Things to do in Otaru

Activities, attractions and tours

A snow-covered canal with reflections of lights, buildings, and a crowd of people.
A street food stall with a sign reading "Smit's Grill" and a red banner with Japanese characters.
A sushi platter with various ingredients.
A snowy urban scene with buildings, a bridge, and a river.
A historic building with a traditional facade, large windows, and a prominent entrance.

Things to do

Sapporo: Hokkaido, Noboribetsu and Lake Toya Day Tour

Sapporo: Hokkaido, Noboribetsu and Lake Toya Day Tour

€50
per adult
Sapporo: Hokkaido, Noboribetsu and Lake Toya Day Tour
Sapporo: Lake Toya & Hell Valley Day Trip with Mt. Yotei

Sapporo: Lake Toya & Hell Valley Day Trip with Mt. Yotei

€46
per adult
Sapporo: Lake Toya & Hell Valley Day Trip with Mt. Yotei
Otaru Canal Private Sightseeing Tour from Sapporo Station

Otaru Canal Private Sightseeing Tour from Sapporo Station

€174
per adult
Otaru Canal Private Sightseeing Tour from Sapporo Station
With Lunch│Mt. Usu Ropeway, Noboribetsu, Lake Shikotsu Day Trip

With Lunch│Mt. Usu Ropeway, Noboribetsu, Lake Shikotsu Day Trip

€60
per adult
With Lunch│Mt. Usu Ropeway, Noboribetsu, Lake Shikotsu Day Trip
Otaru Day Tour: Canal, Shiroi Koibito & Mt Moiwa Night

Otaru Day Tour: Canal, Shiroi Koibito & Mt Moiwa Night

€50
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Otaru Day Tour: Canal, Shiroi Koibito & Mt Moiwa Night
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What to do in Otaru

Stay near popular Otaru attractions

A snow-covered canal with reflections of lights, buildings, and a crowd of people.

Otaru Canal

8.8/10 (2,075 reviews)
Stroll along Otaru Canal's historic waterway, lined with beautifully preserved stone warehouses from 1923. Evening visits reveal a magical scene as vintage gas lamps illuminate the curved pathway.
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Where to stay in Otaru

Find the best Otaru areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A sunset at the Rising Sun Rock Festival in Ezo with a banner across the field.
Photo by Yukiko Matsuoka
Open Photo by Yukiko Matsuoka

Zenibako

Check out the beaches during your time in Zenibako. Hop around the Otaru area on the metro at Zenibako Station to see top sights like Otaru Dream Beach and Zenibako Beach.

A cityscape with a prominent illuminated square at the center, surrounded by tall buildings and a snowy mountain backdrop.

Sapporo

Frequently asked questions

Is Otaru worth visiting?
Providing a blend of distilleries and craft breweries and cafes, there's no shortage of things to do in Otaru. When you're here, check out Kiroro Resort, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Otaru?
Asarigawa Hot Spring and Blue Grotto are two awesome places to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Otaru while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Otaru?
The top tourist attraction in Otaru is Kiroro Resort, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Otaru?
You can easily tour top attractions like Asarigawa Hot Spring, Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway and Otaru City Art Museum with a three-day getaway in Otaru. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and check out Sapporo.
What are some activities to do in Otaru with kids?
Deciding what to do in Otaru with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them happy here.

What to do in Otaru for adults?
Sakaimachi Street and Asari Sky Loop are just a couple of the things to do in Otaru. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Otaru?
In Otaru, Otaru City Art Museum is a popular spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a top way to discover the best free things to do in Otaru.