Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide worth booking?
Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide is a 8-hour experience in Sapporo, Japan, from $680 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 57 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (5)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $680 per person
In this 8-hour tour, you can visit both Otaru and Yoichi with a licensed guide and a private vehicle. The famous Otaru Canal and historical buildings, such as stone warehouses, contribute to the nostalgic atmosphere of Otaru’s townscape. Otaru is home to a large number of Hokkaido’s remaining historical buildings, many of which have been restored and converted into cafes and shops. Yoichi is a small coastal town located about 30 30-minute drive from Otaru. Yoichi is home to the Yoichi Distillery owned by Nikka Whisky. The town is also famous for its fruit, particularly apples, and is becoming increasingly popular as a wine region. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize an eight-hour tour that's best for you!
What you get
About this experience
In this 8-hour tour, you can visit both Otaru and Yoichi with a licensed guide and a private vehicle. The famous Otaru Canal and historical buildings, such as stone warehouses, contribute to the nostalgic atmosphere of Otaru’s townscape. Otaru is home to a large number of Hokkaido’s remaining historical buildings, many of which have been restored and converted into cafes and shops. Yoichi is a small coastal town located about 30 30-minute drive from Otaru. Yoichi is home to the Yoichi Distillery owned by Nikka Whisky. The town is also famous for its fruit, particularly apples, and is becoming increasingly popular as a wine region. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize an eight-hour tour that's best for you!
What's included
Included
- Private Vehicle
- Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Not included
- Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under 'What to Expect.'
What you'll see and do
Sapporo
Be picked up in Sapporo by your guide and driver. Enjoy the 1 hour drive to the Otaru area in comfort.
60 minutes here
Otaru Art Base
Otaru City's historical buildings of the early 20th century are now used as various resources for tourism. The Otaru Art Base located opposite the Otaru Canal across Rinkosen Street is one such facility. There are four historical buildings where 20 of the largest banks in Hokkaido were gathered, formerly the center of Hokkaido's economy known as "North Wall Street." What was the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch as seen in the picture is now home to the Nitori Museum of Art, and includes displays such as Japanese and foreign paintings, wood carvings, and more. In the basement you will find the Art Nouveau Art Déco Glass Gallery. Admission fee Common ticket for all four museums: General 2,900 yen, University student 2,000 yen, High school student 1,500 yen, Junior high school student 1,000 yen, Elementary school student 500 yen
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Otaru Sakaimachi Street
If you're travelling for pleasure, then you'll want to enjoy gourmet and shopping. Both can be done at Otaru's Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street, located on the inland side of Rinkosen Street, parallel to the Otaru Canal. It is a one-way street that stretches about 900 meters from North Wall Street to the Marchen Crossroads where you will find the Bank of Japan Otaru Branch. Both sides of the street are lined with old merchant shops and Western-style buildings. Nearby to the Otaru Canal, it is another very popular tourist spot.
60 minutes here
Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura
Otaru may be known for its nostalgic influence of historic Western buildings and glass crafts, but there is also a spot that conveys the history of Japan from long ago. One of these places is the Tanaka Sake Brewery, founded in 1899. Many types of alcoholic beverages are manufactured here, including plum wine, sweet sake, and of course the beloved local sake of Otaru, Takaragawa. Because the cool climate of Otaru allows for the manufacture of sake year-round, the Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkougura is a great place to visit at any time of the year.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Ski Museum
Anyone can enjoy strolling the various beautiful landscapes of historical Otaru. Overlooking this beautiful seaside city and the Sea of Japan is Mt. Tengu, about 15 minutes by car from the Otaru IC. The Mt. Tengu Ropeway can take you from the foot of the mountain to the very top, a total distance of 735 meters, in about 4 minutes. From the mountain summit you can even get a great view of the Shakotan Peninsula. Rope way price *roundtrip Adults: 1600 JPY Children: 800 JPY
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Otaru Canal
The Otaru Canal is a staple when it comes to famous sightseeing spots of Hokkaido. Once the distribution hub of Hokkaido, it boasted a population that even surpassed that of Sapporo. At that time the canal was used to offload ships via barges, and was established to lengthen the distance that goods could be distributed. Eventually the canal was no longer necessary to serve its function once the docks were established and was to be landfilled. However it currently stands as a place for citizens and tourists alike to relax and enjoy with its promenades and gas lamps lighting the riverbanks.
Pass by without stopping
Fugoppe Cave
About 5000 years ago, it is said to be a mural painting of the era when Jomon people were in Hokkaido. More than 200 mural paintings carved a mysterious human figure (there are feathers, there is a horn). Pursuit of wonder, traveling deepens. Admission Adults: 300 yen, Children: 100 yen
1 minutes here · Admission not included
Old Shimoyoichi Unjoya
The only such building still standing in Japan, the Unjyoya was a commercial building that served as a place for trade between Japanese and the native Ainu people during the Edo Period. Today, the Unjyoya provides an opportunity to learn about business during that period. Designated as a National Historical Site and an Important Cultural Property. Admission Fee: Adults 300yen, Children 100yen
1 minutes here · Admission not included
Space Apple Yoichi Michi-no-Eki
This road station offers a wide variety of juices and snacks unique to Yoichi, a town famous for its fruits. The most popular items are the handmade apple pies made with apples grown in Yoichi, and the gelato ice cream. Depending on the season, freshly picked fruits and vegetables delivered straight from the farm are available. Taste the local flavors and blow away the fatigue of driving.
30 minutes here
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
During the free guided tour, Nikka's guides will provide information on the whisky production process and the history of Nikka. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy a complimentary tasting. * Guided tours only, with prior reservation. * Visitors without prior reservation will be refused admission. *Self-guided tours continue to be suspended.
90 minutes here
Sapporo
You will drive back to Sapporo with your guide and driver. Please note that if you wish to end your tour in the Otaru area,your tour time will be cut one hour short as the vehicle must return to Sapporo.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Van (Up to 7 Pax)
Van (Up to 7 Pax) Pickup included
Minivan (Up to 4 Pax)
Minivan (Up to 4 Pax) Pickup included
Regular Car (Up to 2 Pax)
Regular Car (Up to 2 Pax) Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ja, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 7 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Japan Guide Agency
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
1 mentionTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Small groups
1 mentionThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent
Landscapes of mountains still snowy and rocky coasts on such a small perimeter is exceptional. Our very professional and attentive guide introduced us to the history of fishing in this part of Otaru. Exciting! Thanks again to our guide Mrs. Tracy .
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your review. I couldn't be happier if you enjoyed my tour! It was a pleasure showing around, exploring and sharing the stories of Hokkaido with you. There are very distinct four seasons in Hokkaido and each season is amazing. Hoping you to come over at any time and guide you again in the near future. All the best. Tracy
via Viator (translated)
Highly recommended day trip from Sapporo
Great day trip from Sapporo! Our guide, Mr Roy Aoki, is very knowledgeable of the history of Nikka Whisky and it's founder and personally guided us throughout the distillery in Yoichi. Our Otaru visit is very rewarding, thanks to Roy who recommended the best place to purchase a music box and best place to have snacks. More power to your tour agency👏👏👏
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your kind review. I am very glad you enjoyed the tour. The weather in Yoichi was wonderful, so called bluebird day ! I hope you come back to Hokkaido in summer to enjoy flowers and beautiful scenery. Roy
via Tripadvisor
Sensational tour. Worth every cent!
Absolutely sensational tour and a must do when in Sapporo. The ease of getting around with private driver and private car was so confortable and worth the money. Time is an investment when on holiday, and so our day was so much more productive than going solo on trains and public transportation. The Yoichi Distillery Tour and Otaru were a highlight for us, and we were able to customise what we wanted to do when. I reccomend doing the Yoichi distillery tour first with less crowds.
via Viator
Excellent Tour
I had never heard of Otaru but it was listed on the Japan Guide Agency site so we thought we would go. Our guide, Ryoei Aoki (Roy) reached out to me a month before the tour to see what things we were interested in visiting. We picked a few from the list on the site and he suggested a couple of others. We started in Yoichi and finished in Otaru. We had an amazing time. It was a lovely town, with great history. Roy-san was very knowledgeable about the history of the region and he was efficient in showing us the highlights of the town. It was much more than we expected. Otaru is a popular tourist town with more than you can do in a single visit. We're glad we got to see the highlights and look forward to returning for a longer stay. I can highly recommend Roy-san and Japan Guide Agency.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for the very kind review. I am very glad to know you enjoyed the tour. Your choice of destinations were so exellent that it was easy for me to guide you. Please come back again to Hokkaido. Each season has its unique charm. Roy
via Tripadvisor
Best tour ever!
This was a great tour from start to finish. Hiroko contacted us in advance with suggested places to visit. We were able to do everything that we wanted to see during our tour. She was very knowledgeable and very professional. We would highly recommend!
Response from the operator: I'm happy to receive your compliment. It was my pleasure to travel with you. Please have a safe flight to Hawaii. See you again! Hiroko
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $680 to $220,300
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Japan Guide Agency, who run 223 experiences we rank across 11 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.1 and 6 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Japan Guide Agency runsWhy this scores 57
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sapporo.
How much does Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide cost?
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Prices start at $680 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sapporo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sapporo is not rushed.
Is Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Sapporo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sapporo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sapporo and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sapporo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Sapporo?
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On Outty we rank every Sapporo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour, Wagashi traditional japanese sweets class, Mondo's most popular No.1!Private experienceThe king of buckwheat noodles making and Japanese food in Sapporo!A plan to enjoy tempura!. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Sapporo?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Sapporo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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Included: Private Vehicle; Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'; and Licensed Local English Speaking Guide. Not included: Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses; You cannot combine multiple tour groups; and Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under 'What to Expect.'. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 198 listed pickup locations in and around Sapporo. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide offered in?
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It is offered in Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Sapporo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Van (Up to 7 Pax), Minivan (Up to 4 Pax), Regular Car (Up to 2 Pax). Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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