Otaru And Furano

Otaru and Furano are both stunning destinations in Hokkaido, Japan, each offering unique experiences. Let’s dive into a delightful 2-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and charm of both places!

Day 1: Otaru

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a cozy café. Try some fresh pastries or a traditional Japanese breakfast set. Otaru is known for its seafood, so if you’re feeling adventurous, go for some grilled fish!

• Otaru Canal: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal. The historic warehouses lining the canal are a sight to behold, especially in the morning light. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Midday:

• Sakaimachi Street: Head over to Sakaimachi Street, where you can explore charming shops selling glassware, music boxes, and local crafts. Be sure to stop by the Otaru Music Box Museum to see some enchanting music boxes in action.

• Lunch: Grab lunch at one of the local sushi restaurants. Otaru is famous for its fresh seafood, so indulge in some sushi or sashimi. The sushi here is often made with fish caught the same day!

Afternoon:

• Otaru Aquarium: After lunch, visit the Otaru Aquarium. It’s a fun place to see marine life, including seals and penguins. The aquarium also has some great views of the ocean!

• Glassblowing Workshop: If you’re feeling creative, consider joining a glassblowing workshop. You can make your own glass souvenir, which is a fantastic way to remember your trip!

Evening:

• Dinner: For dinner, try a local izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can sample various small dishes. Pair your meal with some local sake for a true Hokkaido experience.

• Night Walk: After dinner, take a stroll along the canal again. The area is beautifully lit at night, and it’s a romantic way to end your day in Otaru.

Day 2: Furano

Morning:

• Travel to Furano: After breakfast, take a train or drive to Furano. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, and the scenery along the way is breathtaking!

• Farm Tomita: Once you arrive in Furano, head straight to Farm Tomita, especially if you’re visiting in summer when the lavender fields are in full bloom. The vibrant colors and fragrant flowers are simply magical!

Midday:

• Lunch at Farm Tomita: Enjoy lunch at the farm’s café, where you can try lavender-flavored ice cream or other local specialties. The views of the flower fields while you eat are just stunning!

Afternoon:

• Ningle Terrace: After lunch, visit Ningle Terrace, a charming collection of log cabins nestled in the forest. Here, you can find unique handmade crafts and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

• Furano Cheese Factory: Next, head to the Furano Cheese Factory. You can learn about cheese-making and even sample some delicious cheeses. Don’t miss the chance to try their fresh mozzarella!

Evening:

• Dinner in Furano: For dinner, look for a local restaurant that serves Hokkaido specialties. You might want to try some fresh produce or a hearty bowl of ramen.

• Relaxing Evening: If you have time, consider visiting a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after your day of exploration. Soaking in a hot spring while surrounded by nature is the perfect way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car can be a great option for flexibility, especially in Furano, where public transport may be limited.
• Seasonal Considerations: If you’re visiting in winter, you might want to check out the ski resorts in Furano instead of the flower fields!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Otaru and Furano! Enjoy your adventure in Hokkaido! 🌸🚂🍣