Otaru and Sapporo 10-Hour Private Taxi Day Tour With Multiple Vehicles

Overview

Embark on a flexible and comprehensive 10-hour private taxi day tour combining the romantic, historical port town of Otaru with the modern, cosmopolitan capital of Sapporo. This itinerary is perfectly designed to capture the best of both cities, offering a rich blend of nostalgic architecture, glass artistry, fresh seafood, and iconic city landmarks.

A private chartered taxi provides the necessary efficiency to navigate between the two cities (approximately a 45-minute drive) and allows for seamless movement within both locations, which is particularly crucial for maximizing time in Sapporo’s scattered urban attractions. You can enjoy the preserved atmosphere of the Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street before effortlessly transitioning to see Sapporo’s highlights like the Clock Tower, Odori Park, or the Mt. Moiwa night view.

Whether you are seeking the tranquility of the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival in winter or the vibrant energy of Sapporo’s downtown, this comfortable journey in a luxury Toyota Alphard or a spacious Toyota Hiace ensures a stress-free exploration of Hokkaido’s culture and history.

Highlights

• Otaru Canal & Illuminations: Stroll along the historical Otaru Canal, lined with preserved stone warehouses and romantic Victorian-style gas lamps, which are particularly captivating during the evening illumination.
• Art and Sweets Street: Explore Sakaimachi Street, the hub of Otaru’s famous glasswork (Otaru Glass Workshop) and music box artistry, and indulge in Hokkaido’s premier sweets at the flagship LeTAO store.
• Iconic Sapporo Landmarks: See the key historical symbols of Hokkaido’s capital, including the Sapporo Clock Tower, the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office), and the seasonal beauty of Odori Park.
• Gourmet Seafood and Ramen: Savor the freshest seafood at Otaru’s markets (like the Otaru General Wholesale Market) or enjoy a bowl of authentic Otaru-style ramen, famed for its light soup and chewy noodles.
• Panoramic City View: Conclude the tour with a spectacular view from a high vantage point, such as the romantic night view from Mt. Otaru (Tenguyama) or the panoramic view from Mt. Moiwa in Sapporo (optional ropeway required).

Complete Details

The Otaru and Sapporo 10-Hour Private Taxi Day Tour is structured to provide an in-depth experience of Otaru’s historical charm, followed by an efficient sightseeing circuit of Sapporo’s major landmarks.

Otaru Focus (Approx. 5 hours): The tour begins by immersing guests in the “Little Kyoto of the North.” The primary stops are the Otaru Canal for a walk or optional canal cruise, and the pedestrian-friendly Sakaimachi Street. Here, guests have ample time to browse the unique shops, including the Otaru Music Box Museum, various glassworks studios, and confectionery factories. Lunch is typically enjoyed in Otaru, focusing on the fresh local seafood like salmon roe (ikura) or the local ramen. An optional visit to a sake or whiskey brewery can be included.

Sapporo Focus (Approx. 4 hours): After Otaru, the taxi heads to Sapporo. The itinerary includes essential city sightseeing: a drive-by or stop at the Sapporo Clock Tower and the Former Hokkaido Government Office. Time is allocated for a relaxing stroll through Odori Park, the city’s central green oasis, which hosts festivals throughout the year. For the finale, the private taxi can take you to either Mt. Otaru (Tenguyama) or Mt. Moiwa in Sapporo for a night view (timing permitting). Alternatively, the driver can provide transport to Sapporo’s vibrant entertainment district, Susukino, for dinner.

Vehicle Options: Choose between the luxury and quiet ride of the Toyota Alphard (6-7 passengers) for a premium experience, or the robust and high-capacity Toyota Hiace/Wagon (10 passengers) for larger groups and extra luggage. All chartered vehicles include complimentary wet towels, bottled water, and in-car charging.

Booking with Jasumo

For booking this private 10-hour Otaru and Sapporo Day Tour, or to arrange any custom tour to include specific Sapporo attractions like the Shiroi Koibito Park or the Sapporo Beer Museum, you can contact us directly with your requirements and preferred vehicle. You can contact us using the Contact Us Form to begin your reservation and specify your group size, luggage needs, and any bespoke destinations you wish to include.

FAQs

Why is Otaru often called the “Little Kyoto of the North”?

Otaru earned this nickname due to its preserved historical architecture and cultural significance. Unlike many modern Japanese cities, Otaru retains many late 19th- and early 20th-century Western-style buildings, former stone warehouses, and nostalgic gas lamps, evoking a charming, retro atmosphere reminiscent of a historical city like Kyoto.

In winter, how does the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival affect the tour?

During the annual Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (usually in February), the city lights up with thousands of handmade snow lanterns and candles, creating a magical atmosphere. This tour is ideal for accessing the main sites, as the private taxi allows you to easily arrive and stay until the evening to fully experience the beautiful illuminations.

Which night view is better, Mt. Otaru or Mt. Moiwa in Sapporo?

Both offer spectacular views, but they are different. Mt. Otaru (Tenguyama) offers a panoramic view of Otaru city and the coastline. Mt. Moiwa offers a wider, more glittering and expansive view of the entire Sapporo metropolis, and is one of the three “New Night Views of Japan,” making it generally considered the premier option.

Can the driver wait while we enjoy a meal or a canal cruise in Otaru?

Yes, the 10-hour private taxi service includes the driver waiting patiently for you at the pre-determined parking area while you enjoy your meals, go shopping along Sakaimachi Street, take an optional canal cruise, or browse museums, allowing you to explore freely without rushing.

What are the must-try local foods during the Otaru part of the tour?

Otaru is famous for its exceptionally fresh seafood, particularly sushi and kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls) featuring local salmon and sea urchin. Additionally, you must try the famous cheese double-fromage cheesecake from LeTAO and the sweet pastries and chocolates found along Sakaimachi Street.

Location