Otaru Canal Half Day Stroll Course

The charms of the port town of Otaru are packed into a compact area. The cobbled canalside, glassware shops, the sound of music boxes, and fresh sushi can all be savored in half a day. With short walking distances, this course suits people who love wandering a town, couples, and first time visitors. Allow about five hours.

Course Route

10:00 Start at Otaru Station Begin the walk from the retro looking Otaru Station. Heading down the gentle slope from the front of the station, the townscape of a port town opens up before you.

10:20 Walk the former Temiya Line The traces of a railway that once carried freight remain as a walking path. Stroll along the rails and reflect on the railway history of Otaru.

10:50 Photos at the Otaru Canal Lined with stone warehouses, the canal is the symbol of Otaru. Walk slowly and take in the atmosphere, gazing at the warehouses and gas lamps reflected on the water.

12:00 Lunch on Sushiya Street Otaru is known as a town of sushi, and a street of long established sushi shops gathers near the canal. To enjoy fresh toppings, an early reservation is safest to avoid the crowded hours.

13:30 Stroll Sakaimachi Street A few minutes on foot from the canal, Sakaimachi Street is lined with sweets and souvenir shops. Take your time, snacking and browsing as you go.

14:00 Glasswork at Kitaichi Glass At this long established glass shop, which began by making oil lamps, browse colorful vessels and lamps. Some halls offer a cafe or a glass making experience.

15:00 Finish at the Otaru Music Box Hall Head to this huge music box shop at the Merhen crossing. Wrapped in gentle melodies, you might choose one as a memory of the trip.

Highlights

- The retro scenery of the Otaru Canal with its stone warehouses and gas lamps - Fresh sushi on Sushiya Street, the pride of Otaru - Colorful glasswork lining the shelves of Kitaichi Glass - The gentle sound of music boxes at the Merhen crossing

Access and Tips

- It is an easy day trip from Sapporo by train - The sights cluster within walking distance of the station, so you can explore without a car - There are slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended - Gas lamps light up the canal after sunset, so stay into the evening for a magical scene

A Quick Tip

Start in the morning and stay until evening to enjoy two faces of the town, the daytime bustle and the gas lamp lit canal at dusk. Sushi shops are popular, so book lunch in advance to skip the wait.