Hotels in Otaru

Otaru: A Symphony of Sea, Springs, and Serenity

Nestled in the picturesque Hokkaido Prefecture, Otaru is a charming port city that enchants visitors with its blend of history and natural beauty. Famous for its stunning canal lined with vintage warehouses, Otaru exudes a romantic atmosphere, especially at dusk when the gas lamps cast a warm glow. The Otaru Museum and Aquarium offer glimpses into the region's rich maritime heritage, while nearby hot springs provide a perfect retreat. With its scenic waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and delectable seafood, Otaru is an irresistible destination for culture seekers and nature lovers alike.

Discover great hotels in Otaru

Otaru offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from quaint inns near the picturesque canal to modern establishments with stunning views. Whether seeking a cosy guest room or a stylish hotel room, you'll find various options that cater to different tastes and budgets, ensuring a delightful stay in this charming city. Here are some of the best hotels in Otaru that our travelers love:

1. Hopi HillsOpens in a new window: Hopi Hills is a charming 2.5-star lodge that caters to adventure seekers looking for a ski and outdoor experience. This property offers convenient access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it an ideal location for winter sports enthusiasts. Guests can partake in various onsite and nearby activities such as hiking, biking, and snowboarding, all set against the stunning backdrop of Hokkaido's natural beauty. Review sentiments highlight the inviting atmosphere and the exciting adventure sports options available, ensuring a memorable stay for those seeking active getaways.
2. Yu KiroroOpens in a new window: Yu Kiroro is a delightful 3.5-star hotel that embodies the essence of relaxation and rejuvenation with its hot spring amenities. Featuring both indoor and outdoor public onsen, this property is perfect for travellers seeking a serene ski vacation experience. The inviting ambience is complemented by the natural hot springs onsite, creating a soothing retreat after a day on the slopes. Reviewers appreciate the tranquil environment and the luxurious feel of the hot springs, making it a top choice for leisure travellers keen on unwinding in comfort.
3. Yoichi LOOPOpens in a new window: Yoichi LOOP is a conveniently located 2.0-star hotel in the heart of the city, making it a perfect choice for urban explorers and wine enthusiasts. With easy access to a nearby winery vineyard, this property offers a unique city-themed experience that stands out in Otaru. The hotel’s central location allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and attractions, with the added charm of a winery experience close at hand. Positive reviews often highlight the vibrant city atmosphere and the unique opportunity to explore local wine offerings, appealing to those seeking a distinctive urban retreat.

Top locations to stay in Otaru

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Otaru, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, are Yoichi, Akaigawa, and Asari. Yoichi offers delightful winery tours, while Akaigawa is perfect for skiing and dining experiences. Asari boasts scenic viewpoints and relaxation spots. For first-time visitors, Yoichi is particularly appealing due to its unique cultural and culinary offerings.

1. YoichiOpens in a new window: Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Yoichi is a charming town known for its delightful winery tours. It’s the perfect spot for visitors who appreciate fine wines and the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the vineyards. You can indulge in tastings while enjoying the scenic views of the mountains and the sea. Aside from wine, the area offers cultural experiences with local distilleries and traditional Japanese architecture, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture.
2. AkaigawaOpens in a new window: If you’re seeking a blend of exciting winter sports and fantastic dining options, Akaigawa is an ideal base. Renowned for its ski resorts, this area attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over. After a thrilling day on the slopes, unwind at one of the local eateries that showcase Hokkaido’s rich culinary scene. The combination of adventure and gourmet experiences makes Akaigawa a top pick for travellers looking to enjoy both action and relaxation.
3. AsariOpens in a new window: Asari is a hidden gem for those who appreciate natural beauty and tranquillity. With its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, it's a fantastic place for leisurely walks and enjoying the serene atmosphere. The area also offers cultural attractions, including traditional Japanese inns where you can experience a ryokan stay. Asari is perfect for travellers who want to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature.

Things to do in Otaru

Nestled between stunning mountains and the shimmering sea, Otaru enchants visitors with its picturesque waterfront and lush parks. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the coast, or dive into local festivities with live music and vibrant markets. With opportunities for hiking, boating, and relaxing in soothing hot springs, this charming destination promises a delightful escape.

• Odori ParkOpens in a new window – Stroll through this vibrant urban park that stretches over 1.5 kilometers, offering beautiful flowerbeds and seasonal events. It's a perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the greenery amidst the bustling city.
• Jozankei Hot SpringOpens in a new window – Treat yourself to a soothing experience at this renowned hot spring area. Nestled in the mountains, soak in the natural mineral-rich waters while taking in the stunning scenery that surrounds you, making it a rejuvenating escape.
• Nakajima ParkOpens in a new window – Unwind at this picturesque urban park, featuring tranquil ponds and lush landscapes. Engage in leisurely walks or enjoy a boat ride on the pond, and don’t miss the seasonal cherry blossoms that create a stunning spectacle in spring.
• Sapporo TV TowerOpens in a new window – Climb up this iconic historic tower for panoramic views of Sapporo and beyond. The observation deck offers a fantastic vantage point to admire the cityscape and the surrounding mountains, especially stunning at sunset.
• Sapporo Clock TowerOpens in a new window – Visit this beloved symbol of the city, which dates back to 1878. Explore its charming architecture and learn about its history while enjoying the picturesque surroundings that capture the essence of Sapporo.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Otaru

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Otaru are April, October, and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. For those looking to explore the city's historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy activities such as shopping, visiting museums, sampling fresh seafood, leisurely walks by the sea, attending live music events, exploring natural parks, relaxing at the marina, unwinding in hot springs, and participating in local festivals. This way, you'll experience great value for money while immersing yourself in the rich culture of Otaru.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Otaru, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool within the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring that you’re updated on any changes in availability or pricing for your preferred hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the season, so being flexible with your dates might help you save on your stay in an Otaru hotel. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and occasionally better value. When you make a booking with Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Otaru's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that is still well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Otaru

Otaru experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 20.3°F (-6.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Otaru, April, July, and August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to very cloudy conditions.