We had one day in Otaru. A whole 24 hours to explore this northern port city in Hokkaido before hopping aboard a ferry to continue our journey across Japan. So in this episode, we’re going to hit some of Otaru’s main attractions. That means visiting Kitaichi Hall which is illuminated only by petroleum lamps, sipping local Otaru beer, sampling some sake, and a few other surprises along the way. So join us in Otaru, Japan for 24 hours!
🇯🇵 Otaru Travel Guide | Things to do in Otaru, Japan 🇯🇵
00:42 – Beef Cutlet Otaru Kurosawa for Lunch
03:05 – Warehouse District and Glass Shops
04:54 – Otaru Beer
08:38 – Otaru Canal Boat Cruise
11:25 – Plumhouse Guesthouse Tour
12:33 – Otaru Steamwhistle Clock
13:58 – Otaru Music Box Museum
16:34 – Kitaichi Hall Gas Lamp Cafe
19:28 – Sake Tasting
21:53 – Otaru Final Thoughts
#otaru #hokkaido #japantravel
HOW YOU CAN HELP
🙏 Patreon:
🧱 Buy us a Brick:
❤️ Like, share, subscribe and comment so the videos can reach more people.
SOCIAL MEDIA & TRAVEL BLOGS
AUDREY:
blog:
instagram:
SAMUEL:
blog: and
Our adventure in Otaru, a charming port city on the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan, was a whirlwind of cultural experiences and culinary delights, packed into a single day. With only 24 hours to immerse ourselves in the beauty and uniqueness of Otaru before boarding a ferry to continue our exploration of Japan, we aimed to experience as much as possible.
This episode of our travel series focuses on Otaru’s most famous attractions, blending historical insights with local flavors. Our journey began at the Beef Cutlet Otaru Kurosawa, a renowned local eatery where we indulged in sumptuous beef cutlets, a perfect blend of crispy breading and tender, flavorful meat, a true testament to the culinary craftsmanship of Otaru.
As we wandered through Otaru’s historic Warehouse District, we were mesmerized by the quaint charm of the old buildings, now repurposed into chic boutiques and glass shops. These shops are famous for their intricate glassware, a specialty of Otaru.
A highlight of our visit was the Otaru Beer brewery, an establishment that prides itself on brewing beer using traditional German techniques. The distinct flavors of their beers, ranging from classic pilsners to rich stouts, provided a delightful contrast to the more familiar Japanese beer brands.
A boat cruise along the Otaru Canal offered a different perspective of the city. The serene waterway, lined with old warehouses and lit by gas lamps, exuded a nostalgic charm. This peaceful cruise allowed us to appreciate the slower pace of life in Otaru, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Tokyo.
The Plumhouse Guesthouse, where we briefly stayed, was a cozy and welcoming place that offered insight into traditional Japanese hospitality. The guesthouse, with its warm wooden interiors and comfortable tatami rooms, provided a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
One of the most enchanting stops was the Otaru Steamwhistle Clock, a unique timepiece that combines functionality with artistry. This clock is not just a way to tell time; it’s a symbol of Otaru’s industrial past, blending seamlessly with the city’s modern rhythm.
Our visit to the Otaru Music Box Museum was a journey into a world of whimsy and nostalgia. The museum, with its extensive collection of intricately designed music boxes, some dating back to the 19th century, showcased the city’s artistic heritage. The tinkling melodies of the music boxes created an atmosphere of enchantment, transporting us back in time.
An evening visit to the Kitaichi Hall Gas Lamp Cafe was like stepping into another era. The hall, lit solely by petroleum lamps, offered an ambient setting reminiscent of the early 20th century. The warm glow of the lamps, combined with the aroma of fresh coffee, created an unforgettable sensory experience.
Our culinary journey continued with a sake tasting session. Sampling various types of sake, each with its unique flavor profile, we gained a deeper appreciation for this traditional Japanese beverage. The local brewers’ passion for sake making, along with their commitment to quality, was evident in every sip.
As our day in Otaru came to a close, we reflected on our experiences in this enchanting city. From the delicious local cuisine and the historical sites to the warm hospitality of its people, Otaru left an indelible mark on our hearts. Our final thoughts on this quaint port city were filled with gratitude for the rich cultural tapestry we had the opportunity to experience, even if just for 24 hours.
Music We Use: ..(read more)
CHECK OUT MORE: Travel Guides
EXPLORE: Top Travel Destinations
