Otaru Canal Tours
The Otaru Canal is an iconic landmark in the Otaru town of Hokkaido. Facing the Japan Sea, the Otaru Canal was built in 1923 to improve the shipping system. 1140 meters in length and 40 meters in width, the canal is paved with stone in traditional style. Many warehouses were constructed during the industrial period to accommodate the trade growth at the time. Though the canal is obsolete and no longer in use, the local people reserved the structure to commemorate this special chapter in the history of the town. Today, the remnants are found along the cannel in the port city, and the gas lamps on the sides of the street still light up at night. The original warehouses, however, have been transformed into shops and restaurant for tourism's purpose.
What to See in Otaru Canal
The Chuo Bridge, located in the center of the canal, is a picturesque spot for the canal. The town is also famous for the Snow Light Path Festival. Host every winter, the festival lights up more than a hundred thousands of plain candles on the street, creating a romantic atmosphere in the town. Walking along will find the canal The Otaru City Museum, which is composed of the Canal Building and the Railway Museum.
The Canal building exhibits different artifacts and English pamphlets to inform visitors on the history of Otaru. On the other hand, the Railway Museum displays trains from different period and explain the history of railroad development. The Otaru City Museum requires a 500 yen admission fee and is open from 9:30AM to 5PM every day except Tuesdays. Otaru is a small town yet is worth visiting due to the scenic landscape. Walking the canal takes about 15 minutes, but many would recommend taking a bike ride or Rickshaws around the tranquil town.
How to Get to Otaru Canal
Opening Hours: Whole day
Entrance Ticket: Free
Address: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido
Duration: 1-2 hours
The Otaru Canal is an iconic landmark in the Otaru town of Hokkaido. Facing the Japan Sea, the Otaru Canal was built in 1923 to improve the shipping system. 1140 meters in length and 40 meters in width, the canal is paved with stone in traditional style. Many warehouses were constructed during the industrial period to accommodate the trade growth at the time. Though the canal is obsolete and no longer in use, the local people reserved the structure to commemorate this special chapter in the history of the town. Today, the remnants are found along the cannel in the port city, and the gas lamps on the sides of the street still light up at night. The original warehouses, however, have been transformed into shops and restaurant for tourism's purpose.
What to See in Otaru Canal
The Chuo Bridge, located in the center of the canal, is a picturesque spot for the canal. The town is also famous for the Snow Light Path Festival. Host every winter, the festival lights up more than a hundred thousands of plain candles on the street, creating a romantic atmosphere in the town. Walking along will find the canal The Otaru City Museum, which is composed of the Canal Building and the Railway Museum.
The Canal building exhibits different artifacts and English pamphlets to inform visitors on the history of Otaru. On the other hand, the Railway Museum displays trains from different period and explain the history of railroad development. The Otaru City Museum requires a 500 yen admission fee and is open from 9:30AM to 5PM every day except Tuesdays. Otaru is a small town yet is worth visiting due to the scenic landscape. Walking the canal takes about 15 minutes, but many would recommend taking a bike ride or Rickshaws around the tranquil town.
How to Get to Otaru Canal
Opening Hours: Whole day
Entrance Ticket: Free
Address: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido
Duration: 1-2 hours
Otaru Canal Tours
As a reliable Japan tour operator, we provide private transfers and tours to Otaru Canal for international travelers. Whether you are looking for a short Otaru Canal tour or a private chauffeur, you can easily find the most suitable one at an affordable price. Contact our representatives to book our Japan small group tours and Sapporo Private Chauffeurs.Related Articles You May Like
Most Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need to purchase a ticket to visit Otaru Canal?It is free admission, so ticket is not needed.
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To get to Otaru Canal, which station do I get off?Take the JR and get off at the Otaru Station. Follow the Chuo-Dori and you will reach the Otaru Canal.
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What itinerary do you recommend visiting the Otaru Canal?Visit the Otaru Canal in the morning. Take a stroll along the canal and warehouses while immersing yourself in the historical atmosphere of the old harbor town. After a leisurely lunch by the Otaru Canal, visit the Otaru Taishou Glass Palace and Otaru Music Box Museum before returning back to the hotel.
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What are the must-eat foods in Otaru?Otaru is famous for its food in Hokkaido. COMSEN Otaru canal cafeteria is among the most popular, followed by Masa Zushi, LeTAO Main Store, and Rokkatei.
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What are the recommended hotels near the Otaru Canal?Grand Park Otaru, Dormy Inn Premium Otaru, Hotel Nord Otaru, and the Green Otaru are very popular among visitors.
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What is the best time to visit Otaru Canal?Otaru Canal is famous for its snow scenery, but it is also attractive in summer with a bright blue sky. Thus, no matter when you visit, you are guaranteed to catch the unique beauty of the town.
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Does your join-in group include visiting the Otaru Canal?Yes, during our join-in group, our tour guide will take you on an in-depth tour around Otaru Canal.
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Do you provide transfer service from Sapporo to Otaru?Yes, we provide transfer service from Sapporo to Otaru. We recommend booking a full day service not only so you have sufficient time to explore the town, but also because the price for a half day and a full day service is about the same.
Japan Office
- Tel: +81 50-3701-6391
- Email: info@japanholiday.com
- Working Hours: 8am-7pm, (Japan)
USA Office
- Tel: +1-6265617117
- Email: info@japanholiday.com
- Working Hours: 8am-7pm, Pacific Time
