Otaru, a charming port city on the northern island of Hokkaido, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and local flavors. Visitors can explore the picturesque Otaru Canal, admire exquisite glassware at the Kitaichi Glass Factory, and enjoy the enchanting sounds of the Otaru Music Box Museum. But the real highlight? Discovering the art of craft beer-making at the Germain Beer Brewery, where a refreshing tasting session awaits. This 1-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, allowing travelers to delve deeper into the city’s enchanting allure.
This experience was chosen for the top 20 Tours in Sapporo.
Key Points
- This 1-day tour of Otaru from Sapporo showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including the picturesque Otaru Canal and the Kitaichi Glass Factory.
- Visitors can explore the Otaru Music Box Museum, listen to the Aeolian pipe organ, and witness the unique Otaru Steam Clock.
- The tour includes a tasting experience at the Germain Beer Brewery, providing an opportunity to learn about the local craft beer scene.
- The tour offers a convenient 8.5-hour itinerary, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option.
- Highlights of the tour include guided exploration of Otaru’s cultural attractions, glassblowing demonstration, and a chance to create a unique glass piece.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
The 1-Day Tour Sapporo: Otaru & Local Brewery offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the picturesque city of Otaru and a chance to experience a local brewery.
Priced from $173.69 per person, the 8.5-hour tour includes a guided exploration of Otaru’s highlights, such as the iconic Otaru Canal, Kitaichi Glass Factory, and Otaru Music Box Museum.
Guests can also enjoy a tasting at the Germain Beer Brewery.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a flexible and convenient way to discover Otaru’s charms.
Itinerary Highlights
Guided tours of Otaru showcase the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural attractions.
Stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, a symbol of the city’s prosperous maritime history.
Visit the Kitaichi Glass Factory and create your own glassware.
Explore the Otaru Music Box Museum and be captivated by the sounds of the Aeolian pipe organ.
See the unique Otaru Steam Clock, a gift from Vancouver, Canada.
Enjoy a refreshing glass of beer at the Germain Beer Brewery/Warehouse #1 along the canal, providing a perfect ending to the day’s exploration.
Experience Details
Participants meet the guide at Sapporo Station at 9 a.m. in front of MYOMU to begin the day’s exploration.
They’ll stroll along the charming Otaru Canal, admiring the historical brick and stone warehouses.
After, they’ll enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Sakaimachi Street.
For those interested, there’s an optional activity to make their own music box at the Handicraft Studio for an additional fee.
Throughout the day, the expert guide will provide commentary and lead the group to the key highlights, ensuring an immersive experience exploring Otaru’s unique attractions.
Exploring Otaru Canal
Strolling along the charming Otaru Canal, visitors admire the rows of historical brick and stone warehouses that line the waterway.
This iconic canal, a symbol of the city, offers a picturesque setting for exploration.
Some highlights include:
- Marveling at the meticulously restored warehouses and merchant shops along the canal
- Witnessing the unique Otaru Steam Clock, a gift from Vancouver, Canada
- Enjoying the sights and sounds of the lively Sakaimachi Street nearby
- Exploring the Otaru Music Box Museum and hearing the Aeolian pipe organ music
The canal’s serene atmosphere and rich heritage provide a delightful experience for all who visit.
Discovering Kitaichi Glass Factory
After exploring the serene Otaru Canal, the tour continues to the Kitaichi Glass Factory. Established in 1901, it’s one of Otaru’s most renowned glassware producers.
Visitors can browse the expansive showroom showcasing intricate glassware, from delicate wine glasses to whimsical figurines. An optional activity allows guests to create their own unique glass piece under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Witnessing the meticulous glassblowing process is a highlight, as molten glass is expertly shaped and transformed. The factory’s rich history and commitment to quality craftsmanship make it a must-visit stop on the Otaru tour.
Visiting Otaru Music Box Museum
Next, the tour group ventures to the captivating Otaru Music Box Museum. Here, visitors are enchanted by the melodies of the Aeolian pipe organ.
The museum showcases an impressive collection of antique and handcrafted music boxes, each with its unique sound and craftsmanship. Some highlights include:
- Admiring the intricate designs and mechanics of the vintage music boxes
- Listening to the soothing tunes that fill the air
- Exploring the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to create their own music box melodies
- Marveling at the museum’s historical significance as a hub for music box enthusiasts.
Experiencing Otaru Steam Clock
The tour group then encounters the Otaru Steam Clock, a distinctive timepiece gifted to the city by Vancouver, Canada in 1994.
The ornate cast-iron clock chimes and whistles on the hour, delighting visitors with its Edwardian-inspired design. Its steam-powered mechanism, inspired by Vancouver’s historic steam clocks, makes it a unique attraction along the picturesque Otaru Canal.
The guide explains the clock’s history and demonstrates its operation, allowing the group to take photos and marvel at this charming intersection of modern technology and historical aesthetic.
It’s a captivating stop that offers a glimpse into Otaru’s heritage.
Enjoying Germain Beer Brewery/Warehouse #1
Leaving the Otaru Steam Clock behind, the tour group then makes its way to Germain Beer Brewery/Warehouse #1, situated along the picturesque Otaru Canal.
At the brewery, visitors can:
- Sample a glass of Germain’s signature craft beer
- Learn about the brewery’s history and brewing process
- Admire the industrial-chic ambiance of the former warehouse
- Purchase bottled beer to take home as souvenirs
After enjoying the brewery’s refreshing offerings, the group continues their Otaru exploration, ready to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and charming sights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
The tour provider does not appear to offer any explicit group discounts based on the information provided. However, they do note that reservations can be made for multiple participants, suggesting potential flexibility for group bookings.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can be customized to include additional activities, such as creating your own glassware or a music box. Guests can discuss these options with the tour operator when booking the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The tour is recommended for those who can comfortably walk and stand for the duration.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to reschedule with a full refund if needed. You can book now and pay later, giving you flexibility to change plans.
Are There Vegetarian/Dietary Options Available for the Included Lunch?
The tour operator offers vegetarian and other dietary options for the included lunch. Guests should notify the guide of any dietary restrictions when booking the tour to ensure their needs are accommodated.
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The Sum Up
The 1-Day Tour Sapporo to Otaru offers a delightful blend of cultural exploration and local experiences. Visitors can enjoy the charming Otaru Canal, discover the art of glassmaking, and indulge in the melodic tunes of the Otaru Music Box Museum. The tour also includes a visit to the Germain Beer Brewery, where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample craft beers. This guided tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the port city of Otaru and its unique attractions.