Sakai-machi Street Shopping Arcade | Otaru Tourist Spot

Home ｜ Otaru Sightseeing Portal ｜ Sakaimachi Street Shopping Arcade

When it comes to sightseeing in Otaru, the "Sakaimachi Street Shopping Arcade" is a popular spot, second only to the Otaru Canal. It's a place that almost everyone visits when they come to Otaru.

Sakaimachi Street Shopping Arcade covered in snow, with tourists even in winter

Sakaimachi Street is home to nationally renowned establishments such as Kitaichi Glass, LeTAO, Otaru Music Box Museum, and Kamaei. Many shops utilize historical buildings, creating a charming and romantic streetscape. The approximately 900-meter street, extending from the Sakaimachi Crossing, affectionately known as "Märchen Crossing," towards the area around Iroinai Odori, once called "Wall Street of the North" due to the rush of bank branch openings, is bustling with numerous souvenir shops and gourmet spots, making it a lively shopping area for many tourists.

Märchen Crossing, located at the south end of Sakaimachi Street Shopping Arcade, is also a famous photo spot.

The "Jōyato" (eternal flame lamp) installed at the Märchen Crossing is a reproduction of a wooden lighthouse that stood on a hill in Shinkomachi, Otaru, during the Meiji era. It is popular as both a photo spot and a resting place.

The pillar clock of Otaru Music Box Museum at the end of Märchen Crossing

Facility Name	Sakaimachi Street Shopping Arcade
Address	6-11 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido
Access	Approx. 11-minute walk from JR Otaru Station, approx. 8-minute walk from JR Minami-Otaru Station
Phone	0134-27-1133
Business Hours	09:00 - 18:00
Closed	New Year holidays
Website	Click here for details

Giving Otaru.

From the "Old Otaru Warehouse" overlooking the canal,
UNGAPLUS, which delivers "The Story of Otaru"
that walked with the Kitamae-bune ships,
introduces "Places to Visit in Otaru."

Please enjoy "Otaru."

4 Otaru Sightseeing Itineraries | Time-Based Plans from 3 Hours to 2 Days

[Introducing model courses by time allocation]

4 Otaru Event Information | Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter Season Guide

[Introducing Otaru events for each season]

Otaru Sightseeing Guide | Otaru Sightseeing Information by Purpose

[Introducing Otaru tourist information from various perspectives]

Otaru Accommodation Guide | Hotels, Onsen Ryokan, and Guesthouse Information

[Introducing Otaru accommodation information]

Otaru Gourmet Guide | Local Information on Seafood, Sushi, and B-Grade Gourmet

[Plenty of Otaru gourmet information]

List of Otaru Tourist Attractions and Useful Spots

[Tourist Attractions]

[Historic Buildings]

[Markets]

[Temples and Shrines]

[Landscapes and Scenic Views]

[Shops and Souvenirs]

[Restaurants and Cafes]

Otaru Sightseeing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We answer frequently asked questions from first-time visitors to Otaru.

Q. How to get to Otaru?

The most convenient way from Sapporo is by JR Hakodate Main Line. The "Airport" rapid train takes about 32 minutes from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station. From New Chitose Airport, it takes about 75 minutes without transfers, making it easily accessible for tourists from outside Hokkaido.

Q. How long does Otaru sightseeing take?

If you want to leisurely explore the main areas around the canal and Sakaimachi Street, half a day to a full day is a good estimate. If you add glass craft experiences, the Music Box Museum, and meals, a 1-night, 2-day trip will be even more fulfilling.

Q. When is the best time to visit the Otaru Canal?

Dusk to night is especially recommended. The gas lamps along the stone warehouses and their reflection on the water create a quintessential Otaru scene. In winter (January-February), the "Otaru Snow Light Path" event is held, offering a magical atmosphere.

Q. What gourmet food must I try in Otaru?

Sushi, seafood bowls, and grilled seafood are particularly famous. Otaru has an area called "Sushi Restaurant Street," where many famous sushi restaurants are gathered. Also, don't miss local sweets like LeTAO's cheesecake and soft-serve ice cream.

Q. Where can I buy Otaru glass and music boxes?

Experience workshops and shops are concentrated on Sakaimachi Street. You can visit many shops just by walking along the street, including specialty glass shops like Kitaichi Glass and the Otaru Music Box Museum main building.

Q. Can Otaru's tourist spots be visited on foot?

Otaru Station, the canal, and Sakaimachi Street are all within walking distance (about 10 minutes from the station to the canal). Major spots are compactly located, so you can fully enjoy sightseeing even without a rental car.

Q. When is the best season for Otaru sightseeing?

Each season offers different charms. Summer (July-August) has mild weather perfect for strolling, and autumn (September-October) offers beautiful autumn foliage and fresh seafood. Winter brings snowscapes and the "Snow Light Path," while spring sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit.

Q. Are there hot springs in Otaru?

There are hotels and ryokan with natural hot springs scattered throughout Otaru city. Also, the Asarigawa Onsenkyo, about 30-40 minutes by car from Otaru, is popular as a quiet hot spring resort nestled in the mountains.

Q. Are there any spots in Otaru that families with children can enjoy?

Hands-on glass workshops (glassblowing, sandblasting, etc.) offer plans for elementary school children and older. Also, the Otaru Aquarium (Shukutsu area) is popular as a family-friendly spot where you can enjoy seal and dolphin shows.

Q. Are there any tourist destinations accessible for a day trip from Otaru?

Sapporo (about 32 minutes) is, of course, popular, as are Yoichi (Nikka Whisky Distillery, about 20 minutes) and the Shakotan Peninsula (Blue Cave Cruise in summer, about 1 hour). Otaru can serve as a base for widely enjoying the western Hokkaido area.

Item added to your cart

Reading Otaru