What to know
Otaru (小樽) is a small harbor city about half an hour northwest of Sapporo by train. Its beautifully preserved canal area and interesting herring mansions make it a pleasant day trip from Sapporo or a nice stop en route to or from Niseko or the Shakotan Peninsula.
From the early days of Hokkaido's colonization in the late 1800s, Otaru served as a major port. It was hence chosen as the terminal station of Hokkaido's first railway line, which connected the port with nearby Sapporo. Many old warehouses and former office buildings by shipping companies give Otaru's city center a special character reminiscent of past decades.
Activities and attractions
Otaru Snow Light Path FestivalFestival with small illuminated snow statues
Otaru CanalBeautiful canal lined by old warehouses
Nikka Whisky Yoichi DistilleryWhisky distillery in neighboring Yoichi Town
Herring Mansions (Nishin Goten)A wealthy fisherman’s former mansion
Sakaimachi StreetCharming historic street in central Otaru
Otaru City MuseumMuseum about the history of Otaru