Hokkaido Otaru Day Trip | 5 Must-See Attractions/Food/Transportation Guide

Otaru is a must-visit destination for Hokkaido travel! This port city is renowned for its nostalgic European architecture, glass crafts, and fresh seafood. Following in Kinnso's footsteps, spend a day strolling through the classic attractions of Otaru Canal, Music Box Hall, and Kitaichi Glass Factory, savoring delicious food, and you will surely harvest a plethora of romantic memories!

Otaru is located on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido, about 30 kilometers from Sapporo. From Sapporo, you can choose the following ways to get there: * **JR:** Take the express train from Sapporo, it takes only 35 minutes to reach Otaru, which is the most convenient option. * **Bus:** Take the highway bus from Sapporo Bus Terminal, it takes about 1 hour to reach Otaru Station, the journey is longer than JR but the fare is cheaper. * **Car:** Driving from Sapporo along National Highway 5 to Otaru, it takes about 45 minutes. But parking spaces in Otaru city center are limited, and it's more difficult to park on holidays.

For those who love music boxes, you absolutely cannot miss "Otaru Music Box Hall"! This European-style building is Japan's first store specializing in the sale of music boxes. Inside, there are all kinds of music boxes, from miniature to large concert grand pianos. The hall also offers DIY experiences where you can assemble a unique music box with your own hands, which is very commemorative. Otaru Music Box Hall Address: 4-1 Sudachi-cho, Otaru, Hokkaido Hours: 9:00-18:00 Transportation: About a 7-minute walk from JR Otaru Station.

Mount Tengu is a symbol of Otaru and you can take a cable car to the summit at 532 meters above sea level to enjoy a panoramic view of Otaru City. The summit features an observation deck that offers a 360-degree view of Otaru Canal, Japan Sea, Mount Showa Shinzan, and other stunning landscapes. During winter, you can also experience the joy of skiing at the summit. At night, the twinkling cityscape of Otaru below is romantic and enchanting. Mount Tengu Cable Car Operating hours: 10:10-22:00 (4/29-11/3), 10:10-21:00 (11/4-4/28) Fee: 1,200 yen (round trip) Transportation: Accessible directly from the JR Nankō Building Station exit.

"Kitaichi Glass" is a well-known handcrafted glass workshop in Japan, famous for its colorful glassware. Strolling through the glass lampshade tunnel of No. 6 Gallery, the vibrant lamps hanging from the ceiling are a feast for the eyes. In addition, you can experience DIY glassblowing at Kitaichi Glass. Under the guidance of experienced craftsmen, you can personally blow a glass cup or small item and take home a cherished memory. Don't forget to pick out some exquisite glassware in the glass market as souvenirs. Their unique designs and vibrant colors are sure to impress your friends and family! Kitaichi Glass Address: 7-1 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido Business Hours: 8:45-18:00 (subject to seasonal adjustment) Transportation: A 15-minute walk from JR Otaru Station or take a bus to "Sakaimachi" station.

Sakaimachi Street is the most bustling shopping street in Otaru. Spanning 200 meters, it is lined with specialty shops such as glass products, music boxes, and cafes, exuding a nostalgic atmosphere. Must-visit stores include "Demae Koji," Kitaikan, and Fūjiki Kan. There are also many century-old shops here, such as Kinryu Coffee and Yamada Sushi. Transportation: A 12-minute walk from JR Otaru Station.

* LeTAO: A famous cheesecake shop, must-try are the half-baked cheesecakes and ice cream. * Rokkatei: A well-known Hokkaido brand for cookies and chocolate, a must-buy is the butter grape sandwich cookie. * Otaru Kuramaki: Hand-rolled sushi made with fresh seafood like grilled salmon, sea urchin, and scallop. Perfect for takeaway and eating on the go. * Taoyuan Crab: Offers various crab dishes such as crab pot and grilled crab, a paradise for crab lovers.

10:00 Depart from Sapporo Station on the JR Line, heading to Otaru (35 minutes).
10:35 Arrive at JR Otaru Station, stroll along Otaru Canal (1 hour).
11:35 Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum (1 hour).
12:35 Enjoy lunch on Sakaicho Street (1 hour).
13:35 Visit Kitaichi Glass to admire glass art (1 hour).
14:35 Take a cable car up Mount Tengu, overlooking the beautiful scenery of Otaru (1.5 hours).
16:05 Return to Sakaicho Street for souvenirs shopping (1 hour).
17:05 Back to JR Otaru Station, take the train back to Sapporo (35 minutes).
17:40 Arrive in Sapporo, concluding the Otaru day trip.

Otaru is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido, offering stunning attractions. From its retro streets and glass crafts to delicious snacks, it's full of charm. Kinnso recommends spending a day leisurely exploring Otaru to fully appreciate the city's nostalgic romantic atmosphere. However, as the main attractions are concentrated and transportation is convenient, even a half-day quick trip can provide a glimpse of Otaru's highlights. Regardless, after visiting, you will surely fall in love with its beauty!