Otaru Holidays

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.

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

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.