Otaru Hotels

Top reasons to visit Otaru

• Scenic Otaru Canal: Stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, where charming historical buildings and vibrant nightlife create a delightful atmosphere.
• Local Seafood Markets: Savour fresh seafood at the bustling local markets, offering a true taste of Hokkaido's culinary delights.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit Otaru Kourakuen, Otaru Beer Brewery, and Otaru Aquarium for a blend of culture and adventure.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy skiing, tennis, and exploring stunning landscapes, perfect for family outings.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover the friendly Minami Otaru area, known for its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Otaru

Explore a range of delightful hotel options in Otaru, Hokkaido, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you seek a luxurious spa experience or a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community, Otaru offers a variety of accommodations, including the renowned Authent Hotel and Hotel Sonia. Immerse yourself in the area's hot spring culture while enjoying the unique charm of this coastal city.

• Sapporo View Hotel Odori Park: This 4-star hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience, situated 32km from Otaru. With a guest rating of 8.8, the hotel features an accessible onsite restaurant and a bar, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Guests can indulge in a delectable buffet breakfast, while entertainment options include multiple televisions with digital and flatscreen capabilities. For those eager to embrace outdoor activities, nearby skiing locations provide excellent recreational opportunities. The hotel's proximity to a metro station and city centre ensures easy access to local attractions, making it a solid choice for travellers.
• Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen: A 3.5-star lodging boasting a commendable guest rating of 9.0, Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen is positioned 32km from Otaru. This hotel offers a range of dining options, including a buffet breakfast and accessible onsite restaurant. Guests can enjoy modern entertainment features like flatscreen TVs and pay movies. Its close proximity to the metro station facilitates easy travel around Sapporo, enhancing the overall experience for visitors seeking both comfort and convenience during their stay.
• Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo: With a prestigious 4.5-star rating and a guest score of 9.2, Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo is the ideal retreat for those seeking a luxurious experience within 32km of Otaru. This hotel caters to ski enthusiasts, with quick access to ski lifts and shuttles nearby. Business travellers will appreciate the upscale facilities, while the elegant ambiance promises a refined stay. The combination of luxury and convenience makes this hotel a premier choice for those visiting the Sapporo area.

Where to stay in Otaru

Otaru, nestled in Hokkaido Prefecture, is a delightful city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Just metres from Otaru Station, explore the charming Minami Otaru neighbourhood, known for its scenic views and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque canals, savour fresh seafood at local markets, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this quaint town. Don’t miss the nearby leisure spots that offer recreation and breathtaking landscapes for a truly memorable experience.

• Sapporo: As the vibrant capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo is a bustling metropolis located a short distance from Otaru. Known for its diverse outdoor activities, Sapporo attracts visitors year-round, peaking in the summer and winter months. The city is famous for its ski resorts and shopping districts, making it a family-friendly destination. Must-visit attractions include the historic Sapporo Clock Tower and the picturesque Odori Park, while nearby onsens and hot springs offer relaxing retreats. The city's lively atmosphere is complemented by its rich culinary scene, featuring local delicacies such as miso ramen and fresh seafood.
• Zenibako: Nestled close to Otaru, Zenibako is a charming neighbourhood that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly experiences. With a moderate influx of visitors, particularly during the summer months, Zenibako boasts several attractions, including scenic parks and a peaceful river. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy shopping areas and skiing opportunities in winter, while the summer months invite leisurely strolls along the canal. This quaint locale is perfect for families looking to explore nature while being conveniently close to the amenities of Otaru.
• Hariusu: Situated in the vicinity of Otaru, Hariusu is a picturesque village renowned for its winter sports and adventure activities. The area sees a spike in visitors during the colder months, making it an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Alongside its ski resorts, Hariusu is home to soothing onsens and beautiful lakes, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. The village’s serene atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity amidst stunning natural scenery.

Things to do in and around Otaru

Shopping

In Otaru, visit the quaint shops along Sakaimachi Street for unique glassware and local snacks. If you're up for a drive, check out the Otaru Dream Beach area, featuring larger shopping complexes with a variety of gifts, souvenirs, and local crafts.

Recreation

Experience the serene ambience at Otaru Onsen, where you can unwind in natural hot spring baths surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese wellness with a calming shiatsu massage, or stroll along the scenic canal, enjoying the historic architecture and vibrant local culture.

Adventure

The Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway offers breathtaking views as you ascend the mountain, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Moiwa Ropeway, located 34km from Otaru, provides an exhilarating ride amidst stunning landscapes, making it a fantastic choice for adventure seekers and families alike.

Nightlife

In Otaru, the vibrant nightlife is highlighted by the charming canal area, where you can find cosy izakayas serving local delicacies. For a lively atmosphere, visit the various bars along Sakaimachi Street, blending traditional Japanese culture with a modern twist.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otaru

Otaru provides numerous free attractions, such as the Otaru Canal and the Music Box Museum, making it an affordable destination. For transport, utilise the local trains and buses to save on travel costs. Consider visiting in April or October to November when prices are lower, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare rates and consider package deals to maximise savings on your accommodation and activities.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Otaru are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Otaru is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Otaru is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Otaru is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Otaru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Otaru

Otaru is an ideal destination for outdoor family vacations, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the picturesque canal, enjoy the beach, or visit the marina. Key points of interest include Otaru Kourakuen, Otaru Park, Otaru Beer Brewery, and Otaru Aquarium, all of which provide a blend of cultural and adventurous experiences for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in the local charm.

• Otaru Canal: Stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, where quaint brick warehouses line the waterfront, creating a charming atmosphere. Enjoy the friendly vibe as you encounter local artisans and families, making it a delightful spot for leisurely walks and photography.
• Otaru Music Box Museum: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of music boxes at this unique museum. With its rich cultural ambiance, the museum showcases a vast collection of beautifully crafted music boxes, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and history behind these delightful creations.
• Bank of Japan Museum: Discover Otaru's financial history at the Bank of Japan Museum. This informative establishment offers insights into the region's economic development, featuring exhibits that reflect the cultural significance of banking in Japan.

Best time to go to Otaru

The best time to visit Otaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Otaru falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Otaru falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	20.3°F (-6.5°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	20.5°F (-6.4°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
March	28.0°F (-2.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	37.6°F (3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
September	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otaru

Flying into Otaru is convenient with three major airports nearby. New Chitose Airport (CTS) is approximately 72km away, with excellent hotels such as the 4-star Portom International Hokkaido, located 483m from the airport, and ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose, 5km away. Hakodate Airport (HKD) is about 159km from Otaru, with notable accommodations like the 4.5-star Bourou NOGUCHI Hakodate Ryokan and the 4-star Hanabishi Hotel, both 3km from the airport. Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is around 129km from Otaru, offering options like the 3.5-star OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts, situated 13km away. All airports provide various transport services to their respective hotels.