Otaru (Sapporo)

Otaru sits on the coast of Hokkaido, about 40 minutes from Sapporo by train. The main attraction is the Otaru Canal, a short stretch of waterway lined with stone warehouses from the early 1900s, now converted into restaurants and shops. Gas lamps light the canal at night. In winter, it's covered in snow, and there's a festival with ice lanterns. Otaru has a strong glass-blowing tradition, and several workshops sell their pieces in shops along Sakaimachi Street. The street also has music box shops, including a large music box museum. LeTAO is a famous local cheese tart shop, usually with a queue outside. Otaru's sushi is considered some of the best in Hokkaido, thanks to the port's fresh seafood supply. Sapporo, reachable by frequent trains, has the beer museum, ramen alley, and in winter, the Snow Festival.