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This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I will only recommend products that I have personally used! Learn more on my Private Policy page.
Last weekend, we had the pleasure of visiting Otaru, a charming city on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. Our trip was filled with fascinating marine life and relaxing accommodations, making it an experience to remember. Here’s a detailed account of my adventure.
Exploring Otaru Aquarium
Our first stop was the Otaru Aquarium, a popular attraction known for its diverse marine life and interactive exhibits. The aquarium is located by the sea, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. As I walked through the entrance, I was immediately captivated by the variety of sea creatures on display.
One of the highlights was the large tank housing various species of fish, including some native to Hokkaido. Watching the fish swim gracefully was a calming experience. I also enjoyed the seal and dolphins performance which were delightful, showcasing the intelligence and agility of these amazing animals.
A unique feature of the Otaru Aquarium is the outdoor marine park. Here, I saw seals and sea lions in a more natural setting, which was a refreshing change from the usual indoor exhibits. The touch pool was another favorite, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with starfish and sea urchins.
For a fee of 500 yen, you can also feed the seals.
Our lunch 🙂 Ankake Yakisoba (Japanese dish consisting of stir-fried noodles topped with a thick, savory sauce) , Okosama lunch (Kids plate) and Katsu Curry (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet (known as “tonkatsu”) with a flavorful curry sauce and rice.
Near the entrance, there are two nursing rooms for you. You can prepare baby formula, including hot water dispensers, sinks, and counter space for mixing and preparing the formula.
Part of the Otaru Aquarium, there is Shukutsu Marine Land, the amusement park. One unique aspect of Shukutsu Marine Land is that there is no entrance fee. Instead, visitors can purchase ride tickets (or ticket books) for the attractions they wish to enjoy. While some rides have height restrictions, the park is well-suited for young children, making it a perfect destination for families. Even children as young as three years old can find plenty to enjoy in this cozy and charming amusement park.
The scenic coastal location of Shukutsu Marine Land offers stunning views of the sea, making it a popular destination for families and tourists looking to explore the natural beauty and marine biodiversity of Hokkaido.
100yen to try this car!
200yen to ride on the panda bear:)
Why not you want to have ice cream out of the bending machine;)
We both loved the go-cart:) 300 yen to try for 2ppl
Staying at Dormy Inn Otaru
Another Kyoritsu Maintenance Hotel, last time we stayed at La Vista Furano Hills and this time, we stayed at Dormy Inn Otaru. After a day of exploring the aquarium, we checked into Dormy Inn Otaru, a hotel conveniently located near Otaru Station and Don Quixote where you can find pretty mush anything for good deals.
O room was cozy and well-equipped, providing all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. There were mango pudding for welcoming sweets. One of the best features of Dormy Inn Otaru is the natural hot spring bath. After a long day, soaking in the hot spring was the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. The bath area was clean and beautifully designed, offering a serene environment to unwind. After enjoying onsen, you don’t want to miss their complimentary ice cream too.
In the evening, you can enjoy a complimentary bowl of Yonaki Soba, a light ramen dish served to hotel guests. It was a pleasant surprise and a great way to end the day. The hotel’s breakfast buffet the next morning was equally impressive, with a wide variety of delicious Japanese and Western dishes to choose from.
Sushi for Dinner
Otaru is famous for seafood that there are so many sushi restaurants around the town. As my daughter is 9month old, it is better if we had tatami floor when we eat which often you can find at Japanese restaurants and we love sushi, so sushi it is!
We went to Yamatoya – loved by locals. Gochisousamadeshita! (Thank your for the meal!)
Exploring Otaru City
Otaru itself is a beautiful city with a rich history and charming atmosphere. Next day, we took a stroll along the famous Otaru Canal, lined with historic warehouses that have been converted into shops and restaurants. The canal area is especially picturesque at night when the gas lamps are lit, creating a romantic ambiance.
We also visited Sakaimachi Street, known for its glassworks and music boxes. They had “Furin (Wind Chime) Yukata Festival” The street is filled with lots of Furin and people wearing yukata – so summerly! The sound of furin was beautiful when the wind swirled around.
Mikoshi, a portable shrine!
We didn’t go this time, but Mount Tengu is also a popular spot to visit to see beautiful view of Otaru with cherry blossoms.
Our trip to Otaru Aquarium and the canal was truly unforgettable. The combination of fascinating marine life, relaxing accommodations, and the charming cityscape of Otaru made for a perfect getaway. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, Otaru has something to offer. we highly recommend visiting this delightful city and experiencing its many attractions for yourself and your family.
