OTARU ITINERARY (DAY TRIP WINTER) + TOURIST SPOTS 2026

Otaru thrived as one of the greatest port towns of Japan, blissfully located on northern island of Hokkaido. Water still gives it a unique character, such as the beautifully-preserved Otaru Canal fringed by historic warehouses exuding a relaxed, old-world appeal.

Once a major trading hub, Otaru today beautifully blends Meiji-era architecture with cozy cafes, glass workshops, art and music box museums. It is especially famous for fresh seafood, sushi, and sweet treats. And during winter, Otaru transforms into a magical winter wonderland when snow blankets the streets and lanterns light up the canal.

SAPPORO TO OTARU

Compact, scenic, and romantic, Otaru makes a perfect day trip from Sapporo. Here’s a brief Otaru travel guide from Sapporo.

BY RAPID TRAIN

1. From Sapporo Station. Ride the Rapid Train to Otaru. Fare is ¥1,640 (₱615). Travel time is roughly 36 minutes.
2. Get off at Otaru Station.
3. Walk to Otaru Canal about 800 meters ( roughly 11 minutes). You’ll pass by Miyako Dori Shopping Street, check it out.

Travel Tips: You can use your Japan IC Cards such as Kitaca, Suica, Pasmo & ICOCA to pay for the train. You can also use your Hokkaido Rail Pass. You can buy them in advance through the links below.

✅JAPAN IC CARD: BUY HERE OR RESERVE HERE

✅JR SAPPORO-FURANO RAILPASS (4 DAYS): BUY HERE OR RESERVE HERE

✅HOKKAIDO RAILPASS: BUY HERE OR RESERVE HERE

BY LOCAL TRAIN

1. Hop on an Otaru-bound local train from Sapporo Station. Fare is ¥800 (₱300).Travel time is about 45 minutes.
2. Alight at Otaru Station.
3. Walk to Otaru Canal about 800 meters ( roughly 11 minutes). You’ll pass by Miyako Dori Shopping Street, check it out.

BY BUS

1.Take the bus to Otaru from Kita 8 Jo Nishi 1 Chome. Use Google Maps. Fare is ¥730 (₱274). Travel time is roughly 1 hour.

2. Alight at Otaru Ekimae Bus Terminal. 12^th stop.

3.Walk for about 1 minute to Otaru Station.

4.Walk to Otaru Canal about 800 meters ( roughly 11 minutes). You should pass by Miyako Dori Shopping Street, you can check it out.

BY TOUR PACKAGE

I understand that some tourists are hesitant to do DIY Otaru or go on commute, we have different styles of traveling, and I respect that. So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free way of exploring Otaru, you can join some group tours organized by local travel operators and you can book this through the links below. 

✅Great Buddha Head + Jozankei Onsen + Otaru + Shiroi Kobito: RESERVE HERE

✅Otaru Day Tour + Noboribetsu Tour: BOOK HERE OR RESERVE HERE

✅Otaru + Bibai Snow Playground + Shiroi Kobito: BOOK HERE

✅Otaru + Cape Kamui + Shiroi Kobito Park: RESERVE HERE

OTARU TOURIST SPOTS & THINGS TO DO

Most of the top tourist attractions in Otaru are reachable by foot from Otaru Station, which makes this popular town pretty easy to explore. Consult Google Maps for directions.

1.MT.TENGU ROPEWAY

photo provided by Klook

Mt. Tengu Ropeway is an exciting blend of adventure, scenery, and tranquility.  As the cable car rises above the mountain, the chaos of the city slowly fades and is replaced by fresh wind and breath-snatching views of the hills, valleys, and sea. The ride on the Mt. Tengu Ropeway offers a unique perspective of the region, making it more than just a transportation, but an experience in itself.

• Tengu Ropeway
• Address: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location: 43°10’19.7″N 140°58’20.0″E
• Open Hours: Daily 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: No entrance fee but there’s a fee to ride the ropeway. See the link below.
• How to get to Mt. Tengu Ropeway: From Otaru Station, exit the station and walk to Otaru Eki-mae Bus Terminal (Otarushi) in front of the station. Ride the Chuo Bus#9 Tenguyama Line to Tenguyama Ropeway. Travel time is roughly 20 minutes, bus fare is ¥240 (₱91). Walk to Mt. Tengu Ropeway base station for about 1 minute and ride the Mt. Tengu Ropeway to the Observation Deck for about 5 minutes. Book in advance the roundtrip Mt Tengu Ropeway ticket through the link below.

✅MT. TENGU ROPEWAY (roundtrip): BUY TICKETS HERE OR RESERVE HERE

✅ YOICHI, OTARU + SHIROI KOBITO+ MT. TENGU TOUR: RESERVE HERE

2.OTARU CANAL

Otaru Canal is arguably the most popular tourist spot in Otaru, a charming waterfront area in Otaru, Hokkaido, known for its nostalgic atmosphere & beautifully preserved warehouses. Built in the early 20^th century, the canal once played a strategic role in the city’s trading and shipping industry. Today, the old stone buildings have been rehabilitated into cafes, shops, and museums, making it a unperturbed spot for a leisurely stroll.

The canal is especially popular at sunset and in the evening, when gas lamps light up the water and create a romantic, old-town feel. In winter, the area becomes even more enchanted during the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, with lanterns glittering along the canal.

Visitors can experience the cruise along the Otaru Canal, which takes about 40 minutes. The current rates of the Otaru Canal Cruise vary depending on the time of the day (Day vs. Night) and the season.

• Otaru Canal
• Address: Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location: 43°11’57.0″N 141°00’07.7″E
• Open Hours: Daily 24/7
• Otaru Canal Entrance Fee: FREE
• Otaru Canal Cruise Fare: See prices below.
• How to get to Otaru Canal: About 14 minute-walk from Otaru Station. You may also take a bus and reach the canal in about 2 minutes.

OTARU CANAL CRUISE RATES 2026

 Here’s the Otaru Canal Cruise rates for winter 2026:

OTARU CANAL CRUISE SCHEDULE 2026

Here’s the Otaru Cruise Schedule for winter 2026:

Important:

• Assembly time is 15 minutes before schedule departure.
• Purchase tickets at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Ticket center is next to the Chuo Bridge on the Otaru Canal.
• Cruises may be cancelled because of bad weather.
• For private cruise, make a reservation at least 10 days in advance.
• No parking facilities. Make use of the nearby paid-parking facilities.

3. OTARU DENUKI KOJI

Otaru Denuki Koji is a popular food alley in Otaru that is designed like a Taisho-era street (early 1900’s).  It is oozing with small restaurants and izakaya housed in old-fashioned wooden buildings. Otaru Denuki Koji is a popular food trip spot known for its sushi, seafood (uni/sea urchin, scallop), miso ramen, jingisukan (grilled lamb), zangi (Hokkaido fried chicken), Kaisen-don, and izakaya snacks. Most places here accepts cash only, so make sure to stack up some cash.

• Otaru Denuki Koji
• Address: 1-Chome-1 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location: 43°11’50.8″N 141°00’10.0″E
• Open Hours: Restaurants here generally operate daily from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM for lunch & 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner.
• Otaru Denuki Koji Entrance Fee: FREE
• How to get to Otaru Denuki Koji: About 14 minute-walk from Otaru Station. And about 4-minute walk from Otaru Canal. Use Google Maps for directions.
• Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Otaru Eki mae Bus Terminal (about 1 minute walk from Otaru Station) and get off at Chuo Dori (Otarushi). Travel time is roughly 2 minutes and bus fare is ¥240 (₱91). Walk for about 9 minutes to Otaru Canal.

  4. SAKAIMACHI STREET (SAKAIMACHI DORI)

 Sakaimachi Dori is a historic shopping street near Otaru Canal stretching through a row of  well-preserved old warehouses converted into shops, museums, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can stroll at a relaxed paced here and sample local treats such cheesecakes, buttered sandwiches and chocolates. Also check out the handmade glass shops and music box museum here.

• Sakaimachi Street
• Address: Sakaimachi Street, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location: 43°11’50.8″N 141°00’10.0″E
• Open Hours: Daily 24/7 but shops, museums, and cafes here generally operate daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Otaru Sakaimachi Street: FREE
• How to get to Otaru Denuki Koji: About 23 minute-walk from Otaru Station. And about 4-minute walk from Otaru Canal. Use Google Maps for directions.
• Alternatively, you can also take a bus (there are different buses you can ride, consult Google Maps) from Otaru Eki mae Bus Terminal (about 1 minute walk from Otaru Station) and get off at Hanazono Koen Dori (1^st stop) or Irifune Jujigai (4^th stop). Travel time is roughly 3 minutes and bus fare is ¥240 (₱91). Then walk for about 14 minutes to Sakaimachi Street.

5.OTARU MUSEUMS + SHOPS

Otaru preserves its past through beautifully-restored historic buildings that now house museums dedicated to banking, railways, natural history, art and local culture. From the elegant former building of Bank of Japan, to interactive railway exhibits and glass art collections. Otaru’s museums offers visitors a deeper look into the city’s unique blend of tradition and creativity. Exploring these museums is an ideal way to understand Otaru beyond its famous canal and enjoy a relaxed, cultural travel experience.

Here are some of Otaru’s museum that you can explore. Most are conveniently located near Otaru Station and Otaru Canal.

• OTARU CITY MUSEUM
• Address: 1-3-6 Temiya Otaru City, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS: 43°12’41.5″N 141°00’04.7″E
• Open Hours: Daily 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Main Building (Railway/History Section) Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥400 (₱151), Winter: ¥300 (₱114)
• High School Students & City Residents, 70 y.o +: ¥200 (₱76), winter ¥150 (₱57)
• Junior High School Students & Younger: FREE
• Canal Hall (History & Nature) Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥300 (₱114)
• High School Students & City Residents, 70 y.o +: ¥150 (₱57)
• Junior High School Students & Younger: FREE
• Combined Ticket (Main Building + Canal Hall + Other Museums):
• Adults: ¥600 (₱227)
• High School Students & City Residents, 70 y.o+: ¥300 (₱114)
• Junior High School Students & Younger: FREE

• OTARU MUSIC BOX MUSEUM
• Address: 4-1 Sumiyoshico, Otaru City, Japan
• GPS: 43°11’27.8″N 141°00’28.2″E
• Open Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: FREE (Fees apply if you join special activities like music box workshops or attend certain mini concerts)

• OLD BANK OF JAPAN MUSEUM
• Address: 1-11-16 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS: 43°11’47.3″N 141°00’01.6″E
• Open Hours: April-Nov: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Dec-March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed on Wednesday, Year-End and New Year
• Entrance Fee: FREE

• OTARU STAINED GLASS MUSEUM
• Address: 1-2-17 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS: 43°11’53.9″N 141°00’08.1″E
• Open Hours: May-Oct: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Nov – April: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed every Wednesday
• Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥1,200 (₱454)
• University Students: ¥1,000 (₱379)
• High School Students: ¥700 (₱265)
• Junior High School Students: ¥500 (₱189)
• Elementary Students: ¥300 (₱114)

• NITORI MUSEUM OF ART
• Address: 1-3-1 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS: 43°11’50.8″N 141°00’07.3″E 
• Open Hours: May-Oct: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Nov – April: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed every Wednesday
• Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥1,200 (₱454)
• University Students: ¥1,000 (₱379)
• High School Students: ¥700 (₱265)
• Junior High School Students: ¥600 (₱227)
• Elementary Students: ¥300 (₱114)

• HOUSE OF WESTERN ART
• Address: 6-5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido
• GPS: 43°11’52.9″N 141°00’12.9″E
• Open Hours: May-Oct: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Nov – April: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed every Wednesday
• Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥1,200 (₱454)
• University Students: ¥1,000 (₱379)
• High School Students: ¥700 (₱265)
• Junior High School Students: ¥600 (₱227)
• Elementary Students: ¥300 (₱114)

 6. OTARU MIYAKODORI SHOPPING STREET 

 Miyakodori (Miyako-dori) is a long, historic shopping arcade with a retro, downtown atmosphere that pretty much reflects Otaru’s history as a busy port and commercial center. It is one of Otaru’s main traditional shopping streets featuring local crafts and souvenirs, glassware, sweets, wines, cafes, restaurants, small weekend markets, and more.  You’ll pass by this arcade on your way to Otaru Canal from Otaru Station. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll through local life and culture.

• Otaru Miyako-dori Shopping Street
• Address: Inaho, 2-Chome, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location: 43°11’52.4″N 140°59’46.9″E
• Open Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Otaru Miyako-dori Shopping Street Entrance Fee: FREE
• How to get to Otaru Denuki Koji: About 4 minute-walk from Otaru Station

 7. OTARU ASARIGAWA

Asarigawa Onsen is a peaceful hot spring area, about 20 minutes from central Otaru, that is surrounded by forested hills and the gentle flow of the Asarigawa River. It’s an ideal escape for travelers looking to relax while staying close to the city. The area is known for its natural hot springs, traditional ryokan, and modern Onsen hotels, many offering open-air baths with seasonal views.

In winter, nearby Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort adds to its appeal , while warmer months highlight fresh greenery and autumn colors. Easy to reach from JR Otaru Station, Asarigawa Onsen offers a classic Hokkaido Onsen experience, which is quiet, scenic, and rejuvenating.

• Otaru Asarigawa
• Address: 2-670 Asarigawa Onsen, Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
• GPS Location:43°08’44.6″N 141°02’10.4″E
• Open Hours: Daily use bathing 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Otaru Asarigwa Onsen Entrance Fee:
• Adults: ¥800 (₱303)
• Children (elementary): ¥400 (₱151)
• Preschoolers: ¥100 (₱38) – ¥150 (₱57)
• How to get to Otaru Asarigawa Onsen & Asarigawa Ski Resort: From JR Otaru Station, go to the Otaru Eki-mae (Otarushi) Bus Terminal in front. Ride the Chuo Bus No, 13-16 to Asarigawa Onsen. Get off at Onsen Minami. Fare is ¥410 (₱155) and travel time is about 35 minutes. Walk to Asarigawa Onsen Hotel for about 3 mins or to the Asarigawa Ski Resort for about 13 minutes.

✅ ASARIGAWA SKI RESORT LIFT: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

OTARU SIDETRIPS

✅ Hokkaido 1 Day Tour: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

✅ Niseko + Lake Shikotsu + Toya + Noboribetsu Tour: RESERVE HERE

✅ Sapporo TV Tower:  BUY TICKETS HERE OR BOOK HERE

✅ Mt. Moiwa Ropeway (Sapporo): BUY TICKETS HERE OR BOOK HERE

✅ Shiro Kobito Park (Sapporo): BUY TICKETS HERE

✅ Jozankei Onsen (Sapporo): RESERVE HERE

WHERE TO STAY IN OTARU

If it’s your first time visiting in Otaru during winter, here are some great areas  and hotel options that are ideal especially if you want convenience, easy transport, and snowy city vibes!

Book your Otaru and Sapporo Accommodation at Agoda or via Klook, use my promo codes below for up to 10% discount. I also included a link below where you can compare the hotel rates via TripAdvisor, you can book through those booking platforms as well.

✅Agoda Promo Code: SOLOAGODA  (Redeem Discount  Code Here)

✅Klook Promo Code: SOLOKLOOK

• Otaru Tap Room & Hostel
• Location: Otaru Station
• Nearest Subway Station: Otaru Station (10 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Otaru Green Hotel (The Green Otaru Main Building)
• Location: Otaru Station
• Nearest Subway Station: Otaru Station (5 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Hotel Sonia Otaru
• Location: Otaru Station
• Nearest Subway Station: Otaru Station (12 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO

If it’s your first time visiting in Sapporo during winter, here are some great areas  and hotel options that are ideal especially if you want convenience, easy transport, and snowy city vibes!

✅Agoda Promo Code: SOLOAGODA  (Redeem Discount  Code Here)

✅Klook Promo Code: SOLOKLOOK

 1. SAPPORO STATION AREA

Ideal for first-time visitors as it is close to major transport, shopping, dining, and sightseeing (Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower). Easy access to New Chitose Airport by train.

• Comfort Hotel ERA Sapporo North
• Location: Sapporo Station area
• Nearest Subway Station: Sapporo Station (7 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Emion Sapporo
• Location: Sapporo Station area
• Nearest Subway Station: Sapporo Station (7 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• The Gate Hotel Sapporo by Hulic
• Location: Sapporo Station area
• Nearest Subway Station: Sapporo Station (5 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

2.ODORI PARK

Staying near Odori Park puts you within walking distance of shopping, transportation, restaurants, and sights like the Sapporo TV Tower right in the park.

• Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
• Location: Odori Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Odori Station (8 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Richmond Hotel Sapporo Odori
• Location: Odori Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Odori Station (3 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Hotel Abest Sapporo
• Location: Odori Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Odori Station (5 min walk)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

3. SUSUKINO

Best for foodies and night owls. This entertainment district hums with restaurants, bars, izakayas, and nightlife until late. It’s safe and centrally located, with lots to explore on foot.

• Hotel Mystays Sapporo Susukino
• Location: Susukino area
• Nearest Subway Station: Susukino Station (7 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Tmark City Hotel Sapporo
• Location: Susukino area
• Nearest Subway Station: Susukino Station (7 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• APA Hotel Sapporo-Susukino-Ekimae
• Location: Susukino area
• Nearest Subway Station: Susukino Station (3 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

 4. NAKAJIMA PARK

If you prefer a calmer vibe with green space and a more local feel, Nakajima Park is a lovely choice. It’s still near Susukino/Odori and the city center by subway.

• Hotel Vista Sapporo – Nakajima Koen
• Location: Nakajima Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Nakajimakoen Station (3 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Hotel Resol Sapporo Nakajima Koen
• Location: Nakajima Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Nakajimakoen Station (2 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• Hotel Sho Sapporo
• Location: Nakajima Park area
• Nearest Subway Station: Nakajimakoen Station (2 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

HOTELS NEAR THE AIRPORT

• Chitose Airport Hotel
• Location: Chitose area
• Nearest Subway Station: Chitose Station (4 mins)
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

• MINN CHITOSE HOTEL
• Location: Chitose-shi Hokkaido
• Ideal for: those looking for hotels near the airport, or if you have an early flight
• Nearest MRT: Minami-Chitose Station (13 min walk), close to Chitose Airport
• Access: From New Chitose Airport, take the Rapid Airport MRT to Sapporo. Get off at Minami-Chitose Station (1^st stop, 3 min). Fare is ¥1,050 (₱401). Exit via North Exit. Walk for about 800 m (13 mins) to Minn Chitose Hotel.
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Chitose Outlet Mall Rera, Salmon Hometown Chitose Aquarium
• COMPARE RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

OTARU ITINERARY

OTARU DAY TRIP ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Otaru 1 day itinerary. This is perfect if you are planning a day trip to Otaru from Sapporo.

OTARU 1 DAY ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Otaru day trip itinerary from Sapporo with Mt. Tengu Ropeway.

ALSO READ:

MT. MOIWA ROPEWAY: HOW TO GET THERE

SAPPORO ITINERARY & BUDGET