Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal is the centerpiece of Otaru's historic warehouse district. Built in 1923 to help offload cargo from large ships, the canal is now a scenic walkway lined with converted stone and brick warehouses that house restaurants, galleries, and glass shops. The canal is particularly beautiful at dusk when 63 gas lamps illuminate the pathway, creating romantic reflections in the water. A pedestrian walkway runs along the canal for about 1.1 kilometers. Otaru is also famous for its glass workshops, music box museum, and exceptionally fresh sushi. The canal area is a ten-minute walk from JR Otaru Station, which is about 30 minutes from Sapporo by rapid train.