The 1.5-kilometer Otaru Canal was built in 1923 using reclaimed land to transport goods to warehouses before becoming a tourist attraction in winter. The canal is lit up with candles, creating a romantic atmosphere in the evening.

The Otaru Canal (小樽運河 Otaru Unga) runs through Otaru City and was a busy port route in the first half of the 20th century. Large ships docked at the port and goods were unloaded by smaller boats passing along the canal.

The canal began to lose its importance as modern facilities came into being, but with the support of people, the Otaru Canal was beautifully restored in the 1980s, transforming warehouses into museums, shops, and restaurants.

The canal road is perfect for a stroll during the day, when artists perform their activities and works for passersby, and in the evening, when lanterns in old lanterns create a romantic atmosphere.

From JR Otaru Station, cross the road and walk straight for about 700 meters or 10 minutes' walk to the Otaru canal, finding the Tourist Information Center on the left at the corner.