Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal was created to assist the logistics of Otaru Port, which was an important gateway for the development of Hokkaido. Completed in 1923, this canal is special as it was built by reclaiming land offshore, and it features gentle curves rather than a straight line. However, over the years, part of it was filled in by 1986, transforming it into its current state with walking paths and park areas.
The canal stretches 1,140 meters in length and varies in width from 20 to 40 meters. The promenade is adorned with 63 gas lamps, and during dusk, the stone warehouses along the canal are beautifully illuminated. These warehouses have been repurposed into restaurants and shops, creating a charming blend of old Japanese elegance and new vitality. Especially, the glow of the gas lamps from sunset to midnight casts a magical light over the canal, delighting tourists as they enjoy nighttime strolls.
Otaru Canal is cherished by many as a highlight of Hokkaido tourism. Its historical background, beautiful scenery, and the surrounding restaurants and shops combine to create an attractive space. For first-time visitors, there are various ways to enjoy the area, making it a must-visit spot. When strolling along Otaru Canal, it is recommended to take your time and relish the experience.

Basic Information

Spot Name: Otaru Canal
Location: 〒047-0007 Minatocho, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Access: 8 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station on the Hakodate Main Line.
Parking: Please use nearby coin parking facilities.
Business Hours: Open for visitation.
Contact Information: Phone Number： 0134-32-4111　小樽市産業港湾部観光振興室
Official Website: https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/docs/2020100900367/

Map

Detailed Information

Otaru Port developed as the gateway to the colonization of Hokkaido. At that time, large ships anchored offshore, and cargo was unloaded using barges. As the volume of cargo increased, it became necessary to perform transport operations more efficiently. To lengthen the distance where barges could dock, the "Otaru Canal" was created by reclaiming land from the sea.

Completed in 1923, the Otaru Canal is characterized by its gentle curves, having been constructed not by digging inland but by reclaiming land offshore. However, as times changed after the war, the mission of the canal came to an end due to the development of the port's wharf.

In 1986, following years of disputes over land reclamation, part of the canal was filled in, and half of its width became a road, transforming it into the current state with promenades and city gardens. The canal stretches 1,140 meters in total length, with a width of 20 meters along the road parallel to the port, while the northern section (commonly known as the North Canal) remains at its original width of 40 meters.

Along the promenade, 63 gas lamps have been installed, and the stone warehouses along the canal have been preserved in their original form, repurposed as restaurants and other establishments. At dusk, as the gas lamps are lit and the stone warehouses are illuminated, the atmosphere changes dramatically, creating a unique ambiance different from that of the daytime.

#Townscape/Bikan Historical Quarter