Hokkaido in One Day: Tenguyama Observation Deck — Guide Hiro
September, 2026
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.
Tour Itinerary
- 09:30 Meet with customers at Otaru Port
- 10:00 Visit Tenguyama Observation Deck
- 11:20 Visit Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura
- 12:30 Lunch at a ramen restaurant
- 13:30 Stroll around Sakaimachi Shopping Street and buy souvenirs
- 15:00 Stroll along the Otaru Canal
Tour Itinerary in Detail
The itinerary covered Tenguyama Observation Deck at 10:00, Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura at 11:20, Sakaimachi Shopping Street and buy souvenirs at 13:30 and Otaru Canal at 15:00.

Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Otaru Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The group rated the start of the tour very highly, as the clear weather allowed a sweeping view of Ishikari Bay and the city of Otaru from the observation deck, making it an excellent beginning.
At the Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura, the group was fascinated by the sake brewing process, enjoyed a sake tasting and comparison, and were satisfied after purchasing a sake gift set as a souvenir.
For lunch, the group was pleased that the ramen and gyoza at a ramen restaurant were delicious and reasonably priced.
The group strolled through the Sakaimachi shopping street and purchased many souvenirs at the music box hall and the glass shop.
They also walked along the Otaru Canal and took many photographs.
Overall, the group was delighted, saying the entire itinerary and the lunch were very enjoyable.
A notable stop on the tour was the Otaru Canal. The Otaru Canal is one of Hokkaido's most iconic landmarks, completed in 1923 to support the city's booming shipping trade. Lined with historic stone warehouses that have been converted into cafes, shops, and museums, the canal is especially picturesque in the evening when the gas lamps along its promenade are lit, creating a romantic atmosphere that draws many visitors throughout the year.
Click here for more details: Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
I have qualifications such as National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(EN00044)/The EIKEN Test in Practical English Proficiency (Grade 1)/The United Nations Associations Test of English (Super A).
I have tour guide experiences more than 100 times for such as free individual travelers, shore excursion(travelers of cruise ship),VIP and convention travelers.
As I was born and brought up in Hokkaido, I am familiar with everything of Hokkaido, such as hot spring (onsen)/ skiing, snowboarding, marathon/ ocean fishing/ sea food/ Japanese food cooking/ driving/ medicine & dentistry (I’m a retired orthodontist)
Sep 24, 2026
Masino
Wonderful Day
Viator review: Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Wonderful time with with a wonderful guide.…
Sep 24, 2026
Masino
Wonderful Day
Viator review: Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Wonderful time with with a wonderful guide. A beautiful day in Otura. We saw the highlights and our guide, Hiro, was the perfect host. He had exceptional knowledge and delivered a culturally rich experience to us. Since retirement, we’ve taken dozens of tours, and this one strands out as a highlight. Great memories. Highly recommended.
