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A tourist information hub in Otaru offering support in multiple languages.
The former Otaru City Tourist Products Plaza (Unga Plaza), which was located near the Otaru Canal in Ironai, Otaru, reopened on March 25, 2024 under a new name as the Otaru International Information Center at a new location.
The building features an open, airy design with floor-to-ceiling glass. Upon entering through the main entrance, the information center spreads out on the left-hand side. Pamphlets placed along the windows and digital signage make it easy to access sightseeing information about Otaru. At the expanded counter, staff members who speak English, Chinese, and Korean are on hand, and a wide selection of foreign-language tourist maps is available. The presence of a foreign currency exchange machine is another welcome feature for international visitors.
Inside the facility is Port Marche otarue, where visitors can purchase Hokkaido souvenirs centered on the Otaru and Shiribeshi areas, including processed seafood products, local sake, sweets, and crafts.
At the observation terrace, guests can relax while watching boats come and go in the harbor. Three container units within the parking area can also be used as rest spaces, and takeaway food is available for purchase. During the summer season, visitors can even enjoy jingisukan (Hokkaido-style grilled lamb) and alcoholic drinks.
Otaru tourist information center
A spacious information counter
Equipped with a foreign currency exchange machine
Shelves lined with sightseeing brochures
The on-site shop, Port Marche otarue
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are foreign-language brochures or signage available? If so, in which languages?
Not all materials are available in foreign languages, but brochures in English, Chinese, and Korean are provided.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available on-site?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available inside the building.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Yes, 12 lockers are available.
Q
Is tax-free shopping available?
Yes, tax-free services are offered.
Q
Is there a smoking area?
A designated smoking area is located outside the building.
Q
Are there any nearby sightseeing spots?
Otaru Canal, one of Otaru’s most iconic attractions, is just a 2-minute walk away.
The facility is very convenient as a base for exploring Otaru.
Q
Are there restrooms?
Yes. The facility is equipped with 17 women’s toilet stalls, 13 men’s urinals, 7 men’s toilet stalls, as well as a multipurpose restroom and a nursing room.
Q
Is there parking available?
An adjacent tourist parking lot with a total of 281 spaces is available.
Depending on the amount of your purchase, complimentary parking for 30 minutes or 1 hour is offered.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Super convenient location—you can usually spot it as soon as you get off the bus, which is really helpful if it’s your first time in Otaru. The staff are pretty friendly, and basic communication in English is totally fine. If you have questions, they usually answer patiently, and they’ll even draw you a map and circle the key spots.
Inside they have maps, travel brochures, and event info. Sometimes there are small exhibits or tourist info displays too. The place is clean and bright, and there’s a spot to sit and take a break, so you can organize your plans before heading out.
