Otaru Canal

A historically rich landscape that conveys the prosperity of Otaru to the present day.

Otaru Canal, with its gentle curve stretching 1,140 meters, is lined with stone warehouses and historic buildings, making it a picturesque tourist spot in Otaru. Completed in 1923, the canal was originally used for small boats to transport cargo from larger ships. After its role ended in 1986, part of the canal was filled in to create walkways and parks. The northern side (known as North Canal) still retains its original 40-meter width.

A leisurely walk along the canal from end to end takes about 20 minutes. There are many cafes and restaurants housed in stone warehouses and old buildings along the way, making it a great place to stop and explore. At dusk, 63 gas lamps light up, and the warehouses are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere different from the daytime.

The "Otaru Canal Cruise," a popular activity, takes about 40 minutes and offers a relaxing tour of the canal with commentary from the captain. The changing scenery of the canal throughout the seasons and times of day is a delight to experience, and the views of Otaru from the boat are exceptional.

  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Nearest airports
New Chitose Airport Sapporo Okadama Airport Hakodate Airport Okushiri Airport Asahikawa Airport Wakkanai Airport Rishiri Airport Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport Tancho Kushiro Airport Tokachi Obihiro Airport

General Information

Postal code
〒047-0007 
Address
北海道小樽市港町
Telephone Number
0134-33-1661(Otaru Tourist Association)
Directions
●On foot: About 10 minutes from JR Otaru Station
●By car: About 10 minutes from Sasson Expwy Otaru IC
Website

Official site (Japanese)

* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

This attraction on sample itineraries

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