaru during the winter season. You can also enjoy the local delicacies such as seafood, sushi, and ramen served in many of the nearby restaurants.

Overall, the Sakaimachi Street Snow Festival is a unique and vibrant experience that showcases the best of Japanese winter culture. It's an event that you don't want to miss if you plan to visit Otaru during the winter season. So, be sure to put it on your bucket list and experience the joy and beauty of winter in Japan!

Explore the Otaru City Museum

One of the most interesting places to visit while in Otaru is the Otaru City Museum, located in the heart of the city. The museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and heritage of Otaru and its people.

Explore the museum's exhibits and you will be transported back in time to the Edo period, where you can learn about the life and customs of the local people. The museum has on display various artifacts like traditional clothing, tools, pottery, and other household items that were used by the locals in the past. There are also exhibits featuring the city's rich history including the fishing industry, the railway system, and the development of the city to its current state.

The Otaru City Museum is also a great place for art lovers. The museum has a well-curated collection of art pieces by local artists, which reflects the city's creative spirit and artistic expressions. Visitors can see the works of various artists, including well-known figures like Kiseki Nakamura and Koichi Nakamura.

The museum also has a beautiful garden outside, which visitors can explore and enjoy. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, with colorful flowers and small ponds filled with fish. Relax and enjoy the tranquility as you take in the beautiful surroundings.

The Otaru City Museum is open to visitors every day except Mondays and during the year-end holiday season. Visitors can buy tickets at the entrance or book online in advance. The museum also offers guided tours for individuals, groups, and school trips.

In conclusion, if you are looking to explore the history, culture, and art of Otaru, the Otaru City Museum is a must-visit destination. With well-curated exhibits, beautiful gardens, and knowledgeable guides, it's a great way to spend a fascinating day learning about the city's past and present.

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