Otaru Canal

小樽運河

Otaru Canal was completed in 1923 and was once a busy hub of the port city of Otaru. The 1,140-meter waterway is lined with old stone warehouses, many of which are now cafes and restaurants. In the 1960s there was a plan to fill it in for a road, but after a preservation movement half of the canal was kept. The northern part keeps its original 40-meter width, and walking paths run along the southern part. In the evening, 63 gas lamps light up along the water.

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Visitor information

Getting there

About 10 minutes on foot from JR Otaru Station.

By car, about 10 minutes from the Otaru IC of the Sasson Expressway.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

At dusk, 63 gas lamps along the canal are lit.
Many of the old warehouses along the canal are now cafes and restaurants.
For information, contact the Otaru Tourist Association: 0134-33-1661.

Tips for Muslim visitors

In Otaru, the Hokkaido Tourism Organization lists a prayer space at the restaurant Donburi Chaya, Otaru Sakaimachi street shop (3-24 Sakai-machi), open 11:30-20:00.
Old streets are lined with small shops and food stalls. Ask about pork and alcohol before buying snacks.
Many old houses are private homes. Do not enter them or take photos of residents without permission.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Hokkaido and the verified places to pray nearby.