Otaru Aquarium, Ropeway, Cinematic Bus Tour From Sapporo

Otaru’s allure shines through this cinematic bus tour from Sapporo. Travelers can marvel at the playful sea lions and captivating marine life at the renowned Otaru Aquarium. The journey then ascends to the summit of Mt. Tengu Ropeway, revealing breathtaking panoramic vistas. With ample time to explore Sakaimachi Street and indulge in sake tastings at Tanaka Sake Brewery, this 8.5-hour experience promises to create unforgettable memories amidst Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes. What else can this tour offer visitors seeking to enjoy Otaru’s unique charm?

Key Points

• The Otaru Aquarium offers a unique glimpse into Hokkaido’s marine life, featuring playful sea lions, graceful green sea turtles, and popular dolphin and penguin shows.
• The Mt. Tengu Ropeway provides stunning year-round views, ascending the mountain and offering a 1-hour visit at the summit with a photo stop.
• The Tanaka Sake Brewery, located on Sakaimachi Street, uses 100% Hokkaido rice to produce premium sake, offering tastings for adults and non-alcoholic options.
• The 8.5-hour cinematic bus tour departs from Sapporo and includes a 1-hour ride to Otaru, 50 minutes of exploring Sakaimachi Street, and 1.5 hours of sightseeing in Otaru’s attractions.
• The tour concludes at Sapporo Station North Exit, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and no immediate payment required for reservation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This tour from Sapporo offers an in-depth exploration of the Otaru Aquarium, Ropeway, and a cinematic bus tour, priced from Kč 1,747 per person.

Spanning 8.5 hours, the tour departs from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel in Sapporo and concludes at Sapporo Station North Exit.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without immediate payment.

The itinerary showcases Sakaimachi Street, Mt. Tengu, and the Tanaka Sake Brewery, with seasonal highlights throughout the year.

Certain restrictions apply, such as not being suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 1-hour bus ride from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel in Sapporo to the charming city of Otaru. Upon arrival, guests will have 50 minutes to explore the picturesque Sakaimachi Street, showcasing nostalgic architecture and local activities. The tour then proceeds to 1.5 hours of sightseeing, followed by a 1-hour visit to Mt. Tengu, including a photo stop to capture the stunning views. The tour concludes at the Sapporo Station North Exit.

Destination	Duration	Highlights
Sakaimachi Street	50 minutes	Shopping, local activities
Sightseeing	1.5 hours	Explore Otaru’s attractions
Mt. Tengu	1 hour	Scenic photo stop

Otaru Aquarium

Although the Otaru Aquarium may not be the largest or most famous in Japan, it offers visitors a unique and captivating glimpse into the rich marine life of the region.

From the playful sea lions to the graceful green sea turtle, the aquarium showcases a diverse collection of Hokkaido’s aquatic creatures. The dolphin and penguin shows are particularly popular, drawing crowds with their intelligent performances.

Beyond the exhibits, the aquarium’s thoughtful design and stunning architecture contribute to an immersive experience, transporting guests into the underwater world.

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply seeking a captivating outing, the Otaru Aquarium is a must-visit destination.

Mt. Tengu Ropeway

After ascending the Otaru Aquarium, visitors can take the Mt. Tengu Ropeway for stunning views year-round.

The ropeway whisks guests up the mountain, providing panoramic vistas likened to movie scenes. At the summit, they’ll enjoy a 1-hour visit, including a photo stop.

The ropeway operates year-round, offering different seasonal experiences – vibrant foliage in autumn, a snowy wonderland in winter, and lush greenery in spring.

Whether seeking dramatic landscapes or just a leisurely ride, the Mt. Tengu Ropeway offers an unforgettable experience as part of the Otaru tour from Sapporo.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tanaka Sake Brewery

As part of the Otaru tour from Sapporo, visitors can explore the Tanaka Sake Brewery, a year-round hotel that uses 100% Hokkaido rice to craft its premium sake.

The brewery offers sake tastings for adults, providing an opportunity to sample the rich, full-bodied flavors that have made Hokkaido’s sake renowned.

For non-drinkers, the brewery also offers non-alcoholic options, ensuring everyone can appreciate the brewery’s artisanal products.

The Tanaka Sake Brewery’s commitment to using local ingredients and traditional methods has earned it a reputation as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Otaru’s cultural heritage.

Sakaimachi Street

Sakaimachi Street, the popular shopping district in Otaru, showcases the city’s nostalgic architecture and local activities.

Visitors can stroll along the quaint, historic buildings, many of which date back to the early 20th century. The street is lined with unique shops, cafes, and galleries, offering a glimpse into Otaru’s traditional culture.

Tourists can browse for local handicrafts, sample traditional snacks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Whether exploring the charming storefronts or simply taking in the picturesque scenery, Sakaimachi Street is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Otaru area.

Important Information

Travelers are required to meet at the lobby of the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel, where a tour guide holding a sign will greet them.

Guests should bring their passport, comfortable shoes, a credit card, and appropriate clothing.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

Late arrivals won’t be accommodated, and no refunds will be issued for missed departures.

Participants should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change.

Seasonal Experience

The tour offers a unique seasonal experience throughout the year.

In spring, visitors can marvel at the delicate cherry blossoms and lush greenery adorning the streets of Otaru.

During summer, they can indulge in colorful soft-serve ice cream and listen to the soothing melodies of traditional wind chimes.

As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms with vibrant foliage and seasonal delicacies.

In winter, the snow-covered streets and buildings enhance Otaru’s enchanting atmosphere, creating a picturesque setting for the tour.

• Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery
• Summer: Colorful soft ice cream and wind chimes
• Autumn: Scenic foliage and seasonal food
• Winter: Snow-covered streets enhancing Otaru’s beauty

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend or Modify the Tour Itinerary?

While the tour’s itinerary is set, travelers can often request modifications or additions within reason. It’s best to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any desired changes or extensions to the planned activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

The tour is suitable for children of all ages, but infants and young children may require additional assistance or supervision. There are no strict age limits, though the tour may not be ideal for very young or elderly participants.

What Language Options Are Available for the Tour?

The tour offers multilingual options, including English. Guides can provide commentary in English to accommodate international travelers. Language availability may vary, so it’s best to inquire about specific language options when booking the tour.

Are Any Meals or Refreshments Included in the Tour?

The tour does not include any meals or refreshments. However, there are opportunities to purchase food and drinks during the free time at Sakaimachi Street and the Tanaka Sake Brewery visit.

Do I Need to Pre-Book Activities at the Attractions?

The tour does not include pre-booked activities at the attractions. Visitors can explore the sites at their own pace during the scheduled sightseeing time. Advance reservations are not required for this tour.

The Sum Up

This cinematic bus tour from Sapporo allows visitors to experience the charm of Otaru. Highlights include marveling at the playful sea lions and captivating marine life at the Otaru Aquarium, taking in breathtaking panoramic views from the Mt. Tengu Ropeway, and enjoying sake tastings at the Tanaka Sake Brewery. With ample time to explore Sakaimachi Street, this 8.5-hour journey promises unforgettable memories amidst Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: