[2024 Otaru Attraction] Travel Guide for Otaru Canal (Updated Sep)

Otaru Canal - A Glimpse into Otaru's Historical Scenery

Located in Hokkaido, Otaru is a port city surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing Ishikari Bay. The city retains a rich historical atmosphere, with the Otaru Canal being the most iconic tourist attraction. Built in 1923, the canal, though man-made, blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, making it an ideal place for strolling and leisure. Walking along the path beside the canal, you will see 63 gas lamps flickering at sunset on one side and preserved stone warehouses on the other, creating a romantic and nostalgic ambiance. These warehouses, built during the Taisho period, have now been converted into restaurants and commercial facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious food while soaking in the historical atmosphere. For a different perspective of the canal, consider taking a canal tour boat. The approximately 40-minute ride offers a full view of the canal's beauty and its many historical buildings. Guides accompany the tour, providing detailed explanations of the historical stories behind the sights and sharing the best photo spots. Don't miss the nighttime cruise after sunset, when the gas lamps and building lights reflect on the water, creating a mesmerizing scene. The scenery here is sure to captivate your heart, making it a perfect spot for a romantic date.

5 Things You Must Know When Traveling to Otaru, Japan!

"How are you? I'm fine." The most unmissable place in Hokkaido is Otaru. As the filming location of "Love Letter", this place has the most niche and quiet beauty in Hokkaido. / The first thing: "About Otaru" Otaru is a seaside town on the west coast of Hokkaido, Japan, This small town is covered with snow, It became popular because of the movie "Love Letter", and has become a must-visit place for many people when they come to Hokkaido. / The second thing: "Main attractions" Otaru is not big, there are not many attractions, and you can finish it in a day trip. 1、Otaru Canal: Famous because of Love Letter, the canal bank has been transformed into various craft shops, The retro brick warehouse is full of literary atmosphere. It is especially recommended to come here at night, and the restaurants and bars along the river are not to be missed. 2、Funaizaka: The slope where the postman rides a bicycle to deliver letters in "Love Letter", standing on a high ground, you can also overlook the beautiful sea in the distance, it is very suitable for taking pictures, the sea view + snow scene at a glance, full of literary sense. 3、Kitichi Dori: The busiest and most prosperous commercial street in Otaru, all kinds of handmade and gourmet dining, can be found here. 4、Fairy Tale Crossroad: The end of Kitichi Dori is Fairy Tale Crossroad, surrounded by Music Box Museum, hello kitty cafe, etc., a must-visit place for taking pictures. 5、Music Box Museum: A European-style retro building with a history of more than 100 years, it has collected more than 3,000 music boxes from all over the world, and it feels like a fairy tale world when you walk in! You can buy all kinds of music boxes here, and you can even customize the music and shape yourself. 6、hello kitty cafe: Just opposite the Music Box Museum, the first floor is a merchandise shop, and the second floor is a cafe. The hello kitty theme style is a place that girls like to check in. 7、Tengu Mountain: The night view of Tengu Mountain, along with the night view of Hakodate and the night view of Sapporo Moiwa Mountain, is known as the "Three Great Night Views of Hokkaido", and it is also the place where the heroine of "Love Letter" ran wildly in the snow. It is recommended to go in the afternoon, you can see the city view during the day, and you can also see a very dreamy night view at night~ 8、Asari: A seaside fishing village near Otaru, here are the sea, snow, and small villages, very quiet and literary, very suitable for taking pictures and checking in. / The third thing: "Recommended travel route" (JR train to Asari Station) Asari—(JR train to Otaru Minami Station)—Fairy Tale Crossroad—(walk)—Music Box Museum—(walk)—hello kitty cafe—(walk)—Kitichi Dori—(walk)—Otaru Canal—(walk)—Funaizaka—(No. 9 bus)—Tengu Mountain / The fourth thing: "Recommended food" 1、Masazushi: Filming location of "Love Letter", a very romantic restaurant 2、Zezaki Fisheries: All kinds of Hokkaido seafood are available 3、LeTAO Main Store: Biscuits and chocolates are very famous! 4、Kitakaro: Fairy Forest Annual Ring Cake / The fifth thing: "Transportation Strategy" The most convenient and fast way from Sapporo to Otaru is to take the JR train, the fare is 750 one way, and the time is about 36 minutes. For city travel, except for going to Asari or Tengu Mountain, you need to take a car, and the rest can be reached on foot.

Romantic Stroll at Otaru Canal

A romantic stroll at Hokkaido, Otaru Canal during our honeymoon in Winter. There’s a small Jingisukan store nearby that is affordable and worth a visit. One set of Lamb Steak costs less than SGD20. Visit if you’re nearby! #japan #hokkaidotravel #hokkaido #otaru #honeymoon

Romantic Otaru

#winter2022 #otaru Otaru is a romantic town that is easily accessible from Sapporo. The Otaru Canal in the port and the surrounding stone warehouses have much to tell of the city’s proud form of long ago, which paved the way to prosperity beyond Sapporo and the cultivation of Hokkaido. There are many historical buildings that still stand around the Otaru Canal from 100 years ago, which provide a nostalgic atmosphere that you can enjoy as you walk around. Here are some of the best places to check out during your visit.

Magical Otaru!

Otaru is a magical place that everything you see is so beautiful and unforgettable! This place are full of things to see and do! You can also explore some of Hokkaido’s finest food and fresh seafood here! Many of the warehouses, factories & mills are still there today, at the famous Otaru Canal! It’s just like a painting, everyone can take perfect picture here! Nowadays, Otaru also famous for it’s music boxes and any kind of Kitaichi glass products! So many picturesque and rich of history buildings are standing here awaiting travellers to take picture with them! I want can go back there once again on 2023 or maybe every year?! #2023travelwish #tripblazers #awesomepic #wintergetaway

#Otaru River nearby restaurant

Otaru (小樽) is a small harbor city, about half an hour northwest of Sapporo by train. Its beautifully preserved canal area and interesting herring mansions make Otaru a pleasant day trip from Sapporo or a nice stop en route to or from Niseko or the Shakotan Peninsula. From the early days of Hokkaido's colonization in the late 1800s, Otaru served as a major trade and fishing port. It was hence chosen as the terminal station of Hokkaido's first railway line that connected the port with nearby Sapporo. Many old warehouses and former office buildings by shipping and trade companies give Otaru's city center a special character reminiscent of past decades.

Otaru canal is probably the number one attraction that tourists come to Otaru for. The view is indeed nice, regardless during the day or at night, but do take note that as the sun sets, the crowd that gathers at the bridge could get quite big. Every one is nice enough to take turns to take photos and then leave though. #GiveThanks

Otaru in early autumn

Most people will do a day-trip to Otaru from Sapporo. However, I chose to stay one night at Otaru, Hokkaido. Managed to catch the night views of the famous Otaru canal as well as the early morning views while avoiding the crowd. The shops in Otaru normally open at around 10am and close pretty early by 5-6pm. Very scenic and nice to walk around on foot around the canal area and shops.

Hokkaido 5-Day Self-Drive Itinerary

Day 1: New Chitose Airport - Sapporo Upon arriving at New Chitose Airport, pick up your rental car and head straight to Sapporo. Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park, and don't miss the local ramen. In the evening, stroll around Tanukikoji Shopping Street to enjoy shopping and the lively night market atmosphere. 🎉 Day 2: Sapporo - Otaru Drive from Sapporo to Otaru, which takes about an hour. The Otaru Canal and historical buildings are stunning. Enjoy fresh seafood sushi and various snacks and desserts at Letao. Don't forget to visit the Otaru Music Box Museum and make your own music box. 🎶 Day 3: Otaru - Asahikawa Next, drive to Asahikawa, which takes about two hours. The animals at Asahiyama Zoo are incredibly cute! In the evening, try Asahikawa ramen, especially the popular "Santouka" ramen. 🍜 Day 4: Asahikawa - Furano - Biei Depart from Asahikawa to Furano to see the lavender fields (in summer). Then head to Biei to take some beautiful photos of the Blue Pond. The scenery is absolutely stunning! 📸 Day 5: Biei - Noboribetsu - New Chitose Airport On the last day, visit Noboribetsu to see Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and experience the hot spring culture. Then return to New Chitose Airport to conclude your delightful Hokkaido trip. 🌟

Otaru in Winter | Japan🇯🇵

Otaru is one of the most well-known sightseeing spots in all of Hokkaido and its point of pride is the Otaru Canal. Completed in 1923, the canal was used as a maritime transport route for the city. After it fell into disuse, it was revitalized as a popular tourist spot. From Sapporo There are multiple trains per hour between Sapporo and Otaru along the JR Hakodate Main Line. The one way trip costs 750 yen and takes 30 minutes by rapid train or 45 minutes by local train. About two trains per hour continue on to New Chitose Airport (70 minutes, 1910 yen one way). 📍Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan. #japantrip #otaru #otarutrip #otarucanal #Otaru_daytime_view #Otaru_nighttime_view #winter #wintersun #Winter2023

A Charming Canal with Touch of History🏯

Otaru Canal: A Quaint and Picturesque Gem in Hokkaido Nestled in the heart of the charming city of Otaru, the Otaru Canal is a tranquil waterway that exudes old-world charm and timeless beauty. Steeped in history and surrounded by scenic views, this iconic landmark offers visitors a glimpse into Otaru's rich maritime heritage and serves as a beloved destination for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration. ⭐️ Ambiance and Setting The Otaru Canal is a picturesque waterway lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings, warehouses, and cobblestone pathways. The canal's tranquil waters reflect the surrounding architecture, creating a mesmerizing scene that is especially enchanting during sunrise and sunset. Whether you visit during the bustling daytime or the serene evening hours, the canal's ambiance evokes a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. ⭐️ Scenic Walks and Attractions A stroll along the Otaru Canal offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery. Highlights of the canal area include: - Historic Warehouses: The canal is flanked by a row of historic warehouses that have been repurposed into charming shops, cafés, and museums. Explore these atmospheric buildings to discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fascinating exhibitions. - Canal Cruises: Experience the beauty of the canal from a different perspective by taking a leisurely boat cruise. These guided tours offer insights into the canal's history and architecture while providing stunning views of Otaru's waterfront. - Lantern-Lit Pathways: As dusk falls, the canal comes alive with the soft glow of lanterns that line its pathways. This magical atmosphere creates an unforgettable backdrop for romantic walks and nighttime photography. ⭐️ Culinary Delights No visit to the Otaru Canal is complete without indulging in Hokkaido's renowned culinary offerings. The area surrounding the canal is home to numerous restaurants, izakayas, and street vendors serving up delicious seafood dishes, fresh sushi, and creamy soft-serve ice cream. There’s also a lot of cute white bird as it is one of their mascot printed on their souvenirs. Be sure to try Otaru's famous seafood bowls (kaisendon) or sample local delicacies like grilled scallops and savory seafood. 💭 Final Thoughts The Otaru Canal is a true gem in Hokkaido’s crown, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural vibrancy. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, a visit to the Otaru Canal is sure to leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in its timeless allure, explore its hidden treasures, and savor the enchanting atmosphere that makes it one of Hokkaido’s most beloved destinations. #Japan #hokkaido #Otaru#오타루 #瑞生尖沙咀酒店

Otaru Canal: A Romantic Retro Vibe.

During the Meiji and Taisho eras, Otaru was the center of trade and commerce in Hokkaido. The red-brick warehouses along the Otaru Canal, which were in use at that time, have now been transformed into restaurants, craft rooms, and shops. The Otaru Canal still retains the coal lamps from those years, giving it a romantic and retro flavor. Whether you visit during the day or at night, you can see the different faces of the Otaru Canal. In addition to the famous Otaru Canal, the area's fresh seafood and hot springs are also well-known attractions.

Picturesque Otaru Canal

Tourists flocked to Otaru Canal when they travel hokkaido. The otaru canal is an ideal spot for peaceful stroll during the day and night and you can see the reflection of the warehouses from the water surface, hence good to take pretty pictures on a good weather. The warehouses have been transformed into interesting shops selling different goods and merchandise, making it a good shopping place as well! #cherryblossom2024

A fleeting glimpse of the bustle in Otaru, Hokkaido

Otaru, a port city in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, Japan, serves as the outer port of Sapporo, facing the Ishikari Bay. It is located in the western part of Hokkaido, facing the Ishikari Bay, and developed about 100 years ago as the maritime gateway of Hokkaido. It flourished to the utmost, with numerous banks and businesses flocking here to develop, and it was even called the 'Wall Street of the North'. The night in Otaru is so quiet, strolling on the streets, looking for local delicacies. 🌈 Transportation Tips Take a train from JR Sapporo Station to JR Otaru Station or JR Minami-Otaru Station, with a one-way fare of 750 yen, and a travel time of 30 minutes (rapid train) to 45 minutes (local train) 🌈 Otaru Highlights 1⃣️ In the past, the canal was crowded with numerous sampans loading and unloading goods, and the banks were lined with brick and stone warehouses, a scene of bustling activity. Today, these warehouse buildings have been converted into glass craft shops, teahouses, restaurants, and large stores. 2⃣️ In front of Otaru Station, you can take a public bus and then transfer to the Tengu Mountain Ropeway to reach the summit. This boundless world of mountains and sea covered in snow is one of the three major night views of Hokkaido. 3⃣️ Hokkaido Glass Pavilion, the Romantic Pavilion, and Otaru Canal, to be honest, are just average. A group of people from our country squatting on the thickly snow-covered riverbank, holding cameras towards the canal, muttering to themselves not knowing what to shoot 4⃣️ The much-anticipated Triangle Seafood Market closes after evening, and I didn't get to eat there. The popular restaurants concentrated across the canal are the next stop to look forward to. The seafood rice from Zazeki Marine Products, the robatayaki seafood from Tsurukichi. They are all small restaurants, with seating for 10 people, hard to get a seat.

A freezing trip with 15 pax of family.

We went to Hokkaido with a group of 15 pax family members. All of us enjoy the weather and snow very much. Pictures taken during our stay in The Canal Otaru. Such a amazing journey with lots of nice food and views. Kids are enjoying their snow and ice cream cake. The outdoor weather is cold enough to chill our ice cream cake from Baskin Robin. The ramen restaurant opposite the Canal is super good!! Small restaurant with chef and 1 worker. Traditional Japanese ramen that I’ll definitely go back to eat again. #otaru

A breathtaking view in Otaru Canal

#thingstodo Is Otaru Canal worth visiting? Otaru has always been a popular destination for Japanese locals, but has recently gained popularity with international visitors as well. The village was a rich trading post, and you can still see remnants of its old-time wealth in the varied architecture. I remember one of the Filipino movies “Kita-Kita” was filmed in Hokkaido and Otaru Canal was one of the unforgettable moment they had in the movie.

Classic one-day tour route to Tengu Mountain in Otaru, Hokkaido

9AM take the JR from Sapporo to Asari Station There are 'ordinary' and 'express' trains to Otaru, 'ordinary' 750 yen 💴 You must choose the 'ordinary' slow train! Only the slow train will stop at Kanhane and Asari, and you can start taking sea views from Kanhane If you want to see the sea, you must sit 👉 on the seat by the window on the right If you want to sit in a row of seats, you must choose the carriage with fewer people! This way you can take the same style as Spirited Away - Sapporo➡️Asari Station➡️Funamizaka➡️Triangle Market➡️Otaru Canal➡️Otaru Canal Cafeteria➡️Commercial Street➡️Tengu Mountain - 🚉Asari Station🌟🌟🌟🌟 Don't leave the station‼️You can take pictures of the sea and the station sign, walk across the overpass to the opposite station sign, the background is the sea🌊, I personally think it's very photogenic, after taking pictures, you can continue to Otaru by car About 15 minutes a car, don't worry, you can take your time to take pictures, when the car comes, just get on, no need to swipe your card again 🚉Otaru Station It's about a 10-minute walk from the station to Funamizaka 💙Funamizaka The filming location of 'Love Letter', a street leading straight to the sea, it will look very good when the weather is good 💙Triangle Market 💙Otaru Canal A very boring place, with some sense of age 💙Otaru Canal Cafeteria It's a converted warehouse, there's a lot of food inside 💙Commercial Street About 1 kilometer long, not very interested The melon ice cream is delicious😋 Avoid eating at Zeqi Aquatic Products❌❌ They treat Chinese people differently, the boss lady has a very stinky face, but if you can speak Japanese, she is very flattering, a bowl of seafood rice bowl 250+ still have to look at her stinky face, can't share! Suddenly feel like a fool, who is pushing this shop?! - 🚠Tengu Mountain🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🎫Cable car round trip ticket: 1600 yen 💴 The filming location of 'Love Letter' and 'First Love', very photogenic! Especially like it here, you can overlook the whole city🌆, known as one of the three best night views in Hokkaido Go up around 3 pm, you can take a lot of pictures, there is a lot of snow, you can also watch the sunset! Play until the lights are on, took a night view and left, around six o'clock, don't dare to stay too long, afraid to wait for the cable car for a long time, because there are only two cable cars😂 - ⚠️The bus has operating hours, the interval is long, it's cold at night in winter, it's recommended to take a taxi after the cable car comes down, we two people found two people to share a car down the mountain, the cost is cheaper than taking a bus, the key is that you can leave immediately! Take a 🚕 taxi directly to Otaru Station and return to Sapporo ⚠️The Tengu Mountain cable car will be suspended in bad weather, so it is recommended to check the weather before you go This route is very leisurely, because we both like to take pictures, spend more time taking pictures, but not in a hurry at all, and very photogenic

5 Things You Must Know About Otaru Canal!

When traveling to Otaru, the must-visit spot is Otaru Canal! Famous for the movie 'Love Letter', it has different views in four seasons, especially unique in winter. / The first thing: 'About Otaru Canal' The Otaru Canal is 1140 meters long and 20 to 40 meters wide, located in Otaru City, Japan. It is the only and oldest canal in Hokkaido, which is the same age as the history of Hokkaido's development, about more than 120 years. The Otaru Canal was initially used for loading and unloading goods, and now the canal bank has been transformed into various craft shops, many literary shops, and some warehouses converted into restaurants and bars. / The second thing: 'Main Check-in Points' 1. Canal Side: The first check-in location is the canal side, you can be on the bridge by the river, or on the embankment by the river. 2. Old Warehouse on the River Bank: The old warehouses here have become various style shops, Otaru Warehouse No. 1, known as the birthplace of Otaru beer, and Otaru Canal Canteen is a food street converted from a warehouse. 3. Otaru City Comprehensive Museum: Free, using the 'Old Otaru Warehouse' transformation, introducing the history and nature of Otaru, as well as the history of the development of the fishing industry. / The third thing: 'Recommended Play' 1. Check-in for photos: The Otaru Canal is a must-check-in for Otaru, and it is also a place where everyone who comes to Otaru will check in for photos. It is recommended to come and see both day and night, with different views. 2. Canal Tour: To tour the Otaru Canal, you can rent a bicycle, there are also rickshaw drivers in traditional costumes on the shore, and you can also take a sightseeing boat, the night view is particularly charming. / The fourth thing: 'Recommended Restaurant' There are many gourmet restaurants on both sides of the canal. 1. Skewer Bird Otaru's popular barbecue shop, chicken skewers, beef tongue are all must-order series, it's really great to have some skewers in winter. 2. Buckwheat House Century-old buckwheat seedling old shop, also a popular local shop, you can try tempura buckwheat noodles or curry buckwheat noodles. / The fifth thing: 'Transportation Strategy' The Otaru Canal is in the city center, about 400m down from JR Otaru.

Hokkaido In-depth Travel Guide

Hokkaido, a place full of romance and fantasy, is a travel destination that absolutely cannot be missed. 🌟Hokkaido - Central Region🌟 Sapporo Main attractions: Odori Park, White Lover, Tanukikoji Shopping Street, etc. Sapporo is the cultural and commercial center of Hokkaido, very suitable for the first-time free travelers to Hokkaido. You can taste delicious food, buy special products, and feel the charm of Hokkaido here. Otaru Main attractions: Otaru Canal, Music Box Museum, Kitaichi Glass, Tengu Mountain, etc. Otaru is the romantic city of Hokkaido and also the filming location of the movie 'Love Letter'. You can stroll along the canal and feel the unique romantic atmosphere here. 🌟Lake Toya Main attractions: Non-freezing Lake, Cruise, Volcano Hot Springs, Mt. Yotei, etc. Lake Toya is a volcanic lake that does not freeze even in winter. You can experience volcanic geothermal, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and also take a cruise on the lake. Noboribetsu Main attractions: Noboribetsu Hot Spring Street, Hell Valley, Bear Ranch, Ida Era Village, etc. Noboribetsu is a hot spring resort in Hokkaido. You can enjoy hot springs, taste delicious food, and also visit attractions such as Hell Valley. 🌟Hokkaido - Northern Region🌟 Furano Main attractions: Tomita Farm, Mori no Tokei Cafe, Fairy Terrace, etc. Furano is the land of lavender and colorful flower sea in Hokkaido, and you can also experience the fun of skiing here. This is a holy place for photography, you must go and feel it! 🌟Biei Main attractions: Biei Blue Pond, Shikisai no Oka, Patchwork Road, etc. Biei has a kind of European rural scenery, the water of the blue pond is blue, and it is a holy place for photography. Here you can experience a unique sightseeing route and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Asahikawa Main attractions: Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa Ramen Village, etc. Asahikawa is a small animal paradise in Hokkaido. You can get close to the cute penguins here. You can also taste the local specialty Asahikawa ramen. 🌟Hoshino Resort Main attractions: Water Church, Ski Resort, Smile Beach, etc. Hoshino Resort is a comprehensive resort with mature commercial facilities. You can experience various water activities and skiing fun here. 🌟Hokkaido - Eastern Region🌟 Kushiro Main attractions: Eating seafood at Washo Market, Lake Akan, Kushiro Wetland, etc. You can experience hot springs at Lake Akan and watch red-crowned cranes at Kushiro Wetland. You can also taste fresh seafood at Washo Market. Kushiro is a town in the eastern part of Hokkaido, with beautiful natural landscapes and rich outdoor activities. You can feel the charm of nature here, and also have close contact with cute red-crowned cranes. You must not miss the food and hot springs here!

Winter Whispers Along Otaru's Canal

#2024wish In January 2015, I embarked on an unforgettable trip to Otaru Canal, where the enchanting snowfall painted a picturesque scene. As I strolled along the canal's historic banks on a cloudy afternoon, the snowflakes gracefully adorned the cobblestone paths, creating a serene ambiance. The charming, century-old warehouses lining the canal added a touch of nostalgia, whispering tales of Otaru's maritime past. Lanterns cast a warm glow, reflecting off the pristine snow. It was a moment frozen in time. In 2024, I wish to go there again, reliving the magic of that wintry stroll and reconnecting with the timeless beauty of Otaru Canal.

Amazing day trip OTARU CANAL

Part of our early winter trip in Hokkaido, we took a limited express train to Otaru from Sapporo and was greeted with a rustic beauty! Just when we thought we have seen enough snow in a city, Otaru’s backdrop tops the snow in a city view! We were lucky to reach Otaru early and managed to beat the crowd to take nice photos on the snowy walk path along the famous Otaru Canal. There were so many food options but we had to opt for the delicious live seafood ! (Tips: survey around the few stalls, most stalls have a partner restaurant to cook the seafood for you) Those with kids do not need to worry as there are eateries and even the Otaru Arts Centre where you can browse some souvenir, get a drink or snack and seat while you take a break from the cold! Onsen lovers, be sure to take a bus to Yunohana Otaru Onsen , you know it’s amazing the moment you only see locals when you enter the Onsen building ! #2024wish

The Otaru Canal without snow is also equally romantic

Otaru Canal - one of the must-visit places in Hokkaido, famous for being the romantic filming location of the movie 'Love Letter', it's too romantic! It is said that Otaru Canal is the city of romance in Japan, and it is indeed true. As soon as you step into the Otaru Canal, it feels like you have entered a fairy tale world‼ The breeze brings bursts of fragrance. On both sides are European-style buildings and red brick houses, which are interestingly contrasted with the blue sky and white clouds. Walking along the canal, you can find different surprises at every corner. There are beautiful murals drawn by artists with colored pencils; there are old and exquisite small shops, selling a variety of unique handicrafts; there are also cafes and restaurants, offering delicious snacks and drinks. 🕖Opening hours: All day 💵Admission: Free ⌚Suggested visit duration: 1-3 hours

#timetotravelOtaruCanal in Hokkaido- experience this famous canal used as setting to many movies both local and international. taste Otaru’s finest deli and walk along the brick streets.

Otaru Canal & Firefighter Dog Bunko Statue

#wecreate When in Hokkaido, one attraction which is a must to visit is the Otaru Canal. It's a short river with some old warehouses but the view was amazing and the water was very clean. Beautiful to take a stroll and to take some pictures. There are also some Canal cruise which you can pay to take a short boat ride along the Canal area. As you walk down the Canal area, it feels relaxing and as you soak in the atmosphere, you will enjoy your time at this pretty Otaru Canal and bridge. Nearby the Canal are shopping streets but there is also a statue that stood out. This statue is very famous and it is called Firefighter Bunko Dog statue. Bunko became well known after he was rescued by firefighters and Bunko the dog would follow firefighters on their dispatch missions. It followed and helped a total of 1000 dispatch service. In commemoration of Bunko the dog, a statue had been made for his dedication to the firefighting team. If you are in Otaru, do visit these 2 attractions.

Romantic Charm: Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal in Hokkaido, Japan, is a picturesque waterway that exudes charm and history. Once a bustling trade route, it has transformed into a romantic destination lined with beautifully preserved brick warehouses. The canal's quaint ambiance is enhanced by the soft glow of gas lamps at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Strolling along its promenade, visitors can enjoy the sight of charming cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. During winter, the canal is adorned with twinkling lights, making it even more enchanting. Otaru Canal is a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering a serene and captivating experience for all who visit. #wecreate

Otaru! one of the most cutest city in Japan

Getting There - direst train from Sapporo Attractions - many museum Hotels - Torifito otaru canal Food & Restaurants - Minshuku Aotsuka Shokudou Shopping - Music box museum #otaru #museum #japan #hokkaido

Otaru during the winter ✨

#otaru #hokkaido #japan

Romantic Otaru, the filming location of the pure and beautiful love story "Love Letter".

❤️Recommendation reason: Do you want to go on a special date with your partner? Then come to Otaru in Hokkaido! ❄️This is the filming location for a pure and beautiful love story. There is the beautiful and bustling Otaru Canal at night. Vintage gas lamps on the roadside and magnificent buildings illuminated by lights. 👍Most recommended: Every February in winter, the "Snow Light Path" will light up the entire city of Otaru. The long-standing streets are shrouded in warm orange lights, one by one. Also added some warmth to the extremely cold climate of Hokkaido.

This spring, I miss Hokkaido immensely.

This spring. I miss it so much. Otaru Canal Furano's flower fields The trip to Hokkaido, Japan was several years ago. Remembering the weather and scenery of that time. Freshness in the air. The refreshing feeling of the wind blowing on the body. Mood became beautiful too. Hokkaido is a place with a very slow pace. There are few people, few houses, and few cars. There are plenty of mountains, waters, trees, flowers and grass. Photos taken with a mobile phone appear to have higher pixel density due to clean air.

Winter beauty

Otaru - this beautiful port city 40mins from Sapporo by train is worth making a day trip from during your trip to Hokkaido. Have some fresh seafood and visit local glass and music box museums when you’re at Otaru.