Chilly Stroll Through Otaru’s Canals and Koinobori

Sailing into Otaru cruise port (小樽市 – Pronounced [oh-tah-roo]) in early spring offered a cool and quiet welcome to Hokkaido’s coastal charm. This small port city sits northwest of Sapporo and has a reputation for its scenic canal, nostalgic architecture, and artistic flair.

Otaru was once a major trade hub in the early 20th century and many of its stone warehouses from that era have been preserved and repurposed into shops and galleries. While the port itself isn’t large, it’s conveniently located near the city’s walkable center, making it easy to explore on a short visit.

With just a few hours in port and overcast skies above, I decided to stay close and explore on foot rather than venture inland. The vibe was quiet but distinctly local.

The main shopping street near the port offered a laid-back stroll past boutique storefronts, cozy cafés, and colorful touches that popped against the gray sky. One small café decorated with Hello Kitty designs stood out, as did a nearby statue of a dog wrapped in hand-knitted winter wear. These whimsical touches gave Otaru a personality that felt both playful and proud of its traditions.

High above the street, I spotted brightly colored koinobori streamers swaying in the breeze. These carp-shaped flags are displayed during spring to celebrate Children’s Day in Japan and seeing them ripple against the moody sky was one of the highlights of my visit. They felt like a burst of joy in an otherwise subdued day.

Farther down, the canal area provided peaceful views framed by stone embankments and decorative lanterns. A small bamboo water feature near one building added a natural touch, and I noticed a bit of snow still clinging to the shadows. With the snowy hills looming behind the city, Otaru felt like a calm postcard from another era. I didn’t shop or venture far, but sometimes a slow walk is enough.