Best Time to Visit Otaru

The Best Time to Visit Otaru

December to February in Winter and June to August in summer are the best times to visit Otaru. These two periods offer you totally different and delightful travel experiences.

Otaru Canal View in Summer

December to February in Winter

Otaru is renowned for its spectacular snowscapes and December to February, with abundant snowfall, is the best time for it. Also, due to its proximity to the sea, the actual temperature rarely drops to an unbearable level, although it shows an image of ice and snow. Even in the coldest month of January, the minimum temperature seldom falls below -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit).

Snow-covered Landscape of Otaru

For snow enthusiasts, many excellent spots in Otaru are worthwhile for visiting, such as Funamisaka, Otaru Canal, and Tenguyama. They are also filming locations for the classic Japanese movie “Love Letter”. When the night falls, the snow-covered city turns more charming under the illumination of lights. Particularly, in early to mid-February annually, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is held, during which the streets near the Otaru Canal are decorated with diversified snow sculptures and snow lanterns. Wanna hit up the festival for your 2026 Otaru Trip? Mark the dates from Feb 8 to 15, and snag your tickets and pack your bags ahead of time!

June to August in Summer

Unlike most southern cities like Tokyo, Nara, and Kyoto in Japan, Otaru has a much pleasant weather in summer from June to August, and it is regarded as an optimal place to escape summer heat. Even in the hottest August, the maximum temperatures are usually at about 24-28℃ (75-82℉), a very comfortable level. Besides, Otaru is not significantly affected by rain this time period. Moderate or heavy rainfall occurs only occasionally, so there is no need to worry too much about your trip being disrupted. That said, you’re advised to pack a portable umbrella when hanging out since light rain is prone to occur intermittently. If you prefer staying indoors while it’s raining, consider visiting Sankaku Market where you can taste various delicious and fresh local seafood, or museums like the Otaru Orgel Museum and Taisho Glass Museum, where various works of art are exhibited.

Moreover, various exciting summer events also inject endless vitality into this city, with the most lively one being the Otaru Tide Festival held in late July every year. During this time, there are grand celebrations every day, such as dance and band performances, fireworks display, and all kinds of snacks and entertainments waiting for you to experience!

Otaru Store

Otaru Glass Artworks

Tips

1. The above-mentioned periods are popular times to visit Otaru, which means you may encounter crowded attractions and higher travel costs. Therefore, you’re recommended to book your accommodation and flights earlier.

2. During the winter months, blizzard may occur occasionally, leading to suspension of the public transportation and closure of certain attractions. To ensure a smooth trip, better check the weather forecast before you go.

Best Time to Enjoy Sakura in Otaru: Late April to Early May

Otaru’s Sakura season arrives a bit later due to its cooler climate compared with other major Japanese cities. If you have already missed the cherry blossoms of other places, then Otaru’s late spring delight in late April to early May still awaits you.

Top attractions such as the Temiya Park, Suitengu, and Otaru Park are highly recommended, which have excellent geographical locations and expansive views, allowing you to witness the harmonious combination of pink cherry blossoms and the blue sea. In Tenguyama, the highest point in Otaru, you can have a panoramic view of the city adorned with cherry blossoms.

Otaru Sakura in Spring

Best Time to Admire Autumn Foliage in Otaru: Mid-October to Early November

In mid-October to early November, while other southern cities are still dominated by lush green, Otaru has already become colorful. With its cool climate and mild UV rays, you can enjoy a comfortable city walk while admiring the splendid autumn foliage.

For example, it’s a good idea to take a stroll along the shore of Otaru Canal where ivy covering the surface of the buildings has turned into vivid red color; or you can go for a hike around the hillside areas such as the Tenguyama and Otarusumiyoshi Shrine, which are all painted by orange, red maple leaves and golden gingko leaves.

Beautiful Autumn Leaves in Otaru

See also: Japan Fall Foliage Forecast in 2026