Otaru Canal
小樽運河
A picturesque 19th-century canal in Hokkaido lined with historic warehouses and known for its atmospheric winter and spring illuminations.
The Otaru Canal is a picturesque canal located in the city of Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan. It was built in the late 19th century as a means of transportation for goods and people, and now serves as a popular tourist spot. The canal is lined with beautifully restored warehouses, many of which now house museums, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the canal and admire the historic architecture and the charming atmosphere. The Otaru canal is also known for its illuminations during the winter and spring seasons making it a great spot to visit during the night. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Otaru.
Upcoming events at this place
Otaru Ushio Festival
This coastal festival celebrates Otaru's maritime heritage with parades, fireworks, and cultural activities honoring the harbour's role in the city's growth.
24–26 Jul 2026Otaru · Hokkaido
Otaru Snow Light Path
A winter festival illuminates Otaru's snow-covered streets, canal, and historic sites with handcrafted candles and lanterns created by the community since 1999.
7–14 Feb 2027 · Dates not yet confirmedOtaru · HokkaidoYou might also like
Otaru Glass Fair
Summer glass market featuring 20 to 40 studios from across Hokkaido, offering handcrafted glass items and hands-on experiences with an iconic illuminated wind chime tunnel.
24–26 Jul 2027Otaru · Hokkaido
SNOW MIKU 2027
SNOW MIKU 2026 is an annual winter festival celebrating Hokkaido with exhibitions, live performances, and a creators' market, themed around 'Happiness Pâtisserie.'
6–15 Feb 2027Otaru · Hokkaido
Otaru Umeshu Festival
An annual festival celebrates umeshu through tastings of classic and innovative plum wine blends alongside local plum-based foods, held at two dedicated Otaru brewing venues.
17 Apr – 6 May 2027Otaru · Hokkaido
Shiroi Koibito Park
This theme park and factory celebrates Shiroi Koibito, a famous chocolate sandwich cookie, through immersive exhibits and a projection-mapping presentation on chocolate history.
Sapporo · Hokkaido
Nemuro Peninsula Chashi Site
Ainu fortifications on Nemuro Peninsula's windswept cliffs, built between the 16th and 18th centuries and ranked number one among Japan's 100 castles.
Nemuro · Hokkaido
Sapporo Beer Garden
This restaurant serves Genghis Khan, a Hokkaido specialty of grilled lamb and mutton with apple and lemon sauce, prepared on a distinctive dome-shaped metal skillet.
Sapporo · Hokkaido