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Top reasons to visit Otaru

• Charming Otaru Canal: Stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, surrounded by historical architecture and quaint shops, perfect for a leisurely exploration.
• Winter Sports Adventure: Nearby ski fields offer thrilling winter activities, making Otaru a great spot for snow enthusiasts.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover local heritage at the Otaru Museum and enjoy traditional crafts and local delicacies throughout the city.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking coastal and mountain vistas, ideal for photography and relaxation.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, many featuring soothing hot springs.

Find great hotels near Otaru

Otaru offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy hostels, catering to every traveler's needs. Many establishments feature relaxing hot springs and spa services, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With a welcoming atmosphere for all, including LGBTQIA guests, Otaru's hotels promise a memorable stay, whether you're seeking the best luxury experience or a budget-friendly option.

• Sapporo View Hotel Odori Park: This 4-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for LGBTQIA travellers seeking an inclusive vacation experience. Located approximately 32.2km from Otaru, Sapporo View Hotel Odori Park features modern amenities and comfortable accommodations designed to make your stay enjoyable. Guests can appreciate the hotel's commitment to diversity and inclusion, along with easy access to local attractions. With stylish rooms and a convenient location, it's an ideal choice for those looking to explore Sapporo while embracing a vibrant lifestyle.
• Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen: A 3.5-star gem, Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen caters to LGBTQIA travellers with its friendly and inclusive environment. Situated around 32.2km from Otaru, this hotel offers comfortable lodging with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests will appreciate the modern design and warm hospitality, along with a prime location that allows easy exploration of Sapporo's cultural gems. The hotel’s affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides guarantees a welcoming space for all visitors, making it a fantastic option for your holiday.
• Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo: For those seeking a luxurious experience, the 4.5-star Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo is a top choice. Located 32.2km from Otaru, this hotel is perfect for both ski enthusiasts and LGBTQIA travellers. With easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, you can enjoy the slopes during winter while indulging in premium accommodations and amenities. The hotel's sophisticated design and exceptional service create a memorable stay, making it an excellent option for those looking to combine luxury with adventure.

Where to stay in Otaru

Otaru, a picturesque city in Hokkaido, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Stroll through the charming streets of Old Otaru, where historical buildings meet modern shops. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. Just a short trip away, Aomori City awaits with its unique attractions. Whether you're exploring scenic vistas or soaking in the warm atmosphere of friendly locals, Otaru promises a memorable holiday experience.

• Sapporo: As the vibrant metropolis of Hokkaido, Sapporo lies a short distance from Otaru and serves as the region's capital. This bustling city offers a fusion of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and sports experiences, making it a popular destination year-round. In Sapporo, you can enjoy skiing at nearby resorts during winter or shopping in its lively districts. The city is also home to beautiful landmarks such as onsen (hot springs) and scenic lakes, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for visitors.
• Zenibako: Just a stone's throw from Otaru, Zenibako is a charming neighbourhood known for its outdoor and cultural experiences. The area attracts moderate seasonal visitors, particularly during the summer months. Here, you can indulge in skiing at local resorts or explore the cultural sites, including places of worship and serene lakes. The neighbourhood's welcoming atmosphere and proximity to onsen make it an excellent spot for families looking to experience authentic Japanese culture amidst stunning natural beauty.
• Asari: Nestled near Otaru, Asari is a quaint village renowned for its outdoor and sporting activities. Visitors flock here primarily from July to September, eager to hit the ski fields or explore local shops. Asari also boasts relaxing onsen and hotspring experiences, along with significant places of worship that reflect the area's cultural heritage. This tranquil village is perfect for those seeking an adventurous getaway while enjoying the serene beauty of Hokkaido’s landscapes.

Things to do in and around Otaru

Otaru is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can explore the charming Otaru Canal Park, enjoy sightseeing along the picturesque canal, and indulge in shopping at local stores. For those seeking adventure, the ski fields nearby provide excellent winter sports opportunities, making Otaru a perfect vacation spot for all types of travellers.

Shopping

In Otaru, visit the Rinyu Morning Market for a taste of local produce and souvenirs in a bustling atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, the Sapporo Jyogai Market, located 29.0km away, offers an array of seafood and crafts, while the Sapporo Crab Market, 30.6km away, is a must for crab lovers.

Recreation

Sasson Golf Club offers a tranquil golfing experience surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors. For a bit of excitement, try the Makomanai Sekisui Heim Ice Arena, where you can glide on ice and enjoy a fun-filled adventure.

Adventure

At Kiroro Resort, enjoy exhilarating skiing on pristine slopes, only 14.5km from Otaru. Ski Village Asari offers outdoor adventures and a vibrant ski atmosphere right in Otaru. For stunning views, ride the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway, perfect for family fun and adventure amidst beautiful landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife in Otaru at the Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck, where you can marvel at the stars. For a touch of culture, head to the Sapporo Concert Hall, perfect for a romantic evening. Don’t miss the Noria Ferris Wheel for stunning views and amusement.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otaru

Otaru provides numerous free attractions, including the scenic Otaru Canal and Otaru Music Box Museum. To save on transport, utilise the local trains and buses. For budget-friendly stays, consider visiting in April or between October and November, when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance or looking for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield savings. Aim for a Tuesday stay for the best rates, and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Otaru are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Otaru about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Otaru is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Otaru is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Otaru hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Otaru

Otaru, a picturesque destination in Hokkaido, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences perfect for families. Visitors can explore the scenic Otaru Canal area, which is renowned for its charm, alongside various attractions such as the Otaru Museum and local marinas. Whether you're seeking adventure or a taste of local culture, Otaru's diverse points of interest promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Otaru Canal: The picturesque Otaru Canal features charming historical warehouses lining its banks, creating a stunning backdrop, especially at sunset. Friendly locals and a family-friendly atmosphere make it perfect for leisurely strolls along the water, where you can enjoy the vibrant arts and crafts shops nearby.
• Shin Nihonkai Ferry: Experience the thrill of adventure at the Shin Nihonkai Ferry marina, where you can embark on scenic boat trips. The outdoor setting is ideal for beach lovers, offering stunning views of the coastline and the chance to explore the waters around Hokkaido.
• Asarigawa Hot Spring: Unwind at Asarigawa Hot Spring, where you can indulge in soothing thermal baths surrounded by nature. This wellness retreat provides a serene escape, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery.

Best time to go to Otaru

The best time to visit Otaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Otaru falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Otaru falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	20.3°F (-6.5°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	20.5°F (-6.4°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
March	28.0°F (-2.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	37.6°F (3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
September	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otaru

To reach Otaru, you can fly into two major airports in Hokkaido. New Chitose Airport (CTS) is situated 72.4km away, with nearby hotel options like the 4-star Portom International Hokkaido, only 483m from the airport, and the 4-star ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose, located 4.8km away. Alternatively, Okadama Airport (OKD) is 32.2km from Otaru, with excellent hotels such as the 4.5-star Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo and Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo, both 6.4km away. The JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo is another great option, located 4.8km from Okadama Airport.