Otaru is a magical experience and should not be missed when you are in Hokkaido. Here are five of the many things you should try when you are visiting.
1. Have some Ice Cream
Otaru is known all over Hokkaido for its delicious ice cream. There is an ice cream place situated in a warehouse called Kita-no Aisukurimu-ya-san that dates back to 1892. Be sure to try the sea urchin flavour and the shockingly black squid ink flavour.
2. Walk Along the Canal
Situated in close enough proximity to Grand Park Otaru, the Canal is what makes Otaru so magical. Constructed in 1923, the canal makes for a fascinating night-time stroll lit by ancient oil lamps. You can also tour the canal by boat.
3. Check Out the Glassware
Otaru is responsible for producing most of the glassware products in Japan. It is very famous for its glass balls and oil lamps and there are plenty of workshops that you can and witness this.
4. Otaru Museum
Take some time to head out of your Otaru hotel near Jr Station and explore the Otaru Museum. It will show you the city’s interesting history in a series of dioramas.
5. Try the Local Beer
Last but not least, check out the famous Otaru beer scene at the most famous beer hall in the city.