Otaru hosts cultural festivals and seasonal events

Otaru, Hokkaido, is hosting various seasonal events and cultural festivals as part of a three-day holiday weekend. The 77th Otaru City Cultural Festival is currently underway, running through November 8.

Key attractions include the Mt. Tengu Ropeway, which is hosting the Mt. Tengu Thanksgiving Festival and Otaru Citizen Discounts. The Otaru Aquarium is running special exhibitions, including ‘This Special Exhibition Has Bones’ and the ‘Salmon is a Drink 2026’ project.

Other local activities include the operation of the steam locomotive ‘Iron Horse’ at the Otaru City Museum and various seasonal openings at local parks and museums. The Otaru Canal continues its evening illuminations, with gas lamps and warehouse lighting available to visitors.