This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 09:50 Meet at Otaru Port Cruise Ship Terminal. Distribute booklets. Explanation of tour route
- 10:10 Former Otaru Canal Central Bridge Plaza. Explanation of the canal. Photo taking
- 10:30 Former Canal Plaza (currently LeTAO confectionery store) Tasting & Restroom
- 11:00 Start strolling through Sakaimachi Shopping Street (Stops: several glass shops, only the 1st floor of the Venetian Art Museum, Kitaichi Glass Store No. 3, LeTAO main store, entry to the Music Box Museum)
- 12:30 Lunch at Kitaichi Glass Store No. 3 dining hall
- 13:00 Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura. Entry & tour. Long-established store (free) Taxi transfer
- 13:50 Cruise Ship Terminal. Send-off
What Is a Private Walking Tour in Hokkaido Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The weather was slightly overcast and cool, as it came just after the first snowfall of the season in the fields and mountains of Hokkaido. One of the guests served as the tour leader. The guests had become acquainted with the others aboard a ship. A friendly rapport had already formed among the guests, and the conversation flowed easily. Some of the guests mentioned that they were still working. The guests appeared to enjoy the walking tour energetically. After lunch, some of the guests left the tour partway through, so I saw them off along the way.
Click here for more details: Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Hello! Welcome to Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan. My name is Katsuko Kemanai, a female guide. I would be happy to serve you as a local tourist guide.
I live in Sapporo, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. I know you are a guest of a luxurious ocean liner. You will visit Otaru on April 21. Otaru is a port city, known for its tasty seafood. The city was once an economic hub of Hokkaido. You will see the former canal, Sakaimachi Street, where a lot of sushi bars, glass-blowing studios, museums, and gift shops. While in the suburbs, Mt. Tengu or Shukutsu Peninsular, where you will have a panoramic view including an ocean view. Please entertain yourself on the luxurious passenger boat. These spots will certainly entertain you. I look forward to seeing you.
Sincerely yours,
Guide Katsuko Kemanai
Feb 7, 2025
Stay38335184325
A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Our…
Feb 7, 2025
Stay38335184325
A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Our guide, Kate was very informative and knew the best places to take us as we visited
during winter. It was very cold, windy and icy, but she managed to get us around safely.
Dec 27, 2024
G
G5102BEannied
Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We had an experienced tour guide…
Dec 27, 2024
G
G5102BEannied
Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We had an experienced tour guide who gave us a good history of sapporo and explained some of the areas we passed by. A great place with a lot of winter magic place.. snow is powdery and illumination is everywhere.. great experience! Thank you mam Kate (Katsuko Kemanai)
Oct 30, 2024
Clarice W
A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Katsuko-san…
Oct 30, 2024
Clarice W
A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Katsuko-san is patient, knowledgeable, polite and extremely helpful. Well-versed in English,
she is enjoying every moment of her profession to serve with distinction and
professionalism. Thank you, we enjoyed the walking tour👍