Discover Otaru: Canal, Museums and Coastal Views

Otaru appeals to visitors with a range of interests: the city’s history can be seen along its curved canal and the former Temiya Line; museums focus on nature, trade, urban development, and glass. There are also viewpoints on Mount Tengu and marine life at the aquarium. If you’re looking for a hotel, you can start by considering which of these themes you’d like to shape your stay.

Canal and Railway History

Otaru Canal was completed in 1923. Its gently curving shape reflects the reclamation of coastal land to create the canal. The promenade is lined with 63 gas lamps. Stone warehouses remain largely in their original condition along the canal; some are now used as restaurants.

The former Temiya Line has a walking path about 1,600 meters long, running from the central city area to the Otaru Museum. The line was part of Hokkaido’s first railway, which was built to transport coal from the mines in Mikasa to Otaru’s harbor. The path’s length and railway history give it two distinct connections: it leads to the museum and also recalls the former transport of goods.

Museums and Architectural History

The Canal Annex of the Otaru Museum of History and Nature presents more than 1,000 species of plants and animals from Otaru through preserved specimens, photographs, and dioramas. The museum’s annex occupies the Former Otaru Warehouse, which is designated as a historic building. The Canal Annex also displays materials on Kitamaebune shipping, herring fishing, and Otaru’s development, including historical photographs and maps.

At the Bank of Japan Otaru Museum, you can experience the weight of 100 million yen using model banknotes in the former vault. The former Otaru branch of Nippon Yusen has a different historical connection: it is designated by the Japanese government as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

The House of Western Art occupies the former Naniwa Warehouse. It displays stained glass, glasswork, and furniture in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. The Stained Glass Museum exhibits about 100 stained-glass windows made in Britain that once adorned church windows. Together, these museums offer different ways to explore Otaru’s collections and architecture, from historical aspects of everyday life and trade to glass and design.

Views, Wildlife, and Boat Excursions

There are five viewpoints at the summit of Mount Tengu, with views of Otaru Harbor and Ishikari Bay. The Tenguyama Ropeway runs from the foot of the mountain to the summit; the ride takes about five minutes. Schedules may change, so check the timetable before your trip.

Otaru Aquarium displays about 250 species, including harbor porpoises, which are kept only there in Japan. Individual exhibits may change. The aquarium offers a different focus from the viewpoints on Mount Tengu: here, the marine life on display takes center stage, while the viewpoints look out over the harbor and bay.

The Otaru Blue Cave Exciting Cruising Tour runs from North Otaru Canal to the Blue Cave. The round trip covers about 26 kilometers and takes around 70 minutes. Availability depends on conditions, so check in advance whether the tour is running on your travel date.

Sakaimachi-dori is a shopping street for visitors, with glass shops as well as stores and restaurants serving seafood, sweets, and sushi. The selection of individual businesses and menus may change. Along with its museums and viewpoints, the street offers another focus for your stay in Otaru.

Discover more destinations: Higashikagura, Pippu, Asahikawa, Kamifurano, Monbetsu District, Shiraoi District, Toyotomi, Rebun District

View the wider travel guide: Hokkaido.