The Historic Beauty and Allure of the Otaru Canal
Today, the Otaru Canal is one of Japan’s most iconic sightseeing spots—but its journey to fame wasn’t always smooth.
Let’s take a look at the fascinating history of this unique canal, along with nearby attractions you can enjoy when visiting Otaru.
◆ The Rise of the Otaru Port and the Birth of the Canal
Dating back to the Meiji era, Otaru Port played a vital role as a key gateway to Hokkaido.
At the time, large ships anchored offshore, and cargo was transferred using smaller boats called hashike. But as cargo volume increased, the harbor became overcrowded, sparking the need for a new solution.
Two proposals were made: one to build a modern pier system allowing ships to dock directly, and another to reclaim part of the shoreline and extend the distance where smaller boats could dock via a canal.
After much debate, and with guidance from civil engineer Isamu Hiroi—the first director of the Otaru Port Bureau—the canal plan was chosen.
Construction began in 1914, and after nine years of hard work, the Otaru Canal was completed in 1923.
Unlike typical canals that are dug into land, the Otaru Canal was formed by reclaiming the sea, creating a waterway between the shoreline and the newly constructed land. This unique method gave the canal its distinctive, gentle curve.
During its peak, the Otaru Port thrived. Large ships and hashike bustled in and out, and the canal supported the city’s prosperity as a hub of commerce.
However, after WWII, as direct docking became standard through modern piers, the canal quickly lost its original purpose.
◆ The Canal’s Decline and the Fight to Preserve It
As maritime shipping declined and Japan entered the automobile age, a city plan was made in 1966 to completely fill in the canal and build a six-lane highway (Otaru Linko Line Road).
Demolition of historic warehouses in the Arihoro area began, sparking concern among local residents. A preservation group called Save the Otaru Canal Association was soon formed to protest the destruction and preserve the canal as a symbol of the city.
What followed was a long, drawn-out debate that lasted over a decade. Eventually, a compromise was reached: part of the canal would be filled in to make way for the road, while the rest would be preserved and redeveloped with walking paths and scenic areas.
The story of the canal’s preservation was widely covered in the national media, and as a result, Otaru began to attract tourists from all over Japan, eager to see the canal for themselves.
This movement not only saved the Otaru Canal but also sparked a broader effort to preserve the city's historic buildings. Today, the canal shines once again as one of Hokkaido’s most beloved tourist destinations.
◆ The Otaru Canal Today & Nearby Attractions
Stretching approximately 1,140 meters, the Otaru Canal is now a picturesque destination lined with old stone warehouses and preserved historical buildings, evoking a sense of nostalgia and charm.
In the evening, gas lamps—including 63 along the canal—light up the area, giving it a completely different ambiance from daytime. You can also take a canal cruise to enjoy the sights from the water and see the city from a new perspective.
Just a short walk away is Sakaimachi Street, a lively area filled with souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants. You’ll also find numerous preserved buildings featuring the advanced design and engineering of their time.
The Otaru Canal isn’t just a scenic spot—it's a living piece of history and a symbol of the city's spirit.
If you’re visiting Otaru, be sure to take the time to experience its quiet beauty and rich story for yourself.
