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

  • 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.

Transportation cost per person

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

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