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About Otaru Glass

The history of glass, its origins, are actually not clearly understood. The oldest glass currently recognized by many researchers is thought to have been made approximately 4,500 years ago (around the 25th century BC). The location is an area called "Ancient Orient," extending from the Tigris-Euphrates River basin, known as Mesopotamia, to the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. On the other hand, some researchers believe Egypt was the birthplace of glass, but recently, the theory that Egyptian glass was introduced from Mesopotamia has become more widely accepted.

Although glass has been used since ancient times in human history, its history in Otaru, now famous as one of Japan's leading glass towns, began with "oil lamps" as daily necessities and "glass floats" for fishing. In the late 1800s, with the start of Hokkaido's development by the Meiji government, Otaru became the center of Hokkaido's maritime transportation, and its population rapidly increased. Numerous financial institutions also established branches, making it known as the "Wall Street of the North" and developing into an international trading port. It was around this time that the glass industry began.

At that time, glass oil lamps, not electricity, were the primary source of light in Hokkaido homes. Glass factories produced lamp covers from glass scraps, as well as household sundries like bottles and goldfish bowls. Additionally, the manufacture of glass products developed, centered on "glass floats" developed for herring fishing, a major industry in Hokkaido from the late Edo period to the Taisho era. However, with the spread of electricity and the decline of herring fishing, demand for these products began to decrease.

The era of glass products as daily necessities and practical items ended, giving way to an era of producing craft items such as glasses and vases. The catalyst was Kitaichi Glass, founded in 1901, which began selling glass oil lamps as souvenirs to tourists, rapidly spreading the popularity of Otaru's glass crafts. Since then, many glass crafts with unique colors and designs, evoking a sense of tranquility and warmth, have been created. At the same time, many glass artists emerged, transforming glass from a mere tool into tableware like vases and glasses, leading to Otaru's growth as a glass town. There are over 60 stores in Otaru City that manufacture and sell unique works and souvenir glass, supporting the glass culture and brand.

Giving Otaru.

From "Former Otaru Warehouse" overlooking the canal,
UNGAPLUS brings you "Otaru's story,"
which has walked alongside the Kitamaebune (northern-bound ships),
and introduces "places to visit in Otaru."

Please enjoy Otaru.

Recommended Otaru Glass Shops

Otaru Sightseeing - Otaru Glass Shop ①

UNGAPLUS

Good fortune from Otaru, the port city...

May your luck open up,
empowered by the continuously preserved flow.

During the Meiji era, Otaru prospered as the gateway to the development of Hokkaido.
Kitamaebune ships sailed the vast ocean with their pure white sails, transporting many goods and cultures to this land through their trade with Honshu.

UNGAPLUS delivers original products carrying the history and culture that still remain in Otaru from the "Former Otaru Warehouse Main Building," the first commercial warehouse in Hokkaido built by Kitamaebune shipowners Sonzaemon Nishide and Shohachi Nishitani, along with quality products from the ports of call of the Kitamaebune.

From this place, the story of Otaru, which has walked alongside the Kitamaebune.

We look forward to your visit, with a selection of original items found only here, which make delightful souvenirs.

Otaru Sightseeing - Otaru Glass Shop ②

Kitaichi Glass

Kitaichi Glass, famous as a mecca for Otaru sightseeing, has 17 stores in the city, including its No. 3 Building glass gallery, as well as restaurants and cafes. Kitaichi Glass is not only a leading glass brand in Otaru but also grew alongside Otaru's modern history....Read more

Otaru Sightseeing - Otaru Glass Shop ③

Otaru Taisho Glass Museum

The main store of Otaru Glass Museum, which has 13 stores in Hokkaido, mainly in Otaru City, is the "Otaru Taisho Glass Museum." It is said that many excellent glass works were made in Japan during the Taisho period. The Otaru Taisho Glass Museum, based on the concept of "conveying the beauty of Taisho to the present," exhibits and sells a wide variety of glass products, including Japanese-style glassware that inherits the style of that era....Read more

Recommended Otaru Glass Products

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ①

Otaru Glass Floating Ball Glass

『 Asahara Glass Manufacturing Co. × UNGAPLUS 』

UNGAPLUS commissioned Asahara Glass Manufacturing, which continues to produce glass floats in Otaru Tenjin to preserve the technology, to create original glasses.

Otaru's glass history began with essential daily items like storage containers and "oil lamps," and "glass floats" for fishing. As demand for glass products decreased over time, they transformed from practical items to decorative ones, becoming deeply rooted in Otaru's culture.

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Clear
A warm glass reminiscent of old-fashioned household items, made from recycled materials in their original color.

Sea Blue
A refreshing blue glass that evokes Mr. Asahara's lifestyle, deeply loving nature.

Retro Green
A retro-style glass inspired by glass floats made from recycled liquor bottles.

Navy Blue
A deep blue glass reminiscent of the night sea, retaining the warmth unique to handmade blown glass crafted by artisans one by one.

Size
Approximately 8.5cm in diameter, 9cm in height
*Due to handmade nature, colors and sizes may vary slightly.
*Actual product colors may appear slightly different due to monitor settings.

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ②

Otaru Glass Otaru Retro Kiriko

Kiriko is created by first blowing glass into shape by a glass craftsman, then drawing guide lines called "waridashi" on a potter's wheel to mark patterns, and finally, a kiriko craftsman manually cuts the glass surface to create the design.

It takes many steps to create these beautiful pieces. The beautiful cuts reflecting light are stunning, and it is known as a luxurious craft. However, we have worked with Otaru craftsmen to create glasses that allow you to feel the retro townscape of Otaru in your hands, with the gentle undulations of handmade glass and somewhat nostalgic cut patterns.

The cuts etched into the simple clear glass sparkle gently. Enjoy kiriko that reminds you of "the good old days" while blending into your daily life.

Shop online here

Size
Approx. 9cm rim diameter, 9.2cm height
*Due to handmade nature, colors and sizes may vary slightly.
*Actual product colors may appear slightly different due to monitor settings.

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ③

Otaru Glass White Sail Glass

During the Meiji era, Otaru flourished as the gateway to the development of Hokkaido. Kitamaebune ships sailed the vast ocean with pure white sails, bringing many goods and cultures to this land through trade with Honshu.

The White Sail Glass is inspired by the sails of the Kitamaebune ships crossing the Sea of Japan. It is made in a seaside workshop in Otaru, a city of glass. You can enjoy the changing atmosphere depending on the color of the drink poured inside.

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Size
Diameter 8.3cm x Height 9cm
*Please note that each handmade item has a unique pattern and texture.

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ④

Otaru Glass Wind Chime "Summer Sound"

The wind chime "Summer Sound" was born from a commission to KIM GLASS DESIGN, a glass workshop located along the coast of Shukutsu, Otaru, for the production of the glass part.

A wind chime with a refreshing sound, fitting for the summer of Otaru, the city of glass, has been created. Enjoy the beautiful sound of crystal glass as the wind passes through it.

The glass, textured with a mold, is finished with a simple design using brass fittings and stainless steel cords. The brass clapper strikes the glass, producing a beautiful reverberation. The modest-toned paper strips blend into various interiors.

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Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ⑤

Otaru Glass Kagamimochi

Glass kagamimochi (rice cakes) from KIM GLASS DESIGN, a glass workshop in Otaru Shukutsu. Available in 2 types and 3 sizes each.

'White' with a sandblasted surface, giving it a texture like powdered rice. 'Clear' allows you to remove the orange and decorate it with rice inside.

They can be used every year and make a wonderful interior decoration.

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Types and Sizes
・White Small approx. 65×75mm
・White Medium approx. 85×95mm
・White Large approx. 110×125mm
・Clear Small approx. 65×75mm
・Clear Medium approx. 85×95mm
・Clear Large approx. 110×125mm

KIM GLASS DESIGN

KIM GLASS DESIGN is a glass workshop located along the coast of Shukutsu, Otaru. With thoughts poured into glass melted at 1,300℃, they meticulously create, wishing to bring smiles to those who hold their works.

Naoki Kimura, the representative, has served as the executive committee chairman of the Otaru Glass Market, held concurrently with the Otaru Ushio Festival, for the past few years. Despite his youth, he is leading Otaru's new glass scene. In 2017, he was selected for TOYOTA LEXUS NEW TAKUMI - Craftsmanship -, and continues to challenge himself daily, for instance, by expressing "Otaru-yaki" anew through glass.

The various expressions of beautiful glass born from reliable techniques are astonishing. From simple everyday items that have been stripped down, to beautiful craft pieces intricately patterned with the delicate sensibilities of the Japanese, and even playful, uniquely shaped sculptures, the breadth of expression is truly remarkable.

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ⑥

Otaru Glass Tanuma Glass

Glasses from Glass Studio Tanuma, a workshop in Otaru. Made using highly transparent clear glass, they shine beautifully.

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Flower Pattern Glass
The sides have vertical lines, and the bottom is shaped like a flower.
Size
Approx. 9x7cm diameter

Milk Pitcher
Small but with a thick base, providing stability.
Size
Width 5.5×5.5, Height 6cm

Flower Cutlery Rest
A flower-shaped cutlery rest. It contains air bubbles, giving it a luxurious sparkle.
Size
Width 5.5×5.5, Height 2cm

Ring Chopstick Rest
Slightly larger than a typical chopstick rest, it has a ring shape that cradles chopsticks.
Size
Width 3.5×2, Height 3.5cm

Otaru Sightseeing - Recommended Otaru Glass Product ⑦

Otaru Glass Recycled Glass

These are thin blown glasses made from upcycled car window glass from Hokkaido. They feature fine vertical lines and thin mouths, less than 2mm thick, crafted by artisans.

With a simple design that is easy for everyday use, the quality is not overly strict, allowing you to appreciate the individual differences in color and shape, and feel the warmth unique to handmade items.

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Sour Glass
Material: Recycled Glass
Size: Height 135mm, Mouth Diameter 78mm
Capacity: 430ml

Cafe Glass
Material: Recycled Glass
Size: Height 85mm, Mouth Diameter 85mm
Capacity: 345ml

Float Glass
Material: Recycled Glass
Size: Height 130mm, Mouth Diameter 85mm
Capacity: 300ml

Free Cup
Material: Recycled Glass
Size: Height 85mm, Mouth Diameter 85mm
Capacity: 345ml

Fukagawa Glass Art

Founded in 1906 in Fukagawa-ku, Tokyo. In 2003, it relocated to Otaru and has since continued to produce a wide range of glass products, from commercial tableware and household goods to high-end cut glass, faithfully inheriting the "blown glass" techniques established by its predecessors.

UNGAPLUS

Good fortune from Otaru, the port city...
May your luck open up,
empowered by the continuously preserved flow.

During the Meiji era, Otaru prospered as the gateway to the development of Hokkaido.
Kitamaebune ships sailed the vast ocean with their pure white sails, transporting many goods and cultures to this land through their trade with Honshu.

UNGAPLUS delivers original products carrying the history and culture that still remain in Otaru from the "Former Otaru Warehouse Main Building," the first commercial warehouse in Hokkaido built by Kitamaebune shipowners Sonzaemon Nishide and Shohachi Nishitani, along with quality products from the ports of call of the Kitamaebune.

From this place, the story of Otaru, which has walked alongside the Kitamaebune.

We look forward to your visit, with a selection of original items found only here, which make delightful souvenirs.

"UNGAPLUS" Details here