In winter, the snow-covered landscape transforms Otaru.

Located not far from Sapporo, Otaru is a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world visiting Hokkaido! Once the commercial hub of Hokkaido, Otaru has preserved many historical brick buildings, attracting tourists all year round. In summer, you can enjoy the leisurely holiday vibe of this port city, while in winter, the snow-covered landscape transforms Otaru into a fairytale-like European town. The Otaru Canal, one of the city's landmarks, is a must-see spot for all visitors! Stretching 1,140 meters to the sea, the Otaru Canal was once an important unloading route for merchant ships. After the port was renovated, the canal was transformed for tourism purposes. There are 63 uniquely designed gas lamps along the canal, which light up at sunset, creating a completely different atmosphere from the daytime. During the winter, the canal hosts the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, where the snow-covered scenery becomes even more enchanting. When visiting the Otaru Canal, don't forget to take a ride on the Otaru Canal Cruise. The scenery is different during the day and night, and the 40-minute boat ride offers a unique perspective of Otaru's beauty.