It was New Year on January 1st, 2026, and we decided to help a 1-day tour in Otaru (since we had nothing to do). Otaru in winter transforms into a picturesque port town blanketed in snow, offering one of the most romantic and nostalgic atmospheres in Hokkaido. Historic warehouses, stone streets, and the famous Otaru Canal are beautifully illuminated against the winter landscape, creating perfect photo opportunities both day and night. The town’s cold-season charm is enhanced by fresh seafood, and warm cafés, Otaru is an ideal destination for a relaxing 1-day winter trip from Sapporo. There are many places in Hokkaido that are waiting to be explored, do not forget, If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner!

First Destination: Otaru Aquarium

Located along Otaru’s rugged coastline, Otaru Aquarium is a popular winter attraction that offers a unique look at marine life in Hokkaido’s cold climate. During winter, the aquarium is especially famous for its penguin snow walks, where penguins waddle through the snowy paths, creating a magical seasonal experience. Visitors can also see seals, sea lions, and other marine animals adapted to icy waters, all while enjoying scenic views of the Sea of Japan.

The first show we watched was dolphin and seal shows located in a building inside the Otaru Aquarium area. It was New year so it was quite packed with tourists.

After enjoying the dolphin and seal show, we proceeded outside to watch penguin walk show, which is one of the famous attraction of Otaru Aquarium. Make sure you check the schedule to make sure you do not miss this show.

The penguin walk was held outside so it was a bit cold, so we decided to get back inside to the aquarium area. You can see many different types of sea animals, from shark, stingray, and even some river fish like Arapaima Gigas from Amazon!

Second Destination: Sakaimachi Street

We spent around 3 hours in Otaru Aquarium, and we were quite starving, so we decided to proceed straight to Sakaimachi Street. Sakaimachi Street is the heart of Otaru’s historic shopping district and a must-visit stop on any winter tour. Lined with beautifully preserved buildings, glass workshops, souvenir shops, and dessert cafés, the street becomes especially charming when covered in snow. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as LeTAO cheesecake, Hokkaido dairy sweets, and seafood snacks while strolling through the atmospheric winter scenery.

We first went to a LeTao store, famous for its cakes and sweets. There are many other famous sweets shops in Sakaimachi street, like Rokkatei, and other local shops as well. But since the time was limited, we only went to LeTao, this is because our clients love cheese so much.

After enjoying some sweets and shopping, we proceeded to explore the street a bit more. We were planning to go to the Orgel Museum, but it was closed by the time we get there. It was first day of the year, so the closing time was a bit too early. Even without visiting the museum, Sakaimachi street is still a great place to explore in the winter, specially during the evening time where the illumination mix well with the snow and old-style buildings.

Third Destination: Otaru Canal

After strolling Sakaimachi street, it was already dark and it was great timing to go to Otaru Canal. Otaru Canal in winter at night is magical, with snow-covered paths illuminated by warm gas lamps reflecting on the calm water. The softly lit stone warehouses create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere, making it one of Hokkaido’s most iconic winter evening scenes.

Denuki Alley Fire Watchtower

Along the canal, there is an old fire watchtower that you can actually climb. Denenuki Koji’s Hinomiyagura (Fire Watchtower) is a charming symbol of Otaru’s nostalgic atmosphere, inspired by traditional Edo-period fire lookout towers. Located along the historic Denenuki Koji alley, it adds a touch of old-town character and is especially photogenic when lit up at night. On the top of this watchtower, you can see great scenery of Otaru in the winter.

Here is the video of this 1-day tour if you are interested to see.