The coast of Hokkaido in Japan is home to what was once a city of trade: Otaru. With its historical tokens still very much intact, the stunning canal that nourishes the city, and its quaint charm, the city welcomes visitors to revel in its abundant tourist offerings.
Otaru Canal
The most charming and prominent feature of Otaru is its canal. Once you arrive in the city, the first thing you must do is take a stroll along this stunning canal. It’s only 10 minutes away from the station. Give yourself at least an hour to explore the canal and the restaurants, cafes, and old warehouses surrounding it.
Planning your itinerary for the many things to do in Otaru? Choosing a centrally located hotel is a wise move. Luckily, there are various accommodation options nearby, including the prestigious Grand Park Otaru by Park Hotel Group.
Sakaimachi Street
Head to Sakaimachi Street for a taste of Otaru’s past. It’s a shopping street with ancient buildings. Some of these buildings go as far back as the 1800s. They’re very well preserved, giving you a glimpse of how it might have been back in the day.
Glass Making
Otaru’s glassware industry has a long history. Otaru did not receive the benefits of electricity quite so soon as its neighbouring regions. As a result, the locals had to rely on glass lamps to keep their homes lit. The once-thriving herring industry also had a hand in the glass industry of Otaru. Fishermen here used glass buoys to keep the net afloat.
These are now nothing more than historical facts, and glass lamps and buoys are no longer necessary. But the city hasn’t forgotten its past – there are still shops about, making and selling glassware; these shops offer workshops on glass making too.
Otaru Sushi Street
No visit to Japan is complete without trying sushi at its many sushi restaurants. Otaru has hundreds of sushi shops serving up piles of delectable sushi. Otaru Sushi Street, for example, has over 20 restaurants serving ocean-fresh sushi. While you’re here, don’t forget to visit one or more of these restaurants to try Japan’s very own culinary creation, Sushi!
