Sakaimachi Street (境町通り) is one of Otaru’s most cherished attractions, known for its nostalgic charm that brings visitors back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries—the Meiji and early Shōwa eras. Once the heart of commercial activity in Otaru, the area thrived with shipping companies, banks, warehouses, and merchant houses. Many buildings were constructed using stone and red brick in Western-influenced architectural styles, symbolizing Otaru’s historical role as a prosperous northern port city.

Today, the street—spanning approximately 900 meters to 1.3 kilometers—has been meticulously preserved and transformed into a lively area filled with boutiques, cafés, museums, and cultural attractions. Stretching from the Otaru Canal to the picturesque Meruhen Intersection (Meruhen-Kōsaten), it remains one of Hokkaido’s most atmospheric streets for walking, dining, and sightseeing.

Highlighted Spots Along Sakaimachi Street

• Otaru Music Box Museum
  Home to thousands of handcrafted music boxes, the museum is a symbolic landmark at Meruhen Intersection. The iconic steam-powered clock, a gift from Vancouver, stands right outside and draws constant attention.

• Kitaichi Glass
  A legendary glass manufacturer that began during Otaru’s fishing industry era. Visitors can shop for premium glassware or participate in glass-blowing and craft workshops.

• LeTAO (Main Store & Café)
  World-famous for its creamy double fromage cheesecake. The main store on Sakaimachi features a café on the upper floor with elegant desserts and scenic street views.

• Kamaei (Kamaboko Specialty Shop)
  A long-established shop famed for its freshly made kamaboko (Japanese fish cakes), including unique Otaru-style flavors.

• Local Seafood Restaurants & Dessert Shops
  The street offers a wide range of sushi restaurants, seafood bowls, bakeries, gelato shops, cafés, and confectionery stores—perfect for leisurely tasting local specialties.

• Historic Stone Warehouses & Western-Style Buildings
  Many traditional structures remain in pristine condition, creating the romantic retro atmosphere that Sakaimachi is known for.

Whether you're shopping for handcrafted goods, savoring Hokkaido delicacies, enjoying hands-on workshops, or simply admiring the architecture, Sakaimachi Street delivers an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

• From JR Otaru Station:
  Walk 10–18 minutes toward the canal and continue straight until you reach Sakaimachi Street.

• From JR Minami-Otaru Station:
  Walk 5–8 minutes. This is the closest access point to Meruhen Intersection and the Otaru Music Box Museum.

• Local buses and taxis from central Otaru are also convenient options.

• Visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and during summer.

• Allocate time for both the Music Box Museum and the glass-blowing workshops at Kitaichi Glass.

• Many shops close early, so plan to finish shopping before the evening.

• Winter nights are beautifully illuminated but pathways may be slippery—wear proper footwear.

Admission Fee:

• The street itself is free to walk and explore.

• The Otaru Music Box Museum is generally free to enter (specific annexes or exhibits may require a fee).

• Workshops at places like Kitaichi Glass and other hands-on activities charge additional fees.

Operating Hours:

• General Shop Hours: Typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (18:00).

• Some restaurants and cafés may stay open slightly later.