This guide is for travelers seeking canal charm and fresh sushi. It answers: “What to do in Otaru?”
Quick Facts
- Best for: Sushi lovers, romantic getaways, glass art fans
- Time needed: Half day to full day
- Access: 30-50 min from Sapporo by JR
- Day trip: Easy day trip from Sapporo
Overview
Otaru is a charming port town famous for its historic canal, glasswork, and some of Japans best sushi. Once a major herring fishing port, the preserved warehouses now house shops and restaurants.
Top Attractions
Otaru Canal
The iconic gas-lit canal lined with stone warehouses. Most photogenic at dusk and evening. Walking path along both sides.
Sushi Street (Sushiya-dori)
Street with numerous sushi restaurants serving ultra-fresh Hokkaido seafood. Some of Japans best sushi at reasonable prices.
Glass and Music Boxes
Otaru is famous for glass crafts. Kitaichi Glass and LeTAO offer shopping and workshops. Music Box Museum has 25,000+ items.
Tips
- Timing: Arrive afternoon, enjoy sushi dinner, see canal at night.
- Winter: Snow Light Path festival in February.
Getting There
From New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Recommended (Mid-range): Take the 🟢 JR Rapid Airport train directly from New Chitose Airport Station to Otaru Station in approximately 75–85 minutes. The station is located on the basement floor of the Domestic Terminal; passengers arriving at the International Terminal should use the connecting walkway to reach the station. This direct service eliminates the need to transfer at Sapporo. Budget: Highway buses are available but generally take longer (approximately 90–100 minutes) depending on traffic.
From Major Stations
- From Sapporo Station: Take the 🟢 JR Hakodate Main Line (Rapid Airport service) to Otaru Station in approximately 30–35 minutes. Local trains are also available but take approximately 45–50 minutes.
Local Access
Otaru Station is the central transport hub for the city. The famous Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street are approximately a 8 to 10-minute walk straight down the main street from the station exit. For attractions further afield like the Otaru Aquarium, local buses depart from the terminal in front of the station. IC cards such as Kitaca, Suica, and PASMO are accepted on JR trains and most buses within the city.
Sources
- Tourism board: Otaru Tourism
Last updated: 2026-02-03