The city of Otaru in Hokkaido offers some truly breathtaking sights of great beauty; here are some of them well worth taking in and posting on Instagram too!
Coastal Views
Boat cruises offer some of the best views of the area. Such excursions can be taken from the marina in front of Grand Park Otaru and give you a chance to travel out to Ishikari Bay and the Sea of Japan; you can view the idyllic coastline with its intriguing rock outcrops and impressive cliffs and catch stunning sunsets too.
Otaru Canal
Not to be missed is the sight of the historical canal in Otaru; this attraction has a walkway beside the water for a romantic stroll. This promenade is lit up in the evenings with oil lamps that add to its charm and you can take one of the nightly canal cruises as well.
Mount Tengu
The views from the top of Mount Tengu are nothing short of awe-inspiring and its night vistas are said to be amongst the best in Hokkaido. You can reach the summit via Mt. Tengu Ropeway which is part of the adventure; look to plan your visit at the time of sunset for amazing panoramas over Ishikari Bay and Otaru.
Shukutsu Panorama Observatory
Those staying at hotels in Otaru can also look to visit the Shukutsu Panorama Observatory; located near the Otaru Aquarium, this observation deck is on an elevated area that can be reached by car. Once there, you will be rewarded with lovely views of the Sea of Japan and Otaru, especially during sunset. If you are looking out for accommodation in Otaru, a hotel near Jr Station would be the ideal location with easy access to many attractions and is just a 16-minute drive away from the observatory as well.
