Top Otaru Wine, Beer & Spirits

This tour will visit Otaru, once the distribution center of Hokkaido.Otaru is a town that became a popular tourist destination thanks to Japanese movies. On the Otaru Canal Walking Tour, we will stop at facilities of interest to our guests for an extraordinary experience.For example, you can stroll through the retro streets in the Sakai-machi shopping district and enjoy Otaru's famous glass and music boxes. You can also enjoy delicious food. Please let your guide know if there is any restaurant you would like to visit! Our nationally certified guides will be happy to show you around.

In 2024, ""Traditional Sake Brewing"" in Japan was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition honors unique brewing techniques using koji mold and the rich culture surrounding them. Otaru’s Tanaka Sake Brewery, home to the historic ""Kikkogura"" building, is a rare establishment where visitors can observe sake brewing year-round. On this special tour, you will step behind the scenes into areas normally off-limits to experience traditional brewing firsthand. You will observe the meticulous work of the Toji (master brewer) and the process up close, witnessing the skill and passion behind the craft. Through expert explanations of ingredients and methods, you will gain a deeper understanding of the art of sake. The tour concludes with tasting freshly brewed sake. Savor the aromas and flavors as you appreciate the allure of brewing. Create unforgettable memories with this experience where living Japanese tradition and culture come alive.

Make the most of your time in Otaru with a private half-day tour that’s customizable to suit your needs and interests. You’ll learn more about this historic town than you would wandering around alone, and you won’t waste time visiting places you’re not interested in. Check out the Otaru Canal, a sake distillery, sweet shops, restaurants, and more.