🗺️ Otaru Canal小樽運河

Otaru Port has prospered as the gateway to Hokkaido since its development. The cargo volume has increased year by year, and to enhance transportation efficiency, the "Otaru Canal" was opened in Taisho 12 (1923). The canal, constructed by land reclamation near the coast, features gentle curves rather than straight lines. Today, the area around the canal has been transformed into walking paths and public squares, becoming a representative tourist attraction of Otaru. Along the paths, 63 gas lamps have been installed, which light up at sunset. The stone warehouses along the canal have been preserved in their original form and are now used for restaurants and other facilities. At dusk, as the gas lamps illuminate the streets, the stone warehouses also light up, creating a scene filled with a retro atmosphere. The North Canal, located on the northern side of the Otaru Canal, is wider, with moored vessels and rows of warehouses, showcasing the unique charm of a port town. The "Otaru Canal Sightseeing Boat," which offers a 40-minute ride to view the Otaru Canal from the water, is also highly recommended.

The canal completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The banks of the canal have been developed into a walking path, making it a representative tourist attraction of Otaru. At night, the gas lamps are lit, creating a different atmosphere from during the day.