Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo in 1 Day — Guide Kate

January, 2025

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

  • 1. 10:00 – Greet the customer at Hotel
  • 2. 10:30 – Depart from JR Sapporo Station
  • 3. 11:10 – Arrive at JR Otaru Station
  • 4. 11:20 – Stroll along Otaru Canal (Chuo Bridge ~ Asakusa Bridge)
  • 5. 11:30 – Rest at LeTAO (former Otaru Canal Hall)
  • 6. 11:40 – Move to Otaru Sakaimachi
  • 7. 11:50 – Enter the Venetian Art Museum (1F only)
  • 8. 12:20 – Stroll along Sakaimachi Street (stop by and shop at 5~6 stores such as glassware shops and bag shops)　
  • 9. 13:00 – Rest at the same shopping district
  • 10. 14:00 – Shopping at LeTAO main store
  • 11. 14:30 – Stroll along Sakaimachi shopping district again
  • 12. 16:00 – Enter Otaru Music Box Museum
  • 13. 16:30 – Depart from JR Otaru Station
  • 14: 17:10 Arrive at Sapporo Station
  • 15. 17:20 Walk through the Underground Walkway ~ to Tanukikoji
  • 16. 17:40 Guide takes leave and heads home

Title: What Is a Private Winter Day Trip to Otaru, Hokkaido Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guest was a knowledgeable Japan enthusiast who had traveled to Japan several times before, visiting areas such as Honshu and Kyushu. When we departed from the hotel there was quite heavy snowfall, which was a little worrying, but fortunately the snow had stopped by the time we arrived at our destination, Otaru Station. Whenever snow fell from time to time, the guest cheered with delight, finding it very rare and charming. As the roads had become slippery, I demonstrated how to walk safely on winter paths. There are many shops selling glassware throughout downtown Otaru, and the guest looked at numerous stores with great interest. Since summer in the northern region offers beautiful scenery and delicious food as well, I encouraged them to be sure to visit again.

[Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

Click here for more details: Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1TrainSapporo Station～Otaru Station750JPY
Section 2TrainOtaru Station～Sapporo Station750JPY
Total1,500JPY

Tour Report by Kate

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

Request Booking

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…

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…

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…