Hokkaido in Half a Day: Otaru Canal — Guide Toshi

Title: What Is a Private Otaru Walking Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report

The meeting time was set for 10:30, but since the guests were already waiting early, we started the tour at 10:15. Of the four expected, one had caught a cold and was absent, so there were three guests.

First, we strolled along the Otaru Canal. We looked inside the Otaru warehouses, and after I explained the history of the canal, we moved on to Asakusa Bridge. We took photos at the classic photo spot, then walked along the canal to Sakaimachi shopping street.

I explained about the shopping street in front of the Taisho Music Box Hall and had intended to give the guests some free time, but in the end we ended up going around together. At Kitaichi Glass, the guests purchased a cold sake set, and I helped with that. Kitaichi Hall usually has a long line, but no one was waiting, so we went inside and had tea. The interior, lit only by 167 oil lamps and stained glass, had a wonderfully romantic atmosphere, and the guests were delighted. They listened with interest to the story of how each of these lamps is lit one by one every morning.

They were also surprised by the steam clock in front of the Music Box Hall. We were lucky to hear the steam whistle announcing 12:30 exactly.

Then we walked to Tanaka Sake Brewery. The guests mentioned that they had made sake before and showed a strong interest in Japanese sake. First, we saw the sake-making process on the second floor, then went to the shop on the first floor. After enjoying various tastings, they purchased some sake.

Next, we took a taxi and the ropeway to the summit of Mount Tengu. The weather was fine, and the guests were delighted with the wonderful view. At 2:30, we officially ended the tour at the summit.

After that, I relaxed at the summit as well, and returned with the guests by ropeway and bus. Since the guests' cruise ship was docked for one night, there was plenty of time.

Click here for more details: Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

Tour Report by Toshi

Hello and welcome !
My name is Toshiko, a licensed English-speaking tour guide based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

Hokkaido is famous for its beautiful nature in every season. I especially enjoy introducing guests to the natural landscapes of this region, including peaceful parks, scenic viewpoints, and light hiking trails.

If you enjoy walking or hiking, I would be happy to guide you through some of Hokkaido’s wonderful nature spots while sharing stories about local history, culture and wildlife.

Of course, I also love introducing our delicious food and charming towns such as Sapporo and Otaru.

Please feel free to ask questions anytime during the tour.
I look forward to sharing the beauty of Hokkaido with you !