A Winter Escape to Otaru – Snow, Sweets & Canal Strolls

#cityplaybook With soft snow falling and warm lights glowing along the canal, Otaru in winter feels like a fairytale. Just an hour from Sapporo, this charming port town is the perfect place to slow down, explore, and indulge. I started the day walking along the famous Otaru Canal, where the old warehouses and gently drifting snow created a scene that felt straight out of a movie ❄️ Around Otaru Station, I spent the afternoon sampling all kinds of treats—LeTAO’s cheesecakes, fresh seafood at the market, and cozy breads from local bakeries. This town is a dream for anyone who loves to snack their way through a trip 🍞🧀 For the night, I stayed at Hotel Neu Schloss Otaru. Perched above the sea, the room was spacious and peaceful, with beautiful views and total calm. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and comfort takes over. Why I recommend Otaru in winter: ・The snowy streets and historic buildings create a magical, storybook-like atmosphere ・Perfect for a slow holiday full of food, walks, and relaxing with a view 📍Otaru, Hokkaido #otaru #hokkaido #winterescape #snowycity #otarucanal #letao #foodietrip #slowtravel #cozygetaway #cityguide