Otaru is a small city on Ishikari Bay, 38 km northwest of Sapporo. Otaru is a popular tourist destination because of its many historic buildings — including the 19th century Nishin Goten (herring mansion) — and its unusual landscape of high mountains dropping off into the sea. The city is built on any available flat land and extends up into the hills. During the winter, Otaru sees plentiful snowfalls, and locals and visitors enjoy skiing on nearby Mount Tenguyama. The summit of Tenguyama affords spectacular views, and can be reached by cable car year round.

Look for competitive rates on hotels in Otaru on EasyToBook.com. Find hotels convenient to one of the many pristine beaches or stay in a centrally located hotel in Otaru. Visitors enjoy eating Otaru’s famous fresh sushi, and drinking the local beer. During the day many people shop and enjoy the sights along the canal that runs through Otaru. At night, when the old-fashioned oil lamps are lit, the canal is the ideal spot for a romantic stroll.