How to Make the Most of Your Trip to Otaru

 A port city in the Japanese island of Hokkaido, Otaru is a truly enchanting destination to visit for independent travellers, couples and families alike. Located beside Ishikari Bay and within easy reach of the capital, Sapporo, it provides insights into a rich heritage and is full of old-world charm that makes it an ideal place to explore. Here is a guide to help you prepare for a holiday to Otaru.

                                                        Img via Grand Park Otaru
                                    


Get to Know About the City

It's always good to read up about the destination beforehand. When it comes to Otaru, you can expect a city that has a rich history and features distinctive buildings that date back to the 19th and 20th centuries. Most of the main attractions can be found in the central area of Otaru and the great thing is, they are walking distance from each other. Apart from sightseeing, you can also look forward to savouring some fresh seafood dishes and delectable desserts which are also quite popular here!

Consider When to Visit

Otaru is a great year-round destination with both warm and cold weather. Summer is from June to September and the average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius, though it can get cold at night. Autumn arrives from October to November and temperatures begin to drop as the season goes on so pack winter wear.

Winter is in full effect from December to March and you can expect snow and sometimes sub-zero temperatures; amidst a winter wonderland, you can also visit the Snow Light Path Festival in February. Spring from April to May sees the cold weather dissipate and flowers bursts into bloom heralding the Cherry Blossom season.

Plan Your Transfers

Those arriving by air at the New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido can get to Otaru by way of the JR rapid train which is an express service that connects up with Otaru Station; the journey takes around 70 minutes and those staying at an Otaru hotel near Jr Station will be able to easily get to their property after they arrive. Alternatively, from the airport, you can take a highway bus (approximately 70 minutes), rent a car or hire a taxi or private car with a driver.

Explore the Otaru Canal

When it comes to sightseeing, arguably the main attraction in the city is the Otaru Canal. Ideally, be based at a hotel close to this site such as Grand Park Otaru so you can visit both during the day and at night. Dating back to 1923, this charming canal has a walkway along which you can enjoy a stroll amidst distinctive warehouses, some of which have been converted into cafes, museums and pubs. The area is lit up and transformed at night, a great time to take a cruise along the canal.

Make an Itinerary

Apart from the canal, there are many other attractions and things to do in Otaru so plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider visiting Sakaimachi Street with its Western-style buildings, glass workshops and Music Box Museum, the historical Nichigin-dori district and the buildings of the Otaru Art Base. Other highlights include the seafood market known as Sankaku Ichiba, Tanaka Sake Brewing Company, Otaru Museum and Otaru Aquarium, a family favourite.

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