First Love Again: How Otaru, Hokkaido’s Charm Sparks Lasting Romantic Memories

Hokkaido is a winter wonderland where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking snowscapes without enduring bitter cold. Otaru, a picturesque coastal town, offers the magical fusion of sparkling sea and powdery snow—so romantic it served as the backdrop for iconic films like *Love Letter* and *First Love*.

During my visit, nature treated me to an unforgettable spectacle: a dramatic blizzard that transformed within minutes into a delicate snowfall, creating pure magic under the soft winter light. For photography enthusiasts, these snow-draped landscapes are absolute gold—every shot turns into a masterpiece!

🚗 Getting Around

• **From Sapporo**: Hop on the JR line for a scenic 30-minute ride through Hokkaido’s stunning countryside straight to Otaru.
• **Within Otaru**: The charming city center is easily walkable, but buses are available for longer distances—just check timetables in advance for smooth travels.

📍 Unmissable Highlights

1. **Mount Tengu**: Soar to Otaru’s highest peak via a 4-minute cable car ride for panoramic views of the city and coastline. This romantic spot, featured in *Love Letter* and *First Love*, is perfect for couples—ring the “Bell of Happiness” together for a memory that lasts a lifetime.

2. **Otaru Aquarium**: Dive into an underwater world with 250 marine species. Don’t miss the adorable penguin parade (11:30, 12:40, 14:40) or the thrilling dolphin shows (11:00, 13:00, 15:00)—guaranteed to delight visitors of all ages.

3. **Shukutsu Observatory & Hiyoriyama Lighthouse**: A short climb from the aquarium rewards you with a breathtaking vantage point. Capture the Ferris wheel against the endless Sea of Japan, where winter’s icy beauty meets the deep blue horizon—a photographer’s dream.

4. **Funaoka Slope**: Just steps from Otaru Station, this steep incline—immortalized in *Love Letter*—frames a stunning sea view at its base. Originally designed for fire safety, it’s now a beloved romantic landmark.

5. **Asari & Zenibako Stations**: Known as “Little Kamakura,” these seaside stations offer surreal views where sapphire waters kiss snow-covered shores—a perfect harmony of nature’s contrasts.

6. **Otaru Canal**: The heart of the city, this historic 1,140-meter canal glows enchantingly at dusk when 63 gas lamps illuminate its banks. The red-brick Taisho-era warehouses add vintage charm, while winter’s Snow Light Path Festival (around February) transforms it into a luminous fairy tale.

7. **Otaru Music Box Museum**: Step into a whimsical world of tinkling melodies and intricate music boxes—ideal for unique souvenirs.
8. **Kitaichi Glass Sangokan**: Marvel at exquisite handcrafted glassware in this iconic workshop.
9. **Sankaku Market**: Savor the freshest seafood, from succulent crab to plump sea urchins, in this lively local market.

Pro Tip: Visit between January and March for the most magical snowscapes and festive winter events!