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Otaru

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Travel guide
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Travel guide

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Best time to visit Otaru

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Otaru throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): 36–55°F on average, the climate is cool, but there is more sunshine, with occasional showers. March is still chilly, April begins to warm up, and May is relatively mild. Common activities: flower viewing, walking along the canal. Recommended clothing: warm jacket, sweater, long pants.
  • Summer (June–August): 63–75°F on average, the climate is warm and humid, with occasional showers or thunderstorms. July and August are the hottest months, suitable for seaside activities. Common activities: seaside recreation, Otaru Canal boat tour, enjoying seafood. Recommended clothing: light and breathable clothing, short sleeves, light jacket.
  • Autumn (September–November): 42–67°F on average, the climate is comfortable and pleasant, but October has more rainfall. September has a mild climate, and November begins to cool down. Common activities: maple viewing, enjoying Japanese sake, visiting glass factories. Recommended clothing: light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, comfortable long pants.
  • Winter (December–February): -3.0–-35.1°F on average, the climate is cold and dry, with less snowfall, but occasional snowfalls. The temperature is low, and the wind is also stronger. Common activities: skiing (nearby areas), experiencing snow scenes, soaking in hot springs (nearby areas). Recommended clothing: thick warm jacket, hat, gloves, scarf.

Weather in Otaru

Annual average temperature: approx. 50.0°F / Annual rainfall: approx. 1402 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: October

Otaru weather by month

Month
Temperature (°F)
Rainfall (mm)
January
26.6°F
155.5
February
28°F
117.6
March
36.5°F
59.9
April
47.5°F
52.1
May
55.8°F
67.6
June
63.5°F
83
July
72.3°F
124.4
August
75.7°F
140
September
67.6°F
120.8
October
55°F
178.9
November
42.8°F
178
December
28.9°F
124.7

7-day weather forecast for Otaru

11/16
Monday
Light drizzle
40.5°F/31.4°F
11/17
Tuesday
Light snow
38.4°F/30.4°F
11/18
Wednesday
Light drizzle
43.9°F/33.2°F
11/19
Thursday
Heavy snow
44.1°F/28.2°F
11/20
Friday
Heavy snow
28.4°F/25°F
11/21
Saturday
Heavy snow
30.7°F/25.9°F
11/22
Sunday
Moderate or heavy snow showers
31.4°F/27°F

Otaru travel FAQs and useful info

What is Otaru famous for?

Otaru is renowned for its picturesque canals lined with historic warehouses, offering a romantic atmosphere. It's also celebrated for its incredibly fresh sushi and seafood, exquisite glassworks, charming music boxes, and local Otaru Beer. The city's past as a major port town has left it with a unique historical landscape.

Is it worth visiting Otaru?

Yes, Otaru is definitely worth visiting. Its beautifully preserved canal area and historic herring mansions make it a pleasant day trip from Sapporo or a worthwhile stop en route to Niseko or the Shakotan Peninsula. Otaru served as a significant port during Hokkaido's early colonization.

What does Otaru mean in English?

The name Otaru is a corruption of the Ainu word 'otarunai,' which translates to 'sandy beach' in English. This port city on Ishikari Bay developed into a modern town in the late 19th century.

What are the must-try foods in Otaru?

Otaru is a haven for seafood lovers. You absolutely must try the fresh sushi and sashimi made with ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding waters. Many restaurants also offer delicious seafood bowls and other local delicacies.

What kind of crafts can I find in Otaru?

Otaru is a renowned center for craftsmanship, particularly in glassworks and music boxes. You can explore numerous shops and museums dedicated to these arts, where you can find unique souvenirs and witness skilled artisans at work.