
2025.3.21
Five summer activities to enjoy in Otaru, surrounded by mountains and sea!
Otaru’s vast expanse of nature in summer offers a wide variety of experiences, from cool waterside activities to sweating under the shining sun. Also, with easy access to popular tourist spots such as Niseko and Shakotan, a trip to Otaru is a great base from which to explore the activities of the Goshi region! Refresh your mind and body in the magnificent nature of Hokkaido!
■TENGUU Zipline

Feel Like a Tengu, Gliding and Walking in the Air
The 128-meter run with a view of the city of Otaru and the Sea of Japan is a unique experience. Enjoy the refreshing breeze as you feel like a Tengu (a Japanese goblin) and enjoy the spectacular view. (From the official website of Otaru Tengu Ropeway Ski Area)
■TENGUU hot air balloon
Travel further up in the sky from the family slopes. Enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view from the sky. Enjoy the evening and night views below. (From the official website of Otaru Tengu Ropeway Ski Resort)
Introduction Site:https://tenguyama.ckk.chuo-bus.co.jp/smr-zip-line/
■Blue Cave

Otaru’s coastline is designated as “Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan National Park,” the only marine park area in Hokkaido.
You can enjoy the spectacular view of the fantastic emerald green sea and rugged caves.
Each cruise company offers different experiences and attractions, so please find the tour of your choice.
■Salt Valley408 “Tour of the Secret World of the Sea”
The exciting “Otaru Blue Cave Exploration Cruise” is produced by men who love the sea in Otaru and Shioya. The thrilling cruise by men who know the sea inside out is the attraction of this cruise. Fantastic scenery and wildlife, and if you are lucky, you may even see dolphins.
■Exciting Cruising
Long distance cruise of 26 km round trip, about 80 minutes! From the Otaru Canal to the precipitous rocky cliffs and waterfalls! This tour is packed with spots other than the Blue Cave, so you will never get bored.
■KANEHIDE MARINE “Boat Cruise R.X.A.CRUISE
Cruise in comfort on a covered boat. Charter plans are also very popular, and we invite you to experience a special adventure in a private space. The hospitality of the captain, Mr. Alexei, is highly recommended for both Japanese and foreign guests.
■Ryugu Cruise
Ryugu Cruise is the first “Blue Cave Course” approved by the Hokkaido Transport Bureau. Enjoy an exhilarating cruise with a fun guide through the spectacular scenery of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan National Park!
Introduction Site:https://otaru.gr.jp/guidemap/otaru-blue-cave
■Otaru City Beach

Otaru, with its close proximity to the sea, has many beaches. Especially in recent years, the hot weather in Hokkaido attracts many tourists and citizens every year. There are also beaches where paddle boarding and BBQ are available, making it an indispensable spot for summer leisure in Hokkaido.
■Otaru Dream Beach
Location: 3-70, Zenibako, Otaru City
■Zenibako Beach
Location: 3 Zenibako, Otaru City
■Higashi-Otaru Beach
Location: Funahama-cho, Otaru City
■Shioya Beach
Location: 1 Shioya, Otaru City
■Ranshima Beach
Location: 1 Ranshima, Otaru City
Please see below for details on each facility.
Introduction Site:https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/docs/2020100901012/
■Otaru Aquarium

This is an annual summer event at Otaru Aquarium! Steller’s sea lions, walruses, and seals splash around with their “fins” in the show. The aquarium is one of Hokkaido’s representative aquariums where visitors can see a variety of sea creatures, including a powerful dolphin show where visitors can get up close and personal with the dolphins as they splash around in the water.
*For details, please check the Otaru Aquarium website.