Sapporo , Japan

Full Day Yoichi & Otaru Walking Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This exclusive small-group tour from Sapporo, led by an English-speaking assistant, offers an immersive local experience using trains and buses. Enjoy a pleasant 4km walk through Yoichi and Otaru, gaining insights into local culture and daily life. Explore the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery for authentic whisky, then visit Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura for free tastings of 10 types of Japanese sake. Stroll Otaru's historic Sakaimachi Street, a "living museum," and enjoy a romantic Otaru Canal Cruise at dusk with beautifully illuminated buildings.

This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond typical sightseeing, those passionate about Japanese food culture and history, and individuals preferring intimate, locally-focused, and sustainable travel.

Available options

2025 Tour

Otaru Walking Tour

Nikka Whisky, Sake, Otaru Canl

What's included

Local trains and buses fees

English-speaking assistant fee

Admission fees included in the tour

Detailed itinerary

Yoichi Distillery was the first Nikka Whisky distillery established by Masataka Taketsuru in 1934, and was built in Yoichi, Hokkaido in pursuit of an environment similar to Scotland. There are 4 exhibits showing whisky making and the life of Masataka Taketsuru, a tasting bar (charges apply), as well as products exclusive to the distillery on sale. *Charges apply at the tasting corner.

Tanaka Shuzo is a sake brewery in Otaru City founded in 1899, and Kikkogura, the stone warehouse built around 1905, has been designated as a historic building of the city. Taking advantage of Hokkaido's cool climate, the brewery is able to brew all year round, which is rare in Japan. Visitors can see the manufacturing site and sample about 10 kinds of sake and liqueur for free throughout the year. Enjoy a taste of freshly made unpasteurized sake available all year round.

Enjoy free time for lunch while admiring the view of retro stone buildings lined up along the historic Otaru Sakaimachi Street. Spend luxurious moments soaking up the nostalgic atmosphere while relishing fresh seafood from Hokkaido and local specialties.

Stop 4

Enjoy a cruise (approx. 40 min). *The Otaru Canal cruise may be canceled due to weather or operational conditions In addition, depending on road conditions and congestion, customers may be guided to an alternative location.

What's not included

Lunch

Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery tasting corner charges

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This is a special tour for international visitors. Please understand that residents of Japan cannot make bookings for this tour

The tour may be canceled or the course altered in case operation is suspended or inclement weather (poor visibility due to strong winds, snowstorms, etc.) is in the forecast

Cancellation may occur due to traffic obstruction caused by heavy snowfall in Sapporo City, Otaru City and, Yoichi District

Paid tastings are available at Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, while Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura offers complimentary tastings of approximately 10 types of sake and liqueurs

Customers under 20 years of age are not allowed to drink alcohol, but may participate in the tour

Public transportation will be used to move around on this tour. Please note that seating is not guaranteed. A taxi may be used for transfer due to timetable revision and operation circumstances.

In the event that the Otaru Canal Cruise cannot be operated (due to inclement weather, traffic congestion, or other circumstances), we will arrange the following alternative experience: Music Box Making Experience: Orgel Doh Yukobo or Orgeldoh® Kaimeiro. There will be no tour cancellations or refunds as a result of this change

The times noted in the itinerary are estimates only, and may vary depending on circumstances

If making plans for before or after the tour on the same day, and for those joining from outside Hokkaido, planning your schedule to have enough time is recommended

The Hokkaido Sapporo Tourist Information Center, our meeting point, is closed with its shutters down at the time of the meeting as it's before business hours. Please wait in front of the blue sign that says "Hokkaido Sapporo Tourist Information Center"

Customers who are late for the departure time will have their reservations canceled. Please give yourself plenty of time

Lunch is not included on the tour (customers are to purchase their own meals). Customers can enjoy their choice of meal at Otaru Sakaimachi Street

Please wear shoes and clothing which are easy to walk in. A distance of about 4 km will be covered on this tour

This tour involves walking outdoors. Please take measures against heat or cold depending on the season. Summer: Temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Please bring items that protect from the heat such as sunglasses, hat, parasol, neck cooler, etc. Winter: The tour may proceed in snowy conditions. Please be sure to dress warmly and wear non-slip footwear such as shoes with slip-resistant soles or rubber boots

Large luggage such as suitcases cannot be brought during the tour. Please have them delivered in advance, or leave them in a locker or at your hotel before participating

Meeting point

Meet in front of Hokkaido Sapporo Tourist Information Center, JR Sapporo Station West Concourse North Exit. The shutters are closed as it is before business hours. Please wait in front of the blue sign that reads "Hokkaido Sapporo Tourist Information Center.

Important notes

If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.

About Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.

Historical 1-2 hours Free entry, beer tasting costs vary

Odori Park

A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on the season Free

Sapporo TV Tower

A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.

Architecture 1 hour ¥790 for adults

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.

Soup Curry

A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Genghis Khan

Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.

Dinner Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Skiing in Niseko Snowboarding in Rusutsu Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through Odori Park Shopping in Tanukikoji Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum Exploring Otaru's historic district