Otaru / 8 photo spots
8 Instagram spots around Otaru
Otaru on Hokkaidō combines a canal, former trading buildings and a coastal mountain viewpoint. The historic streets and waterfront make a good starting point.

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Photo spots on the map
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Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
Otaru Canal
Former warehouses line Otaru Canal. Frame the water and buildings together from the path, or use the canal’s curve to lead the eye into the scene.
Search Google MapsSakaimachi Street
Sakaimachi is a former merchant street with preserved buildings and shops. Photograph along the street to connect several façades, taking care not to obstruct people walking past.
Search Google MapsFormer Bank of Japan Otaru Branch
The Bank of Japan’s former Otaru branch houses a museum. Use the building’s exterior as an architectural subject and check the museum’s rules before photographing exhibits.
Search Google MapsOtaru Music Box Museum
The Otaru Music Box Museum is associated with the shops and museums near Sakaimachi. Frame the entrance as part of its street setting; ask about photography before making images inside.
Search Google MapsFormer Temiya Railway Line
Part of the former Temiya Line is preserved as a walking route. Use the rails as leading lines and stay within the preserved visitor area.
Search Google MapsOtaru Railway Museum
Otaru’s railway museum occupies the site of a former railway terminus. If photography is allowed, use the historic trains as a subject and include some of their surroundings.
Search Google MapsMount Tengu viewpoint
Mount Tengu offers a view over Otaru and Ishikari Bay. Check the ropeway’s current operation before visiting, and use a wide frame to include both city and coast.
Search Google MapsOtaru Kihinkan, Former Aoyama Villa
Otaru Kihinkan is a former villa connected to the region’s herring industry. Photograph the exterior from an allowed position, and follow the property’s current photography rules.
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