Otaru is a charming seaside city located in Hokkaido, Japan. With its picturesque canals, historic warehouses, and old-world charm, Otaru is a great destination for travelers looking to experience a unique blend of culture and nature. From the stunning views of Ishikari Bay to the winding streets of the Otaru Canal, the city has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. From fresh seafood to historic temples, Otaru offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife, indulging in its exquisite cuisine, or simply relaxing on its tranquil beaches, Otaru has something for everyone.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Otaru Canal Area: This area is home to the iconic Otaru Canal, lined with old warehouses and bridges, and has become a popular tourist destination. It's a great place to wander around and check out the shops and restaurants that line the canal.
2. Sakaimachi Street: This is the main shopping street of Otaru and is famous for its historic buildings. Here you can find souvenir shops, traditional Japanese restaurants, and a variety of souvenirs.
3. Temiya Hot Spring: This hot spring is located near the Otaru Canal and is a great spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. It's especially popular in winter as it has outdoor baths with views of the canal.
4. Otaru Music Box Museum: This museum is dedicated to the music box industry, which was once a major industry in the city. It has a collection of over 10,000 music boxes, and visitors can try their hand at making a music box themselves.
5. Otaru Aquarium: This aquarium showcases a variety of sea creatures from the surrounding Sea of Japan. It also features a touch pool where visitors can interact with the sea life.
1. Otaru Canal: This scenic canal is lined with buildings from the Meiji era and is perfect for a romantic stroll.
2. Otaru Music Box Museum: This museum showcases a large collection of music boxes from around the world.
3. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival: This annual festival takes place in February and features illuminations of snow sculptures along the canal.
4. Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway: This cable car takes visitors up to the top of Mount Tengu for stunning views of the city below.
5. Temiya Cave: This small cave is located on the edge of the city and is home to beautiful rock formations and stalactites.
1. Sushi: Otaru is known for its sushi, made with fresh, local seafood.
2. Sashimi: Sashimi is a raw fish dish that is popular in Otaru. It is usually served with rice and soy sauce.
3. Ramen: Otaru is home to some of the best ramen in Japan. There are many varieties of ramen to choose from, including miso, shoyu, and tonkotsu.
4. Seafood Donburi: Donburi is a popular Japanese dish that consists of seafood served over rice. In Otaru, you can find donburi made with fresh, local seafood.
5. Takoyaki: Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food made with octopus, tempura bits, and various other ingredients. It is usually served with a sweet and savory sauce.