A gentle early-summer breeze blows through, bringing a slight chill to the Otaru Canal. Strolling along the canal and watching boats slowly glide across the water has a charm all its own.
Otaru was once an important port and commercial city in Hokkaido. Shipping and trade flourished from the late 19th to the early 20th century, and the canal was built at that time to make transporting goods easier. Today, it has become Otaru's most iconic attraction.
Otaru Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street
Located just one street away from the main thoroughfare facing the Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi-dori flourished during the Meiji and early Showa periods, becoming Otaru's main street.
Many historic buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods remain on both sides of the street, creating a nostalgic port-town atmosphere. The shopping street has many distinctive shops offering Otaru glasswork, music boxes, sweets, sushi, seafood, and more, so you can shop and sample food while taking a stroll. The skillful blend of old and new buildings gives it a charm all its own.
Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label
Since going on sale in 1977, Sapporo's draft beer had enjoyed a strong popularity. The beer has many fans not just in Japan, but all over the world.
Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label is crisp and smooth, with a delicate malty aroma on the first sip. The bitterness is mild and not harsh, with a clean, crisp finish. It's especially satisfying ice-cold. It's also a classic favorite for many people. Its popularity comes from its balanced flavor and easy drinkability. It pairs well with yakiniku, fried foods, or Japanese cuisine. Having a glass at a gathering is refreshing and cuts through rich foods!
SuiSavon - Shuri Soap
Originating in Okinawa, SuiSavon - Shuri Soap is a beloved skincare brand with shops across the island, including its flagship store in Shuri, as well as at major shopping destinations and airports. Its signature product, the Botanical Handmade Facial Soap, is crafted from Okinawan plants and fruits and has earned a devoted following.
SuiSavon - Shuri Soap is one of my favorite stores. After buying and trying its products on my first trip to Okinawa, I became a regular customer. The store has quite a few popular products, but my favorite is their facial cleanser. Add water to the cleanser and gently rub it with a foaming net to create lots of dense, firm bubbles. The foam is fine and springy, and it doesn't disappear quickly. When washing my face, I slowly massage my skin with the bubbles. It feels very soothing, like giving my skin a gentle bubble massage, while also removing dirt and oil. My face feels fresh and comfortable afterward.
If it's your first time buying it, I highly recommend the hibiscus scent. It smells lovely and is their No. 1 most popular scent! I'm currently using the jasmine scent, which also smells wonderful. Its light fragrance makes washing my face every day feel very soothing.
