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All Japan Otaru

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Otaru

4 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Otaru, Japan

Updated September 7, 2023

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Unusual Attractions in Otaru

Kitaichi Hall.

Otaru, Japan

Kitaichi Hall

A gorgeous, nostalgic café housed in a lofty old warehouse, lit only by petroleum lamps.
The opulent second floor.

Otaru, Japan

Otaru Orgel Museum

This dazzling three-story shop showcases the art and history of music boxes, a popular novelty in Japan.
The site of Temiya Line, 1880-1985.

Otaru, Japan

Former Temiya Line Railroad

This abandoned railroad got a new life as a scenic promenade cutting through the city of Otaru.
Otaru Herring Palace

Otaru, Japan

Otaru Herring Palace

A nouveau-riche hilltop “palace” that once provided lodging to more than a hundred fishermen.
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The petroglyphs (picture taken from the site’s official booklet).

Yoichi, Japan

Fugoppe Cave Petroglyphs

One of the only two archaeological sites in Japan to feature petroglyphs, which some believe to be a long-lost writing system of the gods.
7 miles from Otaru
Salmon Roe, the restaurant’s specialty

Sapporo, Japan

Hachikyo

This exacting restaurant will charge a fine for every grain of rice you've left behind.
20 miles from Otaru
Moerenuma Park.

Sapporo, Japan

Moerenuma Park

This futuristic public park includes large sculptures and an artificial geyser.
22 miles from Otaru
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Recent Otaru Activity

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    wants to go to Former Temiya Line Railroad

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    wants to go to Kitaichi Hall

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