Hotels in Otaru

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Tomorrow
27 Oct - 28 Oct
This weekend
30 Oct - 1 Nov
Next weekend
6 Nov - 8 Nov

Where to stay in Otaru?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Otaru on Hotels.com. These Otaru hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on .

1. Hotel Emion Sapporo

Hotel Emion Sapporo
Kita Ward
£96
additional charges may apply
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Hotel Emion Sapporo

2. SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL

SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL
Higashi
£78
additional charges may apply
2 Nov - 3 Nov
SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL

3. Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo

Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo
Sapporo City Centre
£40
additional charges may apply
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo

4. Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal
Otaru
£40
additional charges may apply
25 Nov - 26 Nov
Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

5. Grand Park Otaru

Grand Park Otaru
Otaru
£49
additional charges may apply
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Grand Park Otaru

6. Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

Grids Premium Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£46
additional charges may apply
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

7. Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring
Otaru
£60
additional charges may apply
23 Nov - 24 Nov
Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

8. Hotel Nord Otaru

Hotel Nord Otaru
Otaru
£42
additional charges may apply
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Hotel Nord Otaru

9. Granbell Hotel Otaru

Granbell Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£44
additional charges may apply
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Granbell Hotel Otaru

10. Authent Hotel Otaru

Authent Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£63
additional charges may apply
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Authent Hotel Otaru

11. Hotel Sonia Otaru

Hotel Sonia Otaru
Otaru
£48
additional charges may apply
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Hotel Sonia Otaru

12. Sapporo Grand Hotel

Sapporo Grand Hotel
Sapporo City Centre
£53
additional charges may apply
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Sapporo Grand Hotel

13. Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru
Otaru
£57
additional charges may apply
25 Nov - 26 Nov
Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

14. OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin

OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin
Otaru
£354
additional charges may apply
8 Nov - 9 Nov
OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin

15. OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts

OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts
Otaru
£66
additional charges may apply
18 Nov - 19 Nov
OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts

16. OTARU SAMPO 2

OTARU SAMPO 2
Otaru
£171
additional charges may apply
28 Oct - 29 Oct
OTARU SAMPO 2

17. Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo

Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo
Toyohira
£45
additional charges may apply
25 Nov - 26 Nov
Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo

18. Ginrinsou

Ginrinsou
Otaru
£511
additional charges may apply
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Ginrinsou

19. RJHOTEL

RJHOTEL
Otaru
£56
additional charges may apply
26 Oct - 27 Oct
RJHOTEL

20. Tabist THE GREEN OTARU

Tabist THE GREEN OTARU
Otaru
£30
additional charges may apply
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Tabist THE GREEN OTARU
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Granbell Hotel Otaru

Granbell Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£173 off
£322
for 2 nights, 1 room
£161 per night
additional charges may apply
Granbell Hotel Otaru

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring
Otaru
£322
for 2 nights, 1 room
£161 per night
additional charges may apply
Sign in for extra savings
Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru
Otaru
£374
for 2 nights, 1 room
£187 per night
additional charges may apply
Sign in for extra savings
Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

Grids Premium Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£42 off
£380
for 2 nights, 1 room
£190 per night
additional charges may apply
Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

Grand Park Otaru

Grand Park Otaru
Otaru
£247 off
£341
for 2 nights, 1 room
£171 per night
additional charges may apply
Grand Park Otaru

OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin

OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin
Otaru
£301 off
£811
for 2 nights, 1 room
£405 per night
additional charges may apply
OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin

Pension Shadow Classe

Pension Shadow Classe
Otaru
£13 off
£120
for 2 nights, 1 room
£60 per night
additional charges may apply
Pension Shadow Classe

FUNAMIZAKA STAY

FUNAMIZAKA STAY
Otaru
£39 off
£452
for 2 nights, 1 home
£226 per night
additional charges may apply
FUNAMIZAKA STAY

Asari Classe Hotel

Asari Classe Hotel
Otaru
£164 off
£657
for 2 nights, 1 room
£329 per night
additional charges may apply
Asari Classe Hotel

SANGO

SANGO
Otaru
£105 off
£944
for 2 nights, 1 villa
£472 per night
additional charges may apply
SANGO

OTARU SAMPO

OTARU SAMPO
Otaru
£30 off
£321
for 2 nights, 1 apartment
£161 per night
additional charges may apply
OTARU SAMPO

THE Crestview Lodge

THE Crestview Lodge
Zenibako
£33 off
£372
for 2 nights, 1 chalet
£186 per night
additional charges may apply
THE Crestview Lodge

Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal
Otaru
£20 off
£42
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring
Otaru
£23 off
£66
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru
Otaru
£24 off
£58
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Unwind Hotel & Bar Otaru

OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts

OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts
Otaru
£7 off
£66
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts

Granbell Hotel Otaru

Granbell Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£22 off
£50
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Granbell Hotel Otaru

Grand Park Otaru

Grand Park Otaru
Otaru
£55
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Sign in for extra savings
Grand Park Otaru

Authent Hotel Otaru

Authent Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£12 off
£64
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Authent Hotel Otaru

Asari Classe Hotel

Asari Classe Hotel
Otaru
£8 off
£66
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Asari Classe Hotel

Otaru Kourakuen

Otaru Kourakuen
Otaru
£64 off
£528
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Otaru Kourakuen

Otaru Ryo An

Otaru Ryo An
Otaru City
£12 off
£109
for 1 apartment
additional charges may apply
Otaru Ryo An

BIBO OTARU 1002

BIBO OTARU 1002
Otaru
£6 off
£121
for 1 apartment
additional charges may apply
BIBO OTARU 1002

UCHI Living Stay Otaru Suitengu

UCHI Living Stay Otaru Suitengu
Otaru
£3 off
£63
for 1 apartment
additional charges may apply
UCHI Living Stay Otaru Suitengu

Minpaku Ota

Minpaku Ota
Otaru
£4 off
£39
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Minpaku Ota

THE EXSTRA

THE EXSTRA
Otaru
£7 off
£123
for 1 apartment
additional charges may apply
THE EXSTRA

Pension Shadow Classe

Pension Shadow Classe
Otaru
£7 off
£60
for 1 room
additional charges may apply
Pension Shadow Classe

You can also stay at hotels with a spa in Otaru

Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

Grids Premium Hotel Otaru
Otaru
£46
additional charges may apply
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Grids Premium Hotel Otaru

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring
Otaru
£60
additional charges may apply
23 Nov - 24 Nov
Dormy Inn Premium Otaru Natural Hot Spring

Asari Classe Hotel

Asari Classe Hotel
Otaru
£90
additional charges may apply
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Asari Classe Hotel

Otaru Kourakuen

Otaru Kourakuen
Otaru
£528
additional charges may apply
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Otaru Kourakuen

HOTEL NEUSCHLOSS OTARU

HOTEL NEUSCHLOSS OTARU
Otaru
£230
additional charges may apply
3 Nov - 4 Nov
HOTEL NEUSCHLOSS OTARU

THE DWBL HOTEL W

THE DWBL HOTEL W
Otarushi
£405
additional charges may apply
24 Nov - 25 Nov
THE DWBL HOTEL W

THE DWBL HOTEL B

THE DWBL HOTEL B
Otaru
£352
additional charges may apply
23 Nov - 24 Nov
THE DWBL HOTEL B
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Our prices for hotels in Otaru are cheapest in April
Price trends for hotels in Otaru
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in October
Typical weather for Otaru
October
High 13°C / low 6°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in October
13°
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6°
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-7°
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-3°
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2°
-6°
7°
-1°
15°
5°
19°
10°
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13°
Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Otaru

Zenibako

The Zenibako neighbourhood has lots to see, including Otaru Dream Beach and Zenibako Beach.

Top landmarks in Otaru

A snow-covered canal with reflections of lights, buildings, and a crowd of people.

Otaru Canal

8.8/10 (2,075 reviews)
Otaru Canal is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from central Otaru, why not stop by during your stay?
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A cable car labeled "TENGU" suspended over a city with a view of the sea and hills.

Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

8.4/10 (111 reviews)
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from central Otaru, why not stop by during your stay? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander.
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A snowy street with various food stalls and a signboard advertising seafood, grilled meat, and curry.

Sakaimachi Street

8.8/10 (188 reviews)
If you like shopping, take time out to go to Sakaimachi Street when in Otaru.
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A collection of antique gramophones and record players on a wooden table.

Otaru Music Box Museum

8.6/10 (450 reviews)
Otaru Music Box Museum is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from central Otaru, why not stop by during your stay? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. If you want to experience more of the culture Otaru has to offer, head to Sakaimachi Street, Shin Nihonkai Ferry, and Otaru Canal.
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Asarigawa Hot Spring

7.8/10 (70 reviews)
Asarigawa Hot Spring is 4.3 mi (6.9 km) from central Otaru, why not stop by during your stay? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander.
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Ski Village Asari

7.6/10 (24 reviews)
Skiers and snowboarders might want to test out the slopes at Ski Village Asari, a skiing spot located 4.4 mi (7 km) from central Otaru. If you master the slopes, Asari River Onsen Ski Area and Snow Cruise Onze are both nearby.
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Otaru Aquarium

8.2/10 (178 reviews)
Experience a world beneath the ocean with a visit to Otaru Aquarium, located 2.8 mi (4.4 km) from central Otaru. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. If you have fun at Otaru Aquarium, you'll love Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck and Otaru Kihinkan, both a short walk away.
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Rinyu Morning Market

7.6/10 (14 reviews)
If you like the hustle and bustle of a market, you might want to head out to Rinyu Morning Market when visiting Otaru. There are also lots of shops and restaurants in the area if you fancy a wander.
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Learn more about Otaru

Otaru is well known for its seaside and hot springs, featuring attractions such as Sakaimachi Street and Otaru Music Box Museum. Visitors to this walkable city speak highly of the seafood restaurants whereas sights include Shin Nihonkai Ferry and Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway.

See all hotels in Otaru
A snow-covered canal with reflections of lights, buildings, and a crowd of people.

Check out reviews of Otaru hotels guests love

The Royal Park Canvas – Sapporo Odori Park

The Royal Park Canvas – Sapporo Odori Park

10/10 Excellent
"Location, staff, breakfast all good"
PHOEBE 5-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
The Royal Park Canvas – Sapporo Odori Park
SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL

SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL

8/10 Good
"Everything from the staff, breakfast , room cleanliness was fantastic. I would have given Five star across the board but the rug was hard to look at. It was filthy, from the lobby lounge to the rooms. I know rugs are hard to clean but this was not easy to overlook."
MABEL 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL
Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo

Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo

8/10 Good
"Then hotel was good. Great? No but good. We have the European style family room and it was very big and very spacious. What I did not like was the AC is centrally controlled and while it is cold outside they have the heat on so the rooms are warm. We had to request fans for the room and open the window to let cool air inside which also allowed the noise. It would be better if all rooms could be controlled separately. Also no laundry facilities here and the lounge is ok. The coffee was available from 7a-11p which was great but the coffee was ok. The beer only from 4p-7p but we’re out the whole day so no chance to taste it. The shower had some mold in between the tiles. The staff was decent. Didn’t need much from them but they had English speaking staff so that was helpful. Would I stay here again? Sure, if in the area but I would probably look for another hotel first to see what the price would be. This was a great price so overall value was great but there are a few amenities like washer/dryer and a good AC that are a must as well."
Debra 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo
Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Sapporo

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Sapporo

10/10 Excellent
"Good amount of space in room, breakfast excellent and public bath very nice"
Chan 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Sapporo
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo

Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo

10/10 Excellent
"SPA Breakfast"
Shi-Long 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo
The Knot Sapporo

The Knot Sapporo

10/10 Excellent
"The Knot is a butique hotel located in the very center of Sapporo. I liked the stay a lot. The location is perfect, just next to the main shopping venus in Sapporo but still not that far from main JR station. It's a very wll maintained hotel that givs you vibes of a small, butique, kind of luxury hotel. I also enjoyed beakfasts a lot with a fantatic curry soup, though the choice of meals is the same everyday. Finally, the room was nice, but quite small and not that fancy, though I msut praise the very comfortable bed. Overall a five star stay for me."
Bartosz 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Knot Sapporo
Hotel Emion Sapporo

Hotel Emion Sapporo

8/10 Good
"The breakfast was good. The hotel is connected to Sapporo station via a covered underground walkway. The hot tub was also very relaxing after a day out."
Yu Chuan 7-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Emion Sapporo
Tokyu Stay Sapporo

Tokyu Stay Sapporo

8/10 Good
"We had a fantastic stay and wanted to extend our sincere thanks to the team. The staff is warm, polite, professional, helpful, knowledgeable, kind, and welcoming. The location is great, as it is close to shops and restaurants. I love that we could just sit, unwind, and enjoy the free coffee in the reception area after a tiring day. I also loved all the thoughtful free perks—especially the mini face wash, oil, and other skincare amenities! I highly recommend this place."
Jocelynn 5-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Tokyu Stay Sapporo
Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

8/10 Good
"Front desk staff are very helpful! The only issue is about the water machine, which should not be limited to certain hours only, as bottled water is not provided in the room and humans need water around the clock."
Howard 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Otaru?
You can discover great hotels in Otaru from £30 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. Guest House Otaru WANOKAZE - Hostel is one low-cost option that's popular with our travellers. To find an affordable hotel in Otaru that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How much does a hotel room cost in Otaru?
You can discover great hotels in Otaru from £30 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. Guest House Otaru WANOKAZE - Hostel is one low-cost option that's popular with our travellers. To find an affordable hotel in Otaru that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com, and sort hotels by "Price: low to high". If you're a member, don't forget to sign in to your account to unlock more savings.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Otaru hotels?
Discover great deals on Otaru hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. And make sure to check out our last-minute deals on Otaru hotels.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Otaru hotels?
Members can save up to 20% on select hotels in Otaru. Plus, Silver, Gold and Platinum members earn extra rewards on VIP Access bookings, making each stay even more rewarding.
Can I book Otaru hotels with free cancellation?
It's easy to book a refundable Otaru hotel on Hotels.com. Simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Otaru?
One of the most popular luxury hotels in Otaru is OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin. OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin is a luxury ryokan with a high guest rating amongst our travellers, and it offers a restaurant and a bar/lounge, plus private indoor hot tubs in the guestrooms.
What are some of the best hotels in Otaru for couples?
Enjoy your couple's retreat with a stay at a top-rated Otaru romantic hotel. Our travellers love OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin, a ryokan with a restaurant as well as a private indoor hot tub. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Grand Park Otaru. This hotel offers 2 restaurants and a bar/lounge for a perfect stay. Discover more hotels in Otaru on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
What are the top Otaru hotels with a pool?
For a little extra luxury, discover some of the best Otaru hotels with a pool. Asari Classe Hotel is a great resort with an indoor pool and a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. To find more stays in Otaru with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".
What are some of the best Otaru hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great Otaru hotel with free parking is a win. Our travellers' favourites include:
What are the top Otaru boutique hotels?
Book your stay at a stylish boutique hotel in Otaru. OTARU RETREAT KURAMURE by Onko Chishin is a popular ryokan with our travellers, offering guests a restaurant and a bar/lounge as well as individually decorated guestrooms with private indoor hot tubs and spring water bathtubs.
What are some popular hotels in central Otaru?
If you're looking for hotels in central Otaru, check out Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal and Hotel Nord Otaru. Travellers love Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal for its location, as well as the restaurant and free WiFi this hotel offers. Hotel Nord Otaru is another popular central hotel with a restaurant and a bar/lounge, plus free WiFi in the guestrooms. When you stay at one of these central hotels, you'll be in easy reach of top sights including Otaru Canal.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Otaru?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Otaru, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find this accommodation by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.

Find out more about Otaru

Otaru: A Serene Symphony of Canals and Hot Springs

Otaru, nestled in the enchanting Hokkaido Prefecture, is a charming port city renowned for its picturesque canals and historic architecture. Stroll along the beautifully preserved streets lined with quaint warehouses, now housing delightful boutiques and artisanal shops. Experience the soothing warmth of traditional onsen, and savour fresh seafood at the bustling local markets. Don’t miss the Otaru Aquarium, where marine wonders await, or the captivating Otaru Music Box Museum, a whimsical tribute to craftsmanship. With its romantic ambiance and stunning coastal scenery, Otaru is a hidden gem perfect for a serene getaway or cultural exploration.

Discover great hotels near Otaru

Otaru offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels with stunning waterfront views to cosy guesthouses. Many options include breakfast, making it easy to start your day. Whether you prefer modern stays or charming traditional inns, you'll find comfortable rooms to suit your needs in this picturesque city. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travellers near Otaru:

  1. Hopi HillsOpens in a new window: Hopi Hills is a budget-friendly lodge that caters to adventure seekers looking for an exhilarating ski vacation. With easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, this property offers a range of onsite and nearby adventure sports, including snowboarding and skiing rentals. The lively atmosphere is perfect for those who thrive on outdoor activities, making it a popular choice among frequent travellers seeking unforgettable experiences in nature.
  2. Yu KiroroOpens in a new window: Yu Kiroro is a charming 3.5-star hotel with an impressive guest rating of 9.0. This property is ideal for travellers looking to indulge in a hot spring-themed ski getaway. Boasting both indoor and outdoor public onsen facilities, Yu Kiroro offers a serene retreat after a day on the slopes. The combination of natural hot springs and excellent ski access creates a luxurious environment that is sure to delight leisure travellers in search of relaxation and rejuvenation.
  3. Yoichi LOOPOpens in a new window: Yoichi LOOP is a budget-friendly hotel with a stellar guest rating of 9.0, situated in the heart of the city. This property is tailored for urban explorers and wine enthusiasts, featuring easy access to a nearby winery vineyard. With its central location, guests can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy the vibrant city life. The inviting atmosphere and exceptional amenities make it a coveted choice for those wishing to experience the dynamic essence of Otaru.

Where to stay in and around Otaru

Some of the best areas to stay in Otaru, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, are Yoichi, Akaigawa, and Hariusu. Yoichi offers a rich cultural experience with its wineries and museums, while Akaigawa is perfect for those seeking skiing and family-friendly activities in a luxurious, secluded setting. Hariusu is ideal for ski enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Yoichi is the best choice to fully appreciate the region’s charm.

  1. YoichiOpens in a new window: Yoichi is a charming town that perfectly blends culture and nature. Known for its delightful wineries, you can enjoy tasting locally produced sake while soaking in scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The area also boasts rich historical attractions, including museums that showcase the region's heritage. Don’t miss the natural parks nearby for some peaceful hiking and exploration. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to relax and immerse themselves in Japanese culture while enjoying the tranquillity of nature. Consider staying at local guesthouses or boutique hotels that provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere and easy access to the town's highlights.
  2. AkaigawaOpens in a new window: For those seeking a winter wonderland, Akaigawa is a fantastic choice, especially for ski enthusiasts. This peaceful area offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding opportunities, catering to all skill levels. It’s a family-friendly destination, perfect for creating lasting memories on the slopes. Besides winter sports, the dining options are delightful, featuring local cuisine that warms you up after a day in the snow. The secluded nature of Akaigawa allows for a relaxing retreat, making it a great place to unwind after an adventurous day. Stay in luxury lodges or cozy chalets that provide comfort and easy access to the ski lifts.
  3. HariusuOpens in a new window: Hariusu is a hidden gem for ski lovers looking for a quieter experience away from the crowds. Its slopes are well-maintained and offer a more relaxed atmosphere for those wanting to enjoy the snow. While smaller than other ski resorts, the friendly vibe and close-knit community make it a welcoming destination. After skiing, unwind in quaint lodgings that provide a cosy retreat, and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains. Though it may not have a bustling nightlife, the charm of Hariusu lies in its simplicity and the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow travellers alike.

Things to do in Otaru

Otaru is a charming coastal gem where the sea meets stunning natural parks and lush forests. Wander along picturesque beaches, explore scenic hiking trails, or enjoy vibrant festivals and live music. With delightful shops and opportunities for boating and diving, it’s an enchanting destination for all types of travellers.

  • Zenibako BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a relaxing day at Zenibako Beach, where golden sands meet the azure waves. This spot is perfect for sunbathing, beach games, or simply taking in the scenic views of the coastline. You can enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea or stroll along the shore as the sun sets, creating a picturesque backdrop.
  • Odori ParkOpens in a new window – Visit Odori Park, a beautiful urban space that stretches through the heart of Otaru. Enjoy a leisurely walk through its well-maintained gardens, where seasonal flowers bloom vibrantly. The park often hosts events and festivals, making it a lively place to soak in the local culture and community spirit.
  • Yoichi Space DomeOpens in a new window – Head over to the Yoichi Space Dome, a unique space park that will ignite your curiosity about the cosmos. Explore interactive exhibits and learn about space exploration through engaging displays. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in astronomy and technology.
  • Maeda Forest ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the tranquillity of Maeda Forest Park, where you can wander through lush greenery and enjoy the serenity of nature. The park features walking trails that lead you deeper into the woods, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  • Mount TeineOpens in a new window – For stunning views of the surrounding area, make your way to Mount Teine. Whether you choose to hike up or take a cable car, the panoramic vistas from the summit are breathtaking. In winter, you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Otaru

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Otaru is during April, October, and November, when hotel prices are lower. To fully appreciate the city's landmarks, historical sites, and cultural offerings, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to enjoy budget-friendly activities such as shopping, exploring museums, experiencing local seafood, and strolling through beautiful natural parks. Additionally, visitors can take in the vibrant marina, relax in hot springs, and participate in lively festivals, all while ensuring great value for money.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for hotels in Otaru, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature on the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. If prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know, making it easier to secure your getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you find a better deal on your stay in an Otaru hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you make a reservation through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, assisting you in finding a more advantageous option.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre generally tend to be pricier; however, with Otaru's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit further out that remains well connected. For those wishing 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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Otaru are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to very cloudy conditions.

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