Sapporo
Day trip to Otaru
Neighborhood Discoveries • 6 hours
5.0
(12)
Day trip to Otaru
Historic warehouses, a canal lined with glass workshops and famous Otaru music boxes.
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- Hop on a train and take a day trip from Sapporo to the beautiful port city of Otaru, which you’ll explore with a local Sapporo host by your side
- Wander the historic canal, browsing shops and cafes housed in old warehouses along the way
- Meander through one of the town's markets, getting a feel for local life
- Grab a quick bite to eat from one of the eateries lining the canal, and sample unique ice-cream flavors
- See the city’s incredible glass blowing industry, or visit the Otaru Music Box Museum
- End things off with a trip to the Tanaka Sake Brewery, conveniently located right by the station!
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
6 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Private and personalized experience
6 hours with a host (including travel time)
Return train tickets from Sapporo to Otaru
Hotel meet-up (if within reasonable distance)
Walking experience once in Otaru (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)
1 glass of sake, beer or soft drink, carefully selected for you by your host
What’s not included
Additional food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Additional transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
In front of the Hokkaido-Sapporo Tourist Information Centre located in JR Sapporo StationCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
You’ll hop on a train to Otaru with your host, where you’ll see a side to Japanese history vastly different from the temples and shrines you’d expect – one of colonial architecture, old port markets, and steam clocks. You’ll stroll along the canal, an old-world promenade illuminated by the golden glow of oil lamps in the early evening and lined with old warehouses converted into antique stores and cafes, or hop on a canal cruise for a different vantage point. You’ll discover the city’s famous glass-blowing industry and shop for intricate souvenirs, see the Otaru Music Box Museum’s collection of 25,000 music boxes (or customize your own brand-new one), and sample sake at the Tanaka Sake Brewery before heading back to Sapporo.
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
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What travelers think of this experience
Alice
May 2025
Zarina was a great guide. She contacted me before we arrived to check if there were specific things we wanted or if we had any restrictions. She was so knowledgeable not only about Otaru but all of Hokkaido. We learned a lot and really enjoyed all the spots she took us to.
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Eric
Apr 2025
5* GYGFWWYRX8VQ
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Christine
Apr 2025
Leo was engaging and knew so much about Japanese culture. Being Australian, we needed help when purchasing tickets, shopping and generally made our trip to Otaru seamless. He helped us by explaining customs and no question went unanswered. Because he went above and beyond we were able to make our own glass ornaments and enjoy a lamb meal. We had a perfect day full of fun and wonderful conversation as Leo led us around Ortaru .
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Pamela
Mar 2025
Ryuki was the best tour guide! In Otaru, we visited glass shops from local artists and a shop of music boxes made in Japan. We also stopped at the Olympic Museum in Sapporo. Thank you Ryuki!
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Carmela
Jan 2025
Zarina spoke relatively good english so we communicated with her very well. She was very informative and gave us very interesting information about rhe places we visited. She also gave us options on what we wanted to see.
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Jack
Dec 2024
5*
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