Diamond Princess
16% offinside
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Otaru Cruise Port
Otaru (sapporo), Japan
Otaru is a charming port city located in the Sapporo metropolitan area of Hokkaido, Japan.
Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#56
of 490 ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Today · high / low
74° / 26°
October normals
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Otaru (sapporo), Japan
// Otaru cruise port overview
The cruise port in Otaru,
explained
Lat: 43.2°NLong: 141.0°ETimezone: Asia/TokyoINTN code: OTAJP
Otaru is a charming port city located in the Sapporo metropolitan area of Hokkaido, Japan. It is known for its well-preserved historical buildings, many of which are located along the Otaru Canal.
The city is also home to a variety of museums, galleries, and other attractions, such as the Otaru Music Box Museum, the Otaru Aquarium, and the Otaru Beer Hall. Otaru is also a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts located nearby.
The city is also home to a number of traditional Japanese festivals, such as the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, which takes place every February. Otaru is a great place to explore and experience the culture and history of Japan, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of Hokkaido.
Ships visiting
3 lines
3 ships call at Otaru
Peak passenger day
2,826
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$107
per person · 14 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 67% of calls
Excursions in Otaru start at $107.
Browse Otaru excursions// Otaru Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Otaru
20 cruises stop here in Otaru during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Otaru cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Diamond Princess
15% offbalcony
Crystal Serenity
2% offsuite
Carnival Luminosa
2% offbalcony
MS Westerdam
0% offinside
// Otaru Cruise Port location
Where is Otaru Cruise Port?
Otaru (Sapporo), Japan cruise port is located on the western coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's four main islands. It is situated on Ishikari Bay, about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. The port is easily accessible by car, train, or bus from Sapporo, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The port is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of mountains, rivers, and the sea, and is home to a variety of attractions, including the Otaru Canal, the Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Otaru Aquarium.
- General location
- Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
- Coordinates
- 43.20°N, 141.01°E
- Time zone
- Asia/Tokyo
Cruise port · 43.20°N, 141.01°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Otaru cruise port guide
What to do in Otaru
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Eating
Otaru is known for its delicious seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. The city is also home to some of the best sushi restaurants in Japan, as well as a variety of other traditional Japanese dishes. There are also plenty of international restaurants to choose from, so there's something for everyone.
Theme 2
Shopping
Otaru is a great place for shopping, with a variety of stores and boutiques offering everything from traditional Japanese goods to modern fashion. The Otaru Canal Shopping Street is a popular destination, with its old-fashioned atmosphere and unique shops. The nearby Otaru Music Box Museum is also a great place to find unique souvenirs.
Theme 3
Sightseeing
Otaru is a great place to explore, with plenty of sights to see. The Otaru Canal is a popular destination, with its old-fashioned atmosphere and unique shops. The nearby Otaru Music Box Museum is also a great place to explore, with its collection of over 3,000 music boxes. The nearby Otaru Aquarium is also a great place to visit, with its variety of marine life.
Otaru cruise port beaches
3 in our guideK
Kamui Cape
Kamui Cape is a popular beach located just outside of Otaru. It is known for its stunning views of the Sea of Japan and its white sand beaches. The beach is also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, making it a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.
K
Kita-no-hama Beach
Kita-no-hama Beach is a popular beach located just outside of Otaru. It is known for its stunning views of the Sea of Japan and its white sand beaches. The beach is also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, making it a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.
O
Otaru Beach
Otaru Beach is a popular beach located in the city of Otaru, just a short drive from Sapporo. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the Sea of Japan. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, and it is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip.
// Otaru fun facts
Otaru Canal
The Otaru Canal is a beautiful sight to behold. Built in the late 19th century, the canal is lined with old warehouses and buildings, giving it a unique atmosphere. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the canal, admiring the old buildings and the boats that pass by. The canal is also a popular spot for nightlife, with many restaurants and bars located along its banks.
Otaru Music Box Museum
The Otaru Music Box Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Otaru. Located in the heart of the city, the museum houses a collection of over 3,000 music boxes from around the world. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful melodies of the music boxes, as well as learn about the history of music boxes and their production in Otaru. The museum also has a shop where visitors can purchase their own music boxes to take home.
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is an annual event held in February. During the festival, the streets of Otaru are lit up with thousands of snow lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy the many food stalls, live music, and other activities that take place during the festival. It's a great way to experience the beauty of Otaru in the wintertime.
Otaru cruise port shopping
3 in our guideO
Otaru Canal
Otaru Canal is a great place to shop for souvenirs. It is a historic canal lined with old warehouses and shops, and it is a great place to find unique items. There are many souvenir shops selling traditional items such as glassware, jewelry, and local snacks. You can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes along the canal, making it a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
O
Otaru Kitaichi Glass
Otaru Kitaichi Glass is a great place to find unique souvenirs. The shop specializes in glassware, and you can find a variety of glass items such as vases, bowls, and plates. The shop also has a selection of jewelry and other items made from glass. The shop also has a cafe where you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful glassware. The shop also offers classes where you can learn how to make your own glass items.
O
Otaru Music Box Museum
The Otaru Music Box Museum is a great place to find unique souvenirs. The museum has a large collection of music boxes from around the world, and you can find a variety of music boxes to take home as a souvenir. The museum also has a shop where you can purchase music boxes, as well as other items such as jewelry and traditional crafts. The museum also has a cafe where you can take a break and enjoy the music boxes.
// Otaru Cruise Port Terminals
Which Otaru cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in Otaru
Pier 1 of 3
Otaru Cruise Ship Terminal
1-1-1, Minato-machi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0003, JapanOtaru Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the city of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan. It is a large port that can accommodate large cruise ships and is a popular destination for tourists. The terminal offers a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It is also a great place to explore the city of Otaru and its many attractions.
Pier 2 of 3
Otaru International Cruise Ship Terminal
3-1-1, Minato-machi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0003, JapanOtaru International Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the city of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan. It is a large port that can accommodate large cruise ships and is a popular destination for tourists. The terminal offers a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It is also a great place to explore the city of Otaru and its many attractions.
Pier 3 of 3
Otaru Port Terminal
2-1-1, Minato-machi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0003, JapanOtaru Port Terminal is located in the city of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan. It is a large port that can accommodate large cruise ships and is a popular destination for tourists. The terminal offers a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It is also a great place to explore the city of Otaru and its many attractions.
Wi-Fi
The Otaru Cruise Port does not offer free public wifi access. However, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer free wifi access. Some of these include Starbucks, McDonald's, and Doutor Coffee. Additionally, many hotels in the area offer free wifi access to their guests.
Safety
Otaru (Sapporo), Japan is a very safe cruise port. The city is well-known for its low crime rate, and the port is well-secured with security personnel and surveillance cameras. The port is also located in a relatively quiet area, so there is little risk of crime or other disturbances.
Port address
Otaru Port, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan
Otaru cruise port car rental
Nippon Rent-A-CarTimes Car RentalToyota Rent-A-CarNippon Rent-A-Car Hokkaido
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Otaru (sapporo), Japan cruise port excursions
Most Popular Otaru Cruise Port Tours
14 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Otaru (sapporo), Japan, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Otaru shore tours
Curated from 14 · not a search result
4.9(27)$107
Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
6hPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide (opens in a new tab)4.7(23)$107
Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
5.0(6)$165
Private Customizable walking Tour in Otaru
4hPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Private Customizable walking Tour in Otaru (opens in a new tab)
4.0(2)$315
Sapporo Beer Museum from Otaru
$749
Otaru Cruise Highlights Tour 6h Canal Seafood and Mountain Views
$159
Private Transfer - Otaru Cruise Port to New Chitose Airport (CTS)
$107
Otaru Sushi and Seafood Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
$345
Exclusive Otaru's Historical Highlights and Craftmanship
Partake in a magical journey through Otaru, Japan's historic harbor city, where enchanting canals and vibrant culture await. Stroll along the beautifully restored Otaru Canal, basking in the romantic glow of gas lamps while exploring unique shops and eateries. Delve into the whimsical world of music boxes and exquisite glass art, culminating in a delicious taste of Otaru's famous ice cream (not included in price).
// Weather
Otaru Cruise Port Weather
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)·30-year historical averages
Oct averages · Otaru
49°
Avg · °F
Mild, frequent showers
- High
- 74°F
- Low
- 26°F
- Rain
- 4.7 in
// Year-round in Otaru
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Otaru cruise ship schedule
Otaru Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Otaru today, Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
// Keep exploring
Popular ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Other ports cruisers visit most in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East).
// Questions
Otaru cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Otaru.
Where is Otaru cruise port located?
Otaru (sapporo), Japan cruise port is located in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Otaru (Sapporo), Japan cruise port is located on the western coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's four main islands. It is situated on Ishikari Bay, about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. The port is easily accessible by car, train, or bus from Sapporo, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The port is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of mountains, rivers, and the sea, and is home to a variety of attractions, including the Otaru Canal, the Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Otaru Aquarium.
Is Otaru a good cruise port to visit?
Otaru is a great cruise port for those looking to explore the city of Sapporo and the surrounding area. The port is located close to the city center and offers easy access to many attractions, including the Otaru Canal, the Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Otaru Aquarium. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and other activities to enjoy in the area.
How safe is Otaru cruise port for passengers?
Otaru cruise port has a safety score of 9.1 out of 10, ranking #56 of 490 ports in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Otaru (Sapporo), Japan is a very safe cruise port. The city is well-known for its low crime rate, and the port is well-secured with security personnel and surveillance cameras. The port is also located in a relatively quiet area, so there is little risk of crime or other disturbances.
What is the weather like at Otaru cruise port in October?
In October, Otaru cruise port has average high temperatures of 74°F (23°C) and average lows of 26°F (-3°C).
How many excursions are available at Otaru cruise port?
There are currently 14 excursions and tours available at Otaru cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Otaru cruise port?
Otaru cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Eating, Shopping, Sightseeing. Otaru is a city located in the Sapporo region of Japan, and is known for its many attractions. Visitors to Otaru can explore the city's historic streets, lined with old warehouses and buildings, and visit the many museums and galleries that showcase the city's history and culture. Otaru is also known for its beautiful canals, which are lined with old stone warehouses and buildings, and offer a unique view of the city. Visitors can also enjoy the many shops and restaurants that line the canals, offering a variety of local and international cuisine. Otaru is also home to a number of parks and gardens, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Finally, Otaru is known for its many festivals and events, which take place throughout the year and offer a unique experience for visitors.
Can I rent a car at Otaru cruise port?
1. Nippon Rent-A-Car: Nippon Rent-A-Car offers car rental services near the Otaru (Sapporo) cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.2. Times Car Rental: Times Car Rental is another car rental option near the Otaru (Sapporo) cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and minivans. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.3. Toyota Rent-A-Car: Toyota Rent-A-Car is a car rental company located near the Otaru (Sapporo) cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and minivans. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.4. Nippon Rent-A-Car Hokkaido: Nippon Rent-A-Car Hokkaido is a car rental company located near the Otaru (Sapporo) cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and minivans. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.
What is the WiFi situation at Otaru cruise port?
The Otaru Cruise Port does not offer free public wifi access. However, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer free wifi access. Some of these include Starbucks, McDonald's, and Doutor Coffee. Additionally, many hotels in the area offer free wifi access to their guests.
Where is the cruise terminal at Otaru cruise port?
The address of Otaru (Sapporo), Japan cruise port is:Otaru Port, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan
What is the Otaru Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Otaru today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Otaru on any past or future date.