Just got back from my first trip to Otaru with my girlfriend, and we only had one full day to explore. I loved how relaxed the whole city felt compared to Sapporo.
We started at a tiny local udon shop down a side street. It had a handwritten menu, steaming bowls of noodles, and the kind of friendly owner who chats with everyone like they’ve been coming there for years. It set the tone for the whole day.
After lunch, we strolled along the Otaru Canal. It was touristy but between the old stone warehouses, the little boats, and the reflections on the water, it still felt charming and worth seeing.
The highlight for me was the Otaru Aquarium. It’s not a flashy, modern aquarium, actually quite retro. But that gave it a quirky, nostalgic charm. We saw penguins waddling along a little outdoor path, seals playing in the marine park, and you could feed them! Which is ridiculously entertaining to watch. They even sold a local “Otaru Aquarium Otter Beer,” which we had to try, surprisingly good, and it made the visit even more memorable. The aquarium’s location on a hill with sweeping ocean views was the cherry on top.
Before heading back, we stopped at a small seafood market and finished the day with fresh sashimi. Sitting there with plates of tuna and salmon while the sun set over the port was the perfect ending.
Since we were short on time, I’m wondering: for anyone who knows Otaru well, what would you say are the absolute must do spots? Any hidden gems, seasonal events, or food I should put on the list for next time?
by john_wrot