In this 8-hour tour, you can visit both Otaru and Yoichi with a licensed guide and a private vehicle. The famous Otaru Canal and historical buildings, such as stone warehouses, contribute to the nostalgic atmosphere of Otaru’s townscape. Otaru is home to a large number of Hokkaido’s remaining historical buildings, many of which have been restored and converted into cafes and shops. Yoichi is a small coastal town located about 30 30-minute drive from Otaru. Yoichi is home to the Yoichi Distillery owned by Nikka Whisky. The town is also famous for its fruit, particularly apples, and is becoming increasingly popular as a wine region. Let us know what you would like to experience, and we will customize an eight-hour tour that’s best for you!
Highlights
Explore Otaru & Yoichi in 8 hours!!
Choose 3 to 4 places to see on your tour from the list!
Guided by english speaking guide!
Duration
8 hours
Offered in
English
What is included
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Private Vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from the list
What is not included
Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
Start time
7:30 am
Explore the charming destinations of Otaru and Yoichi in 8 hours, where you can personalize your journey by selecting 3 to 4 sites that best align with your interests. Whether you’re drawn to scenic waterfronts, rich history, or local craftsmanship, this customizable itinerary allows you to tailor your experience to suit your preferences. Enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace, discovering the unique charm of each location while creating an unforgettable day filled with memorable sights and experiences.
You can choose 3-4 sites from the list below!
Otaru Art Base
Otaru City's historical buildings of the early 20th century are now used as various resources for tourism. The Otaru Art Base located opposite the Otaru Canal across Rinkosen Street is one such facility. There are four historical buildings where 20 of the largest banks in Hokkaido were gathered, formerly the center of Hokkaido's economy known as "North Wall Street." What was the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch as seen in the picture is now home to the Nitori Museum of Art, and includes displays such as Japanese and foreign paintings, wood carvings, and more. In the basement you will find the Art Nouveau Art Déco Glass Gallery.
Otaru Sakaimachi Street
If you're travelling for pleasure, then you'll want to enjoy gourmet and shopping. Both can be done at Otaru's Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street, located on the inland side of Rinkosen Street, parallel to the Otaru Canal. It is a one-way street that stretches about 900 meters from North Wall Street to the Marchen Crossroads where you will find the Bank of Japan Otaru Branch. Both sides of the street are lined with old merchant shops and Western-style buildings. Nearby to the Otaru Canal, it is another very popular tourist spot.
Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura
Otaru may be known for its nostalgic influence of historic Western buildings and glass crafts, but there is also a spot that conveys the history of Japan from long ago. One of these places is the Tanaka Sake Brewery, founded in 1899. Many types of alcoholic beverages are manufactured here, including plum wine, sweet sake, and of course the beloved local sake of Otaru, Takaragawa. Because the cool climate of Otaru allows for the manufacture of sake year-round, the Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkougura is a great place to visit at any time of the year.
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Ski Museum
Anyone can enjoy strolling the various beautiful landscapes of historical Otaru. Overlooking this beautiful seaside city and the Sea of Japan is Mt. Tengu, about 15 minutes by car from the Otaru IC. The Mt. Tengu Ropeway can take you from the foot of the mountain to the very top, a total distance of 735 meters, in about 4 minutes. From the mountain summit you can even get a great view of the Shakotan Peninsula.
The Otaru Canal
The Otaru Canal is a staple when it comes to famous sightseeing spots of Hokkaido. Once the distribution hub of Hokkaido, it boasted a population that even surpassed that of Sapporo. At that time the canal was used to offload ships via barges and was established to lengthen the distance that goods could be distributed. Eventually the canal was no longer necessary to serve its function once the docks were established and was to be landfilled. However, it currently stands as a place for citizens and tourists alike to relax and enjoy with its promenades and gas lamps lighting the riverbanks.
Fugoppe Cave
About 5000 years ago, it is said to be a mural painting of the era when Jomon people were in Hokkaido. More than 200 mural paintings carved a mysterious human figure (there are feathers, there is a horn). Pursuit of wonder, traveling deepens.
Old Shimoyoichi Unjoya
The only such building still standing in Japan, the Unjyoya was a commercial building that served as a place for trade between Japanese and the native Ainu people during the Edo Period. Today, the Unjyoya provides an opportunity to learn about business during that period. Designated as a National Historical Site and an Important Cultural Property.
Space Apple Yoichi Michi-no-Eki
This road station offers a wide variety of juices and snacks unique to Yoichi, a town famous for its fruits. The most popular items are the handmade apple pies made with apples grown in Yoichi, and the gelato ice cream. Depending on the season, freshly picked fruits and vegetables delivered straight from the farm are available. Taste the local flavors and blow away the fatigue of driving.
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
During the free guided tour, Nikka's guides will provide information on the whisky production process and the history of Nikka. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy a complimentary tasting.
JGA
