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22 Available Tour Excursions in Otaru
The stunning Shakotan - Otaru coastline is only truly experiened from on the water and there is no better way than in a sea kayak on a fully guided tour. Paddle over pristine blue water whilst exploring the cliffs, caves and bays in Hokkaido's only Marine Park.
Price: $98.85
Duration: 2 hours
This tour will visit Otaru, once the distribution center of Hokkaido.Otaru is a town that became a popular tourist destination thanks to Japanese movies. On the Otaru Canal Walking Tour, we will stop at facilities of interest to our guests for an extraordinary experience.For example, you can stroll through the retro streets in the Sakai-machi shopping district and enjoy Otaru's famous glass and music boxes. You can also enjoy delicious food. Please let your guide know if there is any restaurant you would like to visit! Our nationally certified guides will be happy to show you around.
Price: $165.00
Duration: 4 hours
・You can carve the surface of soft stone yourself to create your own seal. ・There is an instructor to guide you, so even children can participate safely. ・The finished seal can be used for various purposes. ・There is a market nearby where you can enjoy shopping and dining after the experience. ・You can take home the stamp box, ink pad, and stamp mat.
Price: $56.67
Duration: 1 hours
Discover the unique charm of Otaru, Hokkaido’s historic northern gateway. Once a bustling port linking Hokkaido to mainland Japan, this town boasts beautifully preserved buildings over 100 years old. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will take you to picture-perfect photo spots, popular attractions, hidden gems, and secret historical corners often missed by visitors. Explore vibrant Sankaku Market, serene Temiya Line Trail, the stately former Bank of Japan building, sunlit Otaru Canal, and Sakaimachi Street with artisan glass studios and sweet shops. This private walking tour is tailored to your interests, offering a comfortable, unique experience—like exploring with a local friend. ・Visit well-known and hidden spots alike. ・Customizable itinerary based on your preferences. ・Insightful commentary on history, culture, and photography. ・Engage your senses—from lively markets to glass art and sweets. ・Perfect for cruise guests or small groups seeking a relaxed, crowd-free tour.
Price: $101.39
Duration: 4 hours
Discover the natural beauty of Hokkaido on a guided hike up Shioya Maruyama, where stunning vistas of the ocean, Yoichi, Otaru, and the majestic Mt Yotei await. This entry-level hike is perfect for all skill levels, lasting approximately 4 hours round trip. At the summit, enjoy a well-deserved snack and refreshments while taking in the panoramic views. Led by a qualified local guide who is a native English speaker, this intimate experience accommodates small groups of 1-6 guests. Transport from Shioya Station is included, along with hiking poles if needed. - Scenic 4-hour round trip hike with breathtaking views - Snacks and refreshments provided at the summit - Qualified local guide fluent in English - Transport from Shioya Station and hiking poles included - Flexible start time
Price: $72.49
Duration: 4 hours
This port city of the north has four distinct seasons, the nice sea breeze in summer, to the snow covered winter views that will give you the chills. Piers, canals and stockyards will remind everyone of the bustling old days, and you will feel the dashing spirit of Otaru.
Price: $39.54
Duration: 0-2 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Otaru! Otaru is a famous historical city and popular vacation spot in Hokkaido. But if you’ve never been there before, it can be hard to know where to go and what to see. In this guide, We’ll introduce some of the best sightseeing spots, restaurants and sweet shops for those going to Otaru for the first time. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Price: $154.86
Duration: 6 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Otaru! Otaru is a famous historical city and popular vacation spot in Hokkaido. But if you’ve never been there before, it can be hard to know where to go and what to see. In this guide, We’ll introduce some of the best sightseeing spots, restaurants and sweet shops for those going to Otaru for the first time. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hours tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Price: $108.73
Duration: 4 hours
Discover the dramatic beauty of Hokkaido’s Shakotan Peninsula on this scenic full-day tour from Sapporo. Visit the crystal-clear Shimamui Coast and stroll along the rugged cliffs of Cape Kamui, where panoramic views of the “Shakotan Blue” sea await. Savor a local culinary highlight—uni-don, a rice bowl topped with rich, fresh sea urchin. A seafood bowl alternative is available with advance notice. This group tour includes comfortable round-trip coach transport and is perfect for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Price: $109.75
Duration: 8 hours
This is one of the best tours to enjoy fresh beer in Japan. Take a premium tour to the Sapporo Beer Museum and spend time with your guide on the streets of Otaru! The only beer museum in Japan, you can learn about the relationship between beer and Hokkaido's development while sampling beer only available here. After the beer tour, enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere as you stroll through the streets of Otaru.This tour is enjoyable not only for beer lovers, but also for those who love the atmosphere of the Meiji Era in Japan and for families. Please let the guide know if there is any restaurant you would like to visit!
Price: $315.00
Duration: 7 hours
Experience the charm of Otaru on this private shore tour departing from the port. Stroll along Sakaimachi Street, lined with historic shops, cafés, and local artisans. Try your hand at a traditional glass-blowing activity, a signature craft of Otaru. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Otaru Canal, famous for its vintage warehouses and romantic ambiance. Take a scenic Blue Cave cruise to admire the sparkling waters and coastal scenery. Conclude your tour with breathtaking views from Tengu Mountain, where you can capture panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding sea.
Price: $534.43
Duration: 8 hours
This approx. 1.5-hour trekking tour takes you to the Shukutsu area on Otaru’s northern tip to experience its dynamic terrain and history. While the course has some elevation changes, it is beginner-friendly and easy to walk. Highlights include Akaiwa, a reddish-brown rock formed by ancient submarine volcanoes, and breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan from cliffs carved by waves. You will tour scenic spots where you can feel the breath of the Earth, looking down upon a harbor sheltered by breakwaters. Next, we visit the Herring Mansion (Nishin Goten), a symbol of the prosperity this area once enjoyed. Through magnificent architecture built by fishery masters, you will feel the energy of those who lived by the northern seas. To conclude, we head to a local seafood diner unique to this port town. Savor the bounty of Hokkaido’s seas, nurtured by the Tsushima Warm Current. We invite you to a special experience where you can appreciate the charms of Otaru with your eyes, feet, and palate.
Price: $168.98
Duration: 5 hours
In 2024, ""Traditional Sake Brewing"" in Japan was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition honors unique brewing techniques using koji mold and the rich culture surrounding them. Otaru’s Tanaka Sake Brewery, home to the historic ""Kikkogura"" building, is a rare establishment where visitors can observe sake brewing year-round. On this special tour, you will step behind the scenes into areas normally off-limits to experience traditional brewing firsthand. You will observe the meticulous work of the Toji (master brewer) and the process up close, witnessing the skill and passion behind the craft. Through expert explanations of ingredients and methods, you will gain a deeper understanding of the art of sake. The tour concludes with tasting freshly brewed sake. Savor the aromas and flavors as you appreciate the allure of brewing. Create unforgettable memories with this experience where living Japanese tradition and culture come alive.
Price: $162.22
Duration: 3 hours
Set within the deeply nostalgic atmosphere of Otaru Central Market, this special culinary experience connects you with the ""indomitable spirit"" of the women who once supported the local economy, carrying heavy tin cans on their backs. With the hustle and bustle of the market as your background music, an Otaru-based seafood expert will provide careful instruction on making exquisite Onigiri using local ingredients. The exquisite hand pressure that brings out the full flavor of the rice and the techniques to make the most of the ingredients are lifelong skills you can recreate at home. The highlight of the experience is the social time after cooking. Savor your freshly pressed Onigiri while listening to stories about the history of predecessors who lived resiliently in nature's harshness, and deep food culture known only to locals. Enjoy a rich, immersive moment that goes beyond a simple cooking class, connecting you deeply with the origins of Otaru’s ""food"" and ""people.""
Price: $168.98
Duration: 3 hours
Otaru Kihankan (The old Aoyama Villa) is the luxurious Japanese-style villa in the past. If visitors come here, don't miss the restaurant inside because there are many delicious foods and the great view of Japanese old villa with four seasons. Visitors can fully enjoy the luxury of "seeing" and "tasting" when coming here.
Price: $9.95
Duration: 3 hours
・Enjoy the great outdoors of Otaru. ・A guide accompanies the tour, so you can participate with confidence. ・The meeting station is only about 10 minutes from Otaru by train. ・Snow wear, snow boots, gloves, knit hats, and other gear can be rented on-site (additional fees apply).
Price: $108.73
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the charm of Otaru on this concise 4-hour tour designed for cruise passengers. Begin with a leisurely walk along the historic Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street, where the preserved warehouses and merchant shops showcase the city’s vibrant trading history. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the bustling Sankaku Market, a must-visit for food lovers. Afterward, ascend Mt. Tengu via a scenic ropeway to take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. The tour wraps up at the Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck, offering stunning vistas of the sea and townscape before returning you to Otaru Port. - Explore Otaru’s historic canal and merchant streets - Savor a fresh seafood lunch at the lively Sankaku Market - Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride to Mt. Tengu for panoramic views - Conclude at the Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck ※The driver speaks Japanese. We will send the English materials to you in advance.
Price: $672.00
Duration: 4 hours
Discover the romantic charm of Otaru, a historical gem in Hokkaido, through a guided walking tour that offers both daytime and nighttime experiences. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with architectural treasures, including the former Bank of Japan and the iconic Otaru Canal, where you can capture the city’s rich past. The evening tour reveals a quieter ambiance as you wander past softly lit buildings, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Each tour includes insightful commentary from an English-speaking guide and admissions to key sites, allowing you to immerse yourself in Otaru’s cultural essence. - Explore Otaru's historical architecture during a guided walking tour - Daytime and nighttime options to experience the city’s charm - Includes visits to the Financial History Museum and Otaru Canal - Knowledgeable English-speaking guide for an enriching experience
Price: $69.19
Duration: 2 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken in tourist areas)
- Climate: Humid continental
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 120,000
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is winter for the snow festival or summer for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days for tourism. Others may require a visa obtained in advance. Japan also offers e-visa options for certain nationalities. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers should have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.
About Otaru
Otaru is a charming port city located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its nostalgic atmosphere, Otaru captivates visitors with its beautifully preserved canal area lined with historic warehouses that have been converted into cafes, shops, and museums. The city’s rich history as a trading hub is reflected in its architecture and maritime heritage. Otaru is also renowned for its exquisite glassware and music boxes, making it a haven for art lovers and collectors. The fresh seafood, especially sushi and crab, draws food enthusiasts from around the world. Seasonal events like the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival illuminate the city with hundreds of lanterns and snow sculptures, creating a magical winter experience. With easy access from Sapporo, Otaru offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and culinary delights, making it an essential destination for travelers to Hokkaido.
Otaru Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Hokkaido
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is winter for the snow festival or summer for pleasant weather. Pack warm clothing in winter and comfortable shoes for walking. Respect local customs such as quiet behavior in public and proper disposal of trash. Carry cash as some small shops may not accept cards. English signage is common in tourist areas, but learning basic Japanese phrases is helpful. Safety is high, but always be mindful of weather conditions in winter.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $180
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Otaru Canal – A picturesque canal lined with Victorian-style street lamps and historic warehouses, perfect for scenic walks and photography. 2. Otaru Music Box Museum – A charming museum showcasing a vast collection of music boxes and offering visitors the chance to create their own. 3. Kitaichi Glass Shop – Famous for exquisite handcrafted glassware, this shop also features a museum and workshops. 4. Otaru Aquarium – A family-friendly attraction featuring marine life native to the Sea of Japan and entertaining dolphin shows. 5. Mount Tengu – Offers hiking trails and panoramic views of Otaru and the Sea of Japan, ideal for nature lovers.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy canal-side strolls, glassblowing workshops, and music box crafting experiences. Seafood tasting tours and sushi-making classes are popular culinary activities. In winter, snowshoeing and attending the Snow Light Path Festival are highlights. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike Mount Tengu or explore nearby ski resorts. Boat tours along the coast provide scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Otaru is famous for its fresh seafood, including sushi, crab, sea urchin, and scallops. The city’s sushi restaurants are renowned for quality and freshness, with conveyor belt sushi and traditional establishments available. Local specialties include kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls) and grilled seafood. Dining customs emphasize freshness and seasonality. Noteworthy restaurants include Sankaku Market eateries and the historic Masazushi. Sweets lovers should try the local cream puffs and confectioneries found in the canal area.
Getting Around
Otaru is accessible by train from Sapporo via the JR Hakodate Line, taking about 30 to 40 minutes. Local buses and taxis provide transportation within the city. Walking is convenient in the central area, especially around the canal. Bicycle rentals are also available for exploring. Transportation costs are moderate, with train fares from Sapporo around 640 yen one way.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is winter for the snow festival or summer for pleasant weather. Pack warm clothing in winter and comfortable shoes for walking. Respect local customs such as quiet behavior in public and proper disposal of trash. Carry cash as some small shops may not accept cards. English signage is common in tourist areas, but learning basic Japanese phrases is helpful. Safety is high, but always be mindful of weather conditions in winter.
Culture & Customs
Otaru’s culture reflects traditional Japanese values with a focus on hospitality and respect. Social customs include bowing as a greeting and removing shoes indoors. The city hosts the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival and other seasonal events celebrating local heritage. Visitors should be punctual, polite, and mindful of quiet zones. Gift-giving and modest dress are appreciated in formal settings. Photography is generally allowed but ask permission in private or sacred places.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
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Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
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Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..