The Otaru Canal
Whenever people make a plan of visiting Japan, they prefer to visit the two most happening cities of Japan i.e. Tokyo and Kyoto. However, my plan was a little different as I focused on exploring the cities that can help me learn more about Japan and its culture. After my trip to Sapporo, I decided to visit Hokkaido as it is quite famous as it is rich in agriculture produce. It is one of the most important economic pillars that helps Japan balance its economy in the best manner possible. Surprisingly the weather in Hokkaido, the weather was quite comfortable as compared to central Japan where it is humid in Summers.
My trip to Hokkaido focused on exploring the city of Otaru. I planned my trip from Sapporo to Otaru after my trip to Sapporo came to an end. Otaru is one of the oldest cities of Hokkaido and a lot of historical architecture still stands tall in the city. People often feel nostalgic as they walk through the streets of Otaru. Each piece of architecture speaks for itself.
Otaru city is located on the harbor so I got a chance to feast on different seafood delicacies especially my favorite dish i.e. Sushi.
Top Tourist Attractions in Otaru City
1.The Otaru Canal
Me beside the Otaru Canal
When I reached Otaru city, I wanted to visit the Otaru Canal first as I heard a lot of people sharing their experience. The Otaru Canal is the top tourist attraction for people who are visiting the city for the first time. Initially, the canal was used to transport goods from one place to another.
However, with the introduction of the new transportation system, the canal was no longer used for the same purpose. It is now being used by tourists for sightseeing purposes. I went for canal cruising the entire ride was for 40 minutes.
Cruise’s staffs will give you a fan when it’s too sunny
During that time I got a chance to see places that I never thought of visiting before.
View from the Otaru Canal Cruise 1
View from the Otaru Canal Cruise 2
How about visiting a beer garden near the Otaru Canal to take a little rest?
Green and red beer I tried here was very interesting. It was fruity and sweet.
2. Otaru Music Box Museum
Otaru Music Box Museum
Otaru Music Box Museum was always on my bucket list as I love music and I always wanted to experience the magical form of music in Hokkaido. The museum has a total of 25,000 music boxes and each box belongs to a different era. It also has antique musical instruments that often makes people feel nostalgic as they start reminiscing about the time that has gone by.
Beautiful music boxes in the museum
Music boxes collaborated with Yuzuru Hanyu, a Japanese figure skater
I was not able to spend money on buying any item that was on sale. However, I explored every instrument closely. I was quite amazed that the museum also offers the visitor to create their music box if they wish to own one.
3. The Otaru Mt. Tengu Ropeway
Tengu Ropeway (image from tripnote.jp)
I always wanted to capture the view of the Otaru City from the top. The Otaru Mt. Tengu Ropeway gave me a chance to fulfill my desire. The mountains offer you a spectacular view of the city from the top. I went there at night and the view was breathtakingly beautiful. The lights were shining so bright that for a minute I thought I was looking at the stars. The entire view was so surreal.
Amazing Restaurants and Food in Otaru City
The most important part of traveling to cities is to try their delicacies as it brings you much more close to their tradition, food, and culture. I got a chance to try the most famous restaurants located in Otaru City.
1. WakadoriJodai Naruto Honten
Wakadori Teishoku
Wakadori (chick)
WakadoriJodai Naruto Honten is famous for its WakadoriHanmiage. WakadoriHanmiage is a fried chicken that is marinated with spices. It is crispy from outside but is bursting with flavors from inside. The chicken is quite huge but I can say it with certainty that you will love it.
2. LeTAO
LeTAO’s cheesecake
LeTAO’s limited-time muskmelon cheesecake
If you love to try new desserts then LeTAO is the right place for you. It has a total of 10 outlets spread throughout Hokkaido. They specialize in colorful cakes, however; the most famous cake is Pathos. Pathos is a form of a cheesecake that is topped with mascarpone cheese. The dessert is worth trying.
3. Ice Cream Parlor Misono
Ice Cream Parlor Misono (image from tabelog.com)
The Misono Ice Cream Parlor sells fresh and organic ice cream that can remind you of your childhood. The flavors are so unique and authentic. It offers a total of 30 different flavors, however; I would recommend you all to try their vanilla and strawberry ice cream. It surely is the best they have to offer.
4. Kamaei
Kamaei’s Kamaboko, Japanese fishcake (image from kamaei.co.jp)
Otaru has some of the most delicious seafood that is always packed with flavor. I got a chance to visit Kamaei restaurant which is famous for selling Kamaboko. Kamaboko is a fish paste that is changed and molded into different shapes and sizes. I thoroughly enjoyed Kamaboko with a cup of coffee.
5.Sushi
Sushi in a sushi restaurant in Otaru
Otaru is also famous for sushi especially crab and scallop. if you look at google map, you will be able to find out many restaurants features fresh crab and scallop sushi with good reviews.
Souvenirs to Take Along
The most interesting part of traveling is to collect souvenirs as you travel. Souvenirs help you ensure that your memories related to particular place remains intact at all times. It reminds you of the good times and motivates you to make more memories. The souvenirs I bought for myself and my loved ones are as follows:
1. Kitaichi Glass
Kitaichi Glass (image from gurutabi.gnavi.co.jp)
Otaru city is famous for its glass industry. Kitaichi Glass is quite famous in Otaru as they produce glass in different shapes, sizes, and colors. It is a perfect souvenir that anyone can get for their loved ones.
2. Music Box
The Otaru Music Box is also quite famous. The museum offers its tourists a chance to get a music box for their family and friends. They can either select from the designs displayed or they can get one made right there and then.
My trip to Otaru City was quite memorable. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip mostly because of the people and locations I interacted with. However, my trip to Sapporo does not end here as I decided to explore one more city. I will share my experience of that city and what exactly the place has in store for us.
