Otaru

The best time to visit Otaru is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) seasons. The weather is pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer (June-August) is also a popular time, but it can be crowded. Winter (November-March) offers a magical experience with snow-covered landscapes and the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, but it can be very cold.

Must-see attractions in Otaru include the Otaru Canal, the Otaru Music Box Museum, Kita-ichi Glassware, the Otaru Art Base, and the Sankaku Market. Consider taking a boat tour along the canal, exploring the various glass shops, and indulging in the local seafood. Don't miss the chance to visit the Otaru Museum and the Herring Mansion for a deeper understanding of the city's history.

Otaru is easily accessible from Sapporo. The most common way to get there is by train, taking the JR Hakodate Line from Sapporo Station. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Buses and taxis are also available, but the train is generally the most convenient and efficient option. From New Chitose Airport, you can take a train to Sapporo and then transfer to the JR Hakodate Line to Otaru.