Otaru, once a herring town/major commercial city in the early 1900s, is steeped in history and historical buildings. Its proximity to Sapporo makes this a popular destination for day-trippers. The compact town can be easily explored on foot or by the trolley bus.
There are three main attractions in Otaru that are approximately a 8- to 10-minute walk from the JR Otaru station. They are situated along the Ironai Street, formerly known as the "Wall street of Hokkaido."
The Otaru Canal (Otaru Unga) is a must-see for all visitors. It is best viewed at dusk, when the canal is lighted by gas lamps lining one side and the historic brick warehouses are reflected in the waters. We were, however, disappointed by this sight, although the photos we took turned up surprisingly well. Perhaps we were simply too cold, wet, and tired to admire it at the time.
Kitaichi Glass Emporium/ Kitaichi Museum of Venetian Art
If you are as clumsy as an elephant, this is NOT the place to be. As the name suggests, these buildings house some of the most exquisite glass crafts and lamps. We spent a good hour admiring the works. At the museum shop and gallery, the sales staff discreetly and quickly wipes away fingerprints left behind by visitors. For souvenir hunters, there are small trinkets available at affordable prices. Look for the little cute bookmarks in the shape of gas lamps or beautiful pendants that change color according to the light.
Otaru Music Box Museum (main building) and the No2 Otaru Music Box Antique Museum
Visitors need not fear losing their way to these museums since the tinkling sounds from the music boxes can be heard metres away. Simply follow your ears. If you are still not sure, look out for the steam clock that stands in front of the main building (it actually steams). Both buildings are located diagonally from each other. The buildings themselves are of historical significance, dating back to the 1900s, when Otaru was in its heyday. The red-brick main building houses hundreds of music boxes for sale, while most of the antique music boxes can be found in the No 2 Otaru Music Box museum. Visitors can create their own "one-of-the-kind" music box at the third level of the main building. Admission to these buildings is free. They are open from 9am to 6pm.
Interspersed among these buildings are old warehouses that are now shops selling soft toys, souvenirs, ice cream, confectionary, and seafood. For a panoramic view of Otaru, go to the Le Tao, the corner confectionary shop across the No 2 Otaru Music Box Museum. Take the lift to the top most level and climb the stairs for the remaining way. The view is magnificent; it is also a quiet place to rest and take a breather.
More museums? Head for the Otaru Museum near the Otaru canal. Entrance fee is a mere ¥100. The museum is aptly housed in a former warehouse and has some interesting relics from the early 1900s.
A visit to Otaru will not be complete without heading for Sushiya Street, just after the Sun Mall arcade for some of the freshest sushi and seafood. Avoid the restaurants lining the main road, as these are expensive. Rather, go to the alleys for the hidden ones. We discovered an out-of-the-way, unpretentious restaurant in a narrow alley that serves up yummy, cheap authentic Japanese food.
Sankaku Market
This small seafood market is conveniently located to the left of the JR Otaru station. A popular activity among local tourists is looking for fresh and preserved seafood. Opened from 8am to 6pm, it is a good place to ogle over the famed Hokkaido giant crabs.