A Day in Otaru: Full Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo Guide
Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by Audrey
Thinking about an Otaru day trip from Sapporo?
During my first trip to Hokkaido, one of my favorite activities was the day spent strolling around Otaru.
Otaru is a fantastic day trip option from Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. It’s only half an hour away by train, and has lots of sightseeing spots and local boutiques to browse. It’s also a great halfway point between Sapporo and Niseko, so it’s perfect for anyone going to or from Niseko or the Shakotan Peninsula.
If you’re considering visiting Otaru while you’re in Hokkaido, you should! This guide will tell you everything you need to know about a day trip to Otaru.
Short on Time? Use these shortcuts to plan your Hokkaido trip
🏠Book accommodation in Hokkaido: My FAVORITE hotel in Sapporo is Mitsui Garden, and I love the Dormy Inn in Otaru.
🏔️Find activities and tours for Hokkaido: I LOVED this full day tour that took us to the top landmarks in Hokkaido! We visited the bubbling Hell Valley in Noboribetsu, saw stunning views of Lake Toya, and shopped the local boutiques in Otaru. It was perfect.
What is Otaru Famous For?
Otaru (小樽) is a small harbor city with a beautiful canal area reminiscent of Venice. It served as a major port during Hokkaido’s colonization in the late 1800s and was connected to Sapporo by Hokkaido’s first railway line.
Traces of that era remain today, with old warehouses and former office style buildings of shipping companies visible as you walk along the canal, giving Otaru a nostalgic, cinematic charm that feels like stepping into a past decade.
This quaint town has a lot to offer, with delicious fresh seafood, quirky museums, and cute local artisan shops selling hand-blown glassware and delicate ornaments. In the winter, the canal transforms with snow and warmly glowing lanterns to provide a romantic scene out of a movie.
With its charming character and convenient proximity to Sapporo, Otaru is perfect for a half day or full day trip to explore another side of Hokkaido.
How To Get To Otaru
By Train
It’s super easy to get to Otaru from Sapporo.
You can take the Rapid Airport Line from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station. A one-way ticket costs ¥1,830 and takes around 35 minutes. Trains depart every 30 minutes, and since it’s so frequent, you don’t need to make prior reservations.
Another option is the local train on the JR Hakodate Line, which is 50 minutes for ¥750. This ride is covered by the JR Pass or JR Hokkaido Pass.
Take A Full-Day Tour To Otaru And Hokkaido
When I visited Otaru, I joined a full-day tour from Sapporo, and it ended up being one of the best ways to explore the top attractions in Hokkaido in a single day. This top-rated tour includes Noboribetsu, Otaru, Lake Toya, and Mitsui Outlet Park, though it can change with seasonality.
It was a packed schedule, but if you’re only spending a few days in Hokkaido, a tour from Sapporo might make the most sense. I loved being able to see Hell Valley, Lake Toya, and Otaru without having to worry about transportation.
Otaru Day Trip Map
Here’s an easy walking route for a day in Otaru! Most major attractions, like the Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street, and the Music Box Museum, are within 15–20 minutes from Otaru Station, so you can easily explore on foot.
Otaru Day Trip Guide
Let’s talk about things you can do in Otaru!
Things to do in Otaru
Eat Seafood Donburi at Sankaku Market
Sankaku Market is similar to Nijo Market in Sapporo. Hokkaido is known for having some of the most delicious seafood in the country, and being a port city, Otaru has some of the freshest fish.
If you love seafood, then this is a great place to visit to taste Otaru’s famous seafood. It’s close by to the station too, so if you’re taking the train to Otaru you can grab a bite on the way to the canal.
Stroll along the Otaru Canal
The Otaru Canal is the city’s most iconic landmark and the heart of all the shops and sightseeing in town. It recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023!
Brick and stone warehouses that used to store goods during Hokkaido’s industrialization in the Meiji and Taisho eras line the water. Today, many of them have been transformed into cafés, boutiques, and small museums, creating the perfect mix of old and new.
You can stroll along the walkway beside the canal or see it from the water by taking a 40-minute gondola ride, which costs around ¥1,800–¥2,000. It’s a relaxing way to experience Otaru from a different perspective, and I recommend making a reservation in advance.
The canal is nice to visit at any time of day, but at night the lanterns turn on and it becomes especially magical with the warm glow from the old warehouses.
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
If you’re planning to visit Otaru in February, you’ll get to see the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival! This festival takes place in early to mid-February, and from 5 PM to 9 PM the entire town turns into a snowy fairy tale, with lanterns, lights, and snow statues all around the canal.
The dates usually blend with the Sapporo Snow Festival, so you can visit both during your trip.
I’ve been trying to go for years, but it never works out. So if you get to go, I’m jealous!
Shop along Sakaimachi Street
One of my favorite spots in Otaru is Sakaimachi Street, where all the local street vendors and boutique shops are.
We spent around 1-1.5 hours here, sampling wagyu skewers and fresh uni. I love the local artisan shops here, where you can find niche goods like petite frog figurines doing all sorts of poses, or preserved bonsai trees in vibrant colors.
This is the most popular area of Otaru, so you can’t miss out on strolling around here. Keep in mind that most of the shops close around 4-5 PM, so don’t come too late.
Get cream puffs from Kitakaros
Since you’re already in Sakaimachi Street, visit Kitakaro for their famous cream puffs made with Hokkaido milk! These cream puffs are humungous, and they come in all types of flavors.
While the cream puffs are what they’re most known for, Kitakaro also sells soft serve ice cream and cake sets.
💡 Pro tip: They add a lot of custard cream, so if you don’t want too much cream then pick the one with the thinnest shell.
Taste LeTao cheesecake
LeTao is a very famous patisserie, originating from Otaru! The main store is right next to the Otaru Music Box Museum, and features two floors.
You’ll find delicious cakes and souvenirs on the first floor, and the second floor serves their world famous double fromage cheesecake, with a seating area and an observation deck with scenic views of the town.
The desserts are decadent, and sooo cute. I recommend spending 20-30 minutes here to enjoy their cheesecake with some hot tea.
There may be a line, but don’t give up if it says there's a long wait. I think people give up pretty quickly and the line does move pretty quick.
Visit a unique museum
Otaru features some pretty unique museums. If you can hang around the whole day, then it’s worth checking one of these out.
Otaru Music Box Museum
This museum is a collection of multiple buildings, with the main center being a large shop filled with all sorts of different music boxes. You’ll learn about the history of music boxes and can also purchase one as a unique souvenir.
Or, if you prefer to be more hands-on, they also have a craft studio where you can make your own music box or glass. The end results are so cute!
I’ve always loved music boxes, they carry a magical, nostalgic charm about them. It’s a sweet, romantic gift that can remind you of your time in Otaru.
Otaru Museum
Two museums in one that invite visitors to learn about Otaru’s rich history and it’s role in Hokkaido's industrialization.
The Canal Building is right next to the Otaru Canal in a former warehouse, and gives an overview on the city’s history all the way back to the Ainu, Hokkaido’s indigenous people.
Bank of Japan Otaru Museum
Housed in the original Otaru Branch building from 1912, this museum pulls you into the history of Japanese currency and Otaru’s financial past.
You can step into an old vault and feel the weight of a hundred million yen. The best thing about this museum is that admission is free!
Museum of Venetian Art
Yes, you’re in Japan, but maybe you want a little taste of Europe too.
The Museum of Venetian Art is a large museum with breathtaking displays of Venetian glassware and ornate sculptures.
Otaru definitely has some Venice-inspired characteristics, with gondolas and glass-blowing items, so this museum is a creative blend of the two cities.
Stained Glass Museum
This is a small museum with imported stain glass artwork all brought in from Europe. It’s very beautiful inside! The art is perfectly preserved, and breathtakingly beautiful. You won’t have to spend too long here, maybe 15-20 minutes.
See the Otaru Steam Clock
Right outside the Otaru Music Box Museum you’ll spot the Otaru Steam Clock, which was a gift from Vancouver, Canada!
This British-style bronze clock is 5.5 meters tall and is powered by a steam engine. At every hour, the clock plays a cute tune with steam that comes out from the top. If you’re already planning to visit the museum, don’t forget to stick around to hear the music.
Buy some Otaru Glass Souvenirs
In Sakaimachi Street you’ll find Otaru’s signature glassware. Otaru glass crafts are famous world-wide, and there are tons of glass warehouses and stores here with beautiful vaulted ceilings and warm glass lamps.
The most famous store here is Kitaichi Glass, with shops all around Sakaimachi Street. Kitaichi Glass is why Otaru became famous for glassware originally, when they started selling glass oil lamps to tourists in 1901.
The main stores are beautiful to walk around in, but when you’re done I recommend going to Kitaichi Glass Outlet for the cheapest deals! The outlet store has a ton of end of season pieces, sample pieces, or imperfect pieces that aren’t sold in the main store.
Glass blowing workshop
If you want to DIY your own glassware during your Sapporo to Otaru day trip, you can at some of the shops here.
I believe Otaru Il Ponte and the Otaru Taishou Glass Museum offer glass making workshops! It’s a super unique experience that will be unforgettable. Make sure to make a reservation first!
Tanaka Sake Brewery
If you like sake, then Tanaka Sake Brewery is a really unique experience because the sake is only produced and sold in Otaru! It’s a perfect souvenir to commemorate your time here.
The brewery is in a traditional wooden building that is over 100 years old. You can self-tour the brewery for free. Start by going into the brewery shop and turn right to go up the stairs to see the working brewery.
There’s also a free sake tasting table at the back of the store! Who doesn’t love free tours and alcohol? This is one of the best hidden gems in Otaru.
Just make sure you’re not driving or cycling, and you must be 20 or older to try the tasting.
Suggested Otaru Day Trip Itinerary
Alright, so what would your Sapporo to Otaru day trip schedule look like? Otaru is perfect for a half-day trip, or you could combine it with Yoichi for a full day trip.
- Morning: Arrive at Otaru Station, have a donburi at Sankaku Market and then walk along the Otaru Canal. Maybe check out Otaru Music Box Museum or one of the other museums.
- Lunch: Try Masazushi Honten for delicious fresh sushi or Yabuhan Soba for traditional soba (but come early, they’re very popular)
- Afternoon: Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the local boutiques at Sakaimachi street.
Where to Stay in Otaru
If you’re interested in spending the night in Otaru, you’ll have more time to check out the local shrines and temples. There are also some amazing ryokan and hotels here with natural hot spring water sources, so it’s perfect for an overnight stay.
Luxury: Hotel Nord Otaru ($$)
- ⭐ Rating: 8.4/10 (1,700 reviews)
This 4-star hotel is a 7-minute walk from Otaru Station, in a perfect location to enjoy the historic area of Otaru. The guest rooms are Western style with beautiful views of Otaru Canal and walking distance to Sakaimachi Street and most of the city’s main attractions.
Plus, they have a big breakfast spread where you can enjoy local specialties and Hokkaido milk products first thing in the morning!
Mid-Range: Dormy Inn Premium Otaru ($$)
- ⭐ Rating: 8.4/10 (3,100 reviews)
I love the Dormy Inn in Otaru because it’s right next to Otaru Station, so you can drop off your things super easily before exploring the town.
There’s also a sauna and a large public onsen to enjoy a nice long soak after walking around all day! Plus, I love how the hotel gives you tons of free snacks like yakult, ice cream and ramen to enjoy after your bath.
It’s in a perfect location, they have a great breakfast buffet, and there are tons of nice amenities. What more could you need?
Budget: Little Barrel ($)
- ⭐ Rating: 8.7/10 (1,100 reviews)
Little Barrel is a cozy hostel with an amazing atmospheric vibe. The rooms are simple and a great value at $38/night. The staff are also super nice, and the common areas are fun to hang around in, with lush green plants and warm hanging lanterns.
It’s a little bit farther from Otaru Station and Otaru Canal, around a 15-20 minute walk. You can’t beat the price though.
Otaru Day Trip FAQs
Conclusion: Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo
Otaru is a quick and easy day trip from Sapporo, and has such a different energy from Hokkaido’s bustling capital. It’s such a cute and magical town, with it’s local shops and beautiful glassware. I hope my travel tips have helped you plan your day trip to Otaru!
If you need any help planning your trip, feel free to drop a comment or send me an email at audrey@getlostinjapan.com! I’d love to know if you’re enjoying my content! I also offer customized itineraries as well.
I recommend checking out my 5-day Sapporo itinerary or my 5-day Hokkaido itinerary for more ideas on what to do during your trip to northern Japan! This place is awesome, and I’m excited for you to explore it!
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