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Otaru Canal

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Otaru Canal

A scenic representation of the romantic city of Otaru.

4.30 5

Last update :
Head Editor : Otaru Tourism Association

Otaru Port, which developed as a gateway for Hokkaido's settlement, saw an increasing volume of cargo over the years. To streamline its transportation, the "Otaru Canal" was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The canal, created by reclaiming the offshore coast, is characterized by its gentle curves rather than a straight line.

After its role as a canal ceased post-war, the area has been revitalized with walking paths and urban gardens, transforming into a key tourist attraction of Otaru. Along the pathway, 63 gas lamps have been installed, lighting up at dusk. The stone warehouses along the canal, preserved in their original state, are now utilized as restaurants and other facilities. In the evening, when the gas lamps are lit, the warehouses are also illuminated, offering a charming, retro ambiance.

North of the Otaru Canal, the Kitakanal area features a wider canal and offers a quintessential port town scenery with moored boats and lined warehouses. A 40-minute "Otaru Canal Cruise" to enjoy the canal from the water is also recommended.

Highlights

  • The canal was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12).
  • A walking path along the canal has been developed, making it a leading tourist spot in Otaru.
  • At night, gas lamps light up, creating a different, charming atmosphere compared to daytime.

Photos

  • The gracefully curving canal.

    The gracefully curving canal.

  • The warehouses are romantically lit up at night.

    The warehouses are romantically lit up at night.

  • The evening illumination of the gas lamps evokes a Taisho-era romance.

    The evening illumination of the gas lamps evokes a Taisho-era romance.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Are there brochures or information signs in foreign languages? (Please specify languages if available)
A

There's a tourist information office at Asakusabashi offering foreign language tourist maps (no specific brochures for Otaru Canal). Languages include English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Korean.

Q

Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

Available at the Otaru Asakusabashi Information Center and Canal Plaza.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Q

Are there toilets available?
A

Available at Canal Plaza.

Reviews

5

Some reviews are translated by AI.

  • Rong Chen

    Otaru Canal is definitely a landmark in Otaru, Hokkaido. It has a great atmosphere both during the day and at night.

  • 吳思穎

    The Otaru Canal is lined with stone warehouses and beautiful street lamps, giving it a nostalgic and romantic vibe. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a coffee or some local food.

  • 江雪

    Walking along the canal feels totally different during the day and at night. Especially in the evening, when the warehouses light up, the whole place turns really romantic!

  • Alex Cai

    Starting from Otaru Canal, there are lots of great eats nearby like Otaru Canal Shokudo and Masazushi, plus plenty of other local food spots. You can also try a rickshaw ride or a canal cruise if you want. Really awesome place to visit!

  • 劉淑娟

    You definitely have to check out Sakaimachi Street, the liveliest shopping street in Otaru! ❤️

Details

Name in Japanese
小樽運河
Postal Code
047-0007
Address
5 Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Telephone
0134-32-4111（Otaru City Hall）, 0134-33-2510（Otaru Tourism Association）
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
About 10 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Otaru City Official Website (Japanese)
Otaru Tourism Association Official Website (Japanese)

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