Otarus Old Fishing Village Nature and History Short Trekking Tour

Otaru , Japan

Otarus Old Fishing Village Nature and History Short Trekking Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This approx. 1.5-hour trekking tour takes you to the Shukutsu area on Otaru’s northern tip to experience its dynamic terrain and history. While the course has some elevation changes, it is beginner-friendly and easy to walk.
Highlights include Akaiwa, a reddish-brown rock formed by ancient submarine volcanoes, and breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan from cliffs carved by waves. You will tour scenic spots where you can feel the breath of the Earth, looking down upon a harbor sheltered by breakwaters.
Next, we visit the Herring Mansion (Nishin Goten), a symbol of the prosperity this area once enjoyed. Through magnificent architecture built by fishery masters, you will feel the energy of those who lived by the northern seas.
To conclude, we head to a local seafood diner unique to this port town. Savor the bounty of Hokkaido’s seas, nurtured by the Tsushima Warm Current. We invite you to a special experience where you can appreciate the charms of Otaru with your eyes, feet, and palate.

Available options

Otarus Old Fishing Village Nature and History Short Trekking Tour

What's included

Guide fee

Travel insurance

Private vehicle fee

Lunch fee

Detailed itinerary

Otaru Station, the gateway to the port town and starting point for sightseeing, will be our meeting place, where you will meet the guide before taking a taxi to our destination.

Transfer by private vehicle. Orientation and preparation for departure.

・Beginner-friendly trekking course (Duration: approx. 1.5 hours)
・Walk through a scenic area overlooking the natural harbor from Akaiwa and the rock cliffs.
・Visit the "Herring Mansion" (Nishin Goten), a testament to the former prosperity of the fishing village.

Savor the bounty of the Hokkaido sea at a local seafood diner.

After lunch, transfer to the Otaru Station area.

The tour concludes upon arrival.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Otaru Station, the gateway to the port town and starting point for sightseeing, will be our meeting place, and from there we will take a taxi to our destination.

About Otaru

Otaru is a charming port city in Hokkaido known for its beautifully preserved canal district, historic warehouses, and vibrant music scene. Its picturesque setting and rich maritime history make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Otaru Canal

A beautifully preserved canal district with historic warehouses, shops, and restaurants. The canal is illuminated in the evenings, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Otaru Music Box Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and art of music boxes. The collection includes rare and beautifully crafted music boxes from around the world.

Museum 1 hour ¥500-¥1,000

Nikko Park Otaru

A large park with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a variety of plants. The park is especially stunning during the cherry blossom season.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaisendon

A bowl of rice topped with fresh, raw seafood. Otaru is famous for its high-quality seafood, making this a must-try dish.

Lunch Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies

Uni (Sea Urchin)

A delicacy in Hokkaido, uni is often served raw or in sushi. It has a creamy texture and a unique, rich flavor.

Snack Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies

Butter Curry

A rich and creamy curry dish that is a specialty of Hokkaido. It is made with a generous amount of butter, giving it a unique and indulgent flavor.

Dinner Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Onsen (hot spring) visits Café hopping Scenic walks Visiting museums Exploring historic districts

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February)

Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring the city's attractions, while winter provides opportunities for winter sports and experiencing the famous Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.

20-25°C in summer, -5 to 0°C in winter 68-77°F in summer, 23-32°F in winter

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Otaru is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of taxi drivers who may overcharge or take longer routes
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

New Chitose Airport • 40 km from Otaru

By train

Otaru Station

By bus

Otaru Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Buses are punctual and easy to use with English signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Canal District Sakaimachi Street Temiyoshi Street

Day trips

Sapporo

35 km from Otaru • Full day

Hokkaido's capital offers a mix of urban attractions, historic sites, and natural beauty. From the famous Sapporo Beer Museum to the picturesque Mount Moiwa, there's something for everyone.

Yochi Town

20 km from Otaru • Half day

A charming town known for its hot springs, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Niseko

100 km from Otaru • Full day or overnight

A world-renowned ski resort offering excellent skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. In the summer, it's a great place for hiking and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival • Early February Otaru Port Festival • Early August Otaru Cherry Blossom Festival • Late April to Early May

Pro tips

Visit the Otaru Canal in the evening for a magical experience with illuminated buildings and reflections on the water
Try local specialties like kaisendon (seafood rice bowl), uni (sea urchin), and butter curry for an authentic taste of Hokkaido cuisine
Explore the historic Sakaimachi Street for a glimpse into Otaru's rich history and traditional architecture
Attend a local festival, such as the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival or the Otaru Port Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
Consider renting a bike or taking a leisurely walk along the canal to explore the city at your own pace