A Day Trip from Sapporo to Otaru: Your Simple Guide | Hokkaigo Blog

Hey there! If you’re in Sapporo and looking for a quick getaway, Otaru is the perfect spot. It’s a charming little port city just an hour away by train, with a historic canal, tasty seafood, and some pretty cool views. This guide’s got everything you need—how to get there, what to see, where to eat, and a few handy tips. Plus, if you’d rather skip the planning, check out our Hokkaido Day Trips for an easy way to explore Otaru and beyond.

Getting to Otaru from Sapporo

The easiest way to head from Sapporo to Otaru is by train. Hop on at Sapporo Station, and you’ll be at Otaru Station in about an hour and 10 minutes. It costs around 1,200 yen one way, and trains run all day, so you’ve got plenty of options. Just grab a ticket at the station or check the schedule online—it’s super straightforward.

Things to See in Otaru

Otaru’s got a nice mix of stuff to check out, and you can easily fit the highlights into a day. Here’s what I’d recommend:

Otaru Canal

Start here—it’s the heart of Otaru. The canal’s lined with old warehouses that are now shops and cafes. Take a walk along the water, snap some photos, and soak in the vibe. It’s especially pretty when the lights come on at night, but even during the day, it’s a must-see.

Otaru Music Box Museum

This place is a little gem. It’s full of music boxes from all over, some simple, some fancy. You don’t need long—maybe half an hour or so—but it’s a fun stop if you’re into quirky things or just want a break from the cold.

Mount Tengu Ropeway

For a view you won’t forget, take the ropeway up Mount Tengu. It’s a quick 10-minute ride to the top, and you’ll see Otaru and the sea stretching out below. It’s great any time of year, but in March, you might still catch some snowy scenery.

If you’ve got extra time, the Otaru Museum of History and Nature is worth a peek too. It’s got cool displays about the city’s past and its ties to the ocean.

Where to Eat

Otaru’s all about seafood, and you’ve got to try some while you’re there. Snow crab is a big deal—think sushi or a warm hot pot. Fresh scallops are another treat, super sweet and tender. Two spots to try:

• Kani Honten: Perfect for crab lovers. They’ve got it every way you can imagine, and it’s fresh as can be.
• Otaru Sushi: A laid-back place with awesome sushi—crab, scallops, whatever’s in season. Quick and delicious.

Grab lunch at one of these, and you’ll be set for the day. Book ahead if you can, especially for Kani Honten, since it gets busy.

Tips for Your Trip

• Dress Warm: March in Otaru can still feel like winter. Think layers, a good coat, and maybe waterproof shoes if it’s snowy.
• Comfy Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot—along the canal, through shops—so wear something easy on your feet.
• Check the Weather: Snow or wind can pop up, so take a quick look online before you go.

For your return, Otaru Station has trains back to Sapporo all evening. Aim to wrap up by late afternoon or early evening, and you’ll be back in no time.

Make It Easy with Our Hokkaido Day Trips

Want to skip the planning and just enjoy the ride? Our Hokkaido Day Trips cover Sapporo to Otaru with all the details sorted—transportation, guided stops at the canal and more, plus a chance to try that famous seafood. It’s a stress-free way to see the best of Otaru in a day. Curious? You can book a Hokkaido Day Trip here.

Ready to Go?

That’s it—a simple day trip from Sapporo to Otaru, packed with good spots to see and eat. Whether you’re wandering the canal, listening to music boxes, or digging into crab, it’s an easy escape from the city. Questions? Reach out at contact@hokkaigo.com or hit us up on WhatsApp. Can’t wait to help you explore Hokkaido!