🏮 In-depth Introduction to Otaru Sakaimachi Shopping Street (Otaru City)

When you think of Otaru, the romantic Otaru Canal and its glasswork might be the first things that come to mind. But let me tell you, there's actually another must-see avenue in Otaru: Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street ! This tourist street, combining a nostalgic atmosphere, unique cuisine, traditional crafts, and exciting shopping , is a must-see for almost every first-time traveler to Otaru. Join me as we explore this in-depth experience for a truly enjoyable "walk, eat, and shop" experience! ✨

🏙️ The location and historical background of Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street

Located in the heart of Otaru , Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street borders the famous Otaru Canal, a short stroll away. Once a thriving commercial district during the Meiji and Taisho eras , the street retains a rich, nostalgic atmosphere, adorned with numerous stone and Western-style buildings.

As tourism has grown, this street has gradually transformed into a tourist and shopping avenue , home to glass craft museums, music box museums, famous dessert shops, and a variety of souvenir shops. For me, this is like a "living history street," where every step brings me to Otaru's past prosperity and present romance.

🛍️ The characteristics and atmosphere of the shopping street

Sakaimachi Street is approximately 900 meters long, with shops lining both sides. It's definitely a fun walk.

• 🏛️Historical buildings : Many shops still retain century-old stone warehouses or Western-style buildings, making you feel like you are stepping into a nostalgic time.
• 🏮Strong sightseeing atmosphere : The streets are spacious and clean, and tourists often take photos while walking.
• 🎶Music box melody : When walking down the street, you can often hear the melodious melody of a music box, which instantly fills you with romance.
• 🍦 Eat your way through paradise : soft-serve ice cream, grilled corn, croquettes, and other snacks are all so tempting you to bite into them.

🎨 Must-visit attractions and unique shops

Here are some must-see places on Sakaimachi Street:

• Otaru Music Box Museum Main Building 🎶
  • One of the signature attractions, the museum houses a collection of thousands of music boxes, and you can also make your own music box.
• Kitaichi Glass Museum
  • A representative of Otaru glass crafts, it displays and sells exquisite glass products, and the atmosphere inside the museum is super dreamy.
• Beiguolou, Liuhuating, LeTAO 🍰
  • Famous Hokkaido confectionery shops are gathered here, and popular items such as "Double Cheesecake" and "Fairy Forest Baumkuchen" can be purchased here.
• Souvenir shops and sundry shops 🎁
  • We have everything from Hokkaido specialties (cantaloupe, potato chips) to handicrafts.
• Ninja Experience Hall, Small Museum🥷
  • Small surprises suitable for family travelers make shopping more interesting.

🍣 Must-try food and recommended eating spots while walking

Sakaimachi Street is my "sinful place" because I can't stop eating along the way:

• Soft cream 🍦
  • Otaru's milk soft-serve ice cream is rich and fragrant, and often has up to three layers, which is very eye-catching.
• Fruit desserts 🍓
  • This dessert, made with seasonal fruits from Hokkaido, is sweet and sour and refreshing.
• Croquettes🥔
  • Potatoes are sweet and fluffy, and their warm texture is perfect for eating on the go.
• Seafood dishes🦀
  • There are sushi restaurants and seafood donburi restaurants nearby, and the freshness is top-notch.

🎭 Unique atmosphere and cultural elements

Sakaimachi Street is more than just a shopping street; it's a cultural corridor.

• 🎐Nostalgia and romance coexist : ancient buildings paired with music box melodies, taking a walk through it feels like traveling through time and space.
• 🎉Seasonal events : Winter illuminations and summer festivals bring the street to life.
• 👫A favorite stroll for couples : The romantic atmosphere makes Sakaimachi Street one of the most popular spots for couples in Otaru.

🚋 Basic traffic information

Getting to Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street is quite easy:

• Tram 🚆
  • From Sapporo, take the JR Rapid "Aporto" to Otaru Station , and walk about 10 minutes to the destination.
• Bus 🚌
  • There are direct buses from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to Otaru, and you can walk to the street after arriving.
• Self-driving 🚗
  • There are paid parking lots in Otaru city, but it may be difficult to find a parking space during the peak tourist season.

📸 Editor's Personal Tips

1. It is recommended to reserve 2 to 3 hours , as the food, shopping and experience are all worth savoring.
2. The afternoon is the busiest time , but if you want to take photos with fewer people, it is recommended to visit in the morning.
3. Desserts are a must-try , and I highly recommend LeTAO’s cheesecake, which is even more delicious when eaten right there.
4. Don’t just focus on buying , remember to look up and appreciate the architectural details, you will find more surprises.

🌺 Summary

Otaru Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street is a charming stroll that blends historical architecture, romantic atmosphere, unique food and shopping experiences .
Here, you can:

• 🎶 Build a music box by yourself
• 🛍️ Buy exquisite glass crafts
• 🍦 Taste the richest soft serve ice cream in Hokkaido
• 📸 Take beautiful photos of stone buildings and street scenes

I believe that if you haven't walked Sakaimachi Street, you haven't truly experienced the romance and charm of Otaru. This is definitely the most indispensable stop on your trip to Otaru! ✨