Otaru Sakaimachi Street

Welcome to Sakaimachi Street, Otaru's primary shopping artery and a remarkably preserved stretch of Meiji and Taisho era merchant buildings. This 900-meter street was once where the city's wealthiest traders lived and worked, and…

Our first stop is the Kitaichi Glass complex, a cornerstone of Otaru's glassmaking tradition since 1901. Originally, this company focused on manufacturing petroleum lamps and glass fishing floats for Hokkaido's massive fishing…

As we continue south, we reach the heart of Otaru’s 'sweets district,' headlined by the famous LeTAO. LeTAO is legendary for its cheesecakes, particularly the 'Double Fromage,' which has a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture that…

Sakaimachi isn't just about glass and food; it also hosts several whimsical themed stores that appeal to collectors and fans of global characters. The Snoopy Village store is a particularly popular stop, featuring a colorful…

While the main drag of Sakaimachi is where the large crowds gather, the side alleys are where you can find the 'true' spirit of Otaru's artisan community. If you step just a few yards off the main road, the noise fades, and you…

We have reached the southern end of the street, known as the 'Marchen Crossroads'. This area feels like a European plaza placed in the middle of Hokkaido, surrounded by grand stone buildings and an open park-like space. …

Sakaimachi Street is more than just a place to shop; it is the living memory of Otaru's golden age as a merchant port. As you finish your walk, consider how these buildings have transitioned from functional hubs of trade to…