Otaru Canal Cruise | Review by Gina C

Otaru Canal Cruise

The canal cruise, offering different pleasures depending on the time of day, is a must-do activity in Otaru, famous for its historical buildings by day and stunning nightscapes by evening.

15 Nov 2026 See More

In Otaru, Hokkaido, of course you can't miss taking an Otaru Canal cruise! This time, I specifically planned a boat ride to enjoy the scenery of the Otaru Canal from a different perspective, and it felt very different from simply walking along the canal. After boarding the cruise boat, it slowly made its way along the canal. On both sides, you could see historic red-brick warehouses and rows of buildings that have retained their vintage style, making it feel as though you had stepped back into Otaru's past.

On the boat, you can listen to the guide explain the history of the Otaru Canal while enjoying the scenery along the way. The entire experience is quite relaxing. As the boat slowly moves forward, the view from the water has a special charm and is completely different from what you see on shore.

Other Reviews by Gina C

LeTAO Otaru Main Store

Known for its "Fromage Double" cheesecake made from Hokkaido-produced fresh cream and carefully selected mascarpone cheese, this confectionery store in Otaru enjoys nationwide popularity. Located at the tourist-frequented Märchen Crossroads in Otaru, LeTAO Main Store opened in 1998. The store's name, meaning "Dear Tower of Otaru," is reflected in its impressive European-style exterior reminiscent of a large tower.
- Otaru and Niseko
- Cafés
15 Nov 2026 See More

On Otaru's Sakaimachi Shopping Street, you definitely can't miss the famous LeTAO Main Store! You can spot its European-style building from a distance. The exterior is quite elegant, and the entire building has a distinctive look. It's especially beautiful with the cherry blossoms. LeTAO is best known for its Double Fromage cheesecake, a popular dessert souvenir that many people buy when visiting Hokkaido.

Once inside, you'll find a wide variety of sweets. In addition to its signature cheesecake, there are cookies, chocolates, and all kinds of delicate desserts. Everything looks so tempting that you can't help but take a few extra looks. You can also sample desserts in the store, and browsing around really gives you the atmosphere of a Hokkaido dessert shop.
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.
- Otaru and Niseko
- Shopping Streets
15 Nov 2026 See More

When visiting Otaru, you should definitely take a walk along Sakaimachi Shopping Street. There are so many souvenir shops here, and the entire street has a lively tourist atmosphere! Along the way, you'll see all kinds of Hokkaido specialties, including cookies, chocolates, and desserts, as well as quite a few specialty stores from well-known brands. Each shop sells something a little different, and there's so much to look at.

Walking along the shopping street this time, I couldn't help wanting to go into every shop. Whenever I saw a souvenir I liked, I wanted to buy it and take it home. The Hokkaido-exclusive desserts and cookies were especially tempting.
Grapestone “Tokyo Banana Mitsuketa (found)”

“Tokyo Banana” was created in 1991 and has become a major souvenir from Tokyo. The fluffy sponge cake has a filling of pureed banana custard cream.
- Tokyo
- Snacks
15 Nov 2026 See More

It's shaped like a small, cute banana, and just looking at it makes it feel very appealing. It's also great as a gift. The outer cake is soft and fluffy, with a rich banana custard filling inside. With the first bite, you get a burst of banana aroma and a very rich flavor. The sweet filling paired with the fluffy cake makes it such a comforting treat.