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[summer][ Hokkaido Otaru City] Otaru Ushio Festival Fireworks and a stroll around the canal

summer

Otaru Ushio Festival is a traditional festival held every summer in Otaru, Hokkaido, and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and history. The origins of this festival date back to 1957, when it was first started to celebrate the development of the Otaru Port. It has since grown into an event beloved by local residents and tourists, and is now a major summer event that attracts many people from inside and outside Hokkaido. The main event of the festival is the fireworks display that lights up the night sky. Approximately 5,000 fireworks are launched against the backdrop of the Otaru Canal, providing a spectacular sight that captivates the audience. In addition to the fireworks, visitors can also enjoy traditional local arts and performances, allowing them to experience Japanese culture firsthand. In addition, the fresh seafood and sweets offered at local food stalls are a great opportunity to enjoy food culture. The appeal of the Otaru Ushio Festival is that it is not just a tourist event, but also a place to enjoy interacting with local people. During the festival, you can interact with the local people and experience the warm hospitality that is unique to Hokkaido. By attending this festival, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of the charms of Otaru.

What is the Otaru Ushio Festival? Exploring its history and appeal

Otaru Ushio Festival is a traditional festival held every summer in Otaru, Hokkaido, and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and history. The origins of this festival date back to 1957, when it was first started to celebrate the development of the Otaru Port. It has since grown into an event beloved by local residents and tourists, and is now a major summer event that attracts many people from inside and outside Hokkaido. The main event of the festival is the fireworks display that lights up the night sky. Approximately 5,000 fireworks are launched against the backdrop of the Otaru Canal, providing a spectacular sight that captivates the audience. In addition to the fireworks, visitors can also enjoy traditional local arts and performances, allowing them to experience Japanese culture firsthand. In addition, the fresh seafood and sweets offered at local food stalls are a great opportunity to enjoy food culture. The appeal of the Otaru Ushio Festival is that it is not just a tourist event, but also a place to enjoy interacting with local people. During the festival, you can interact with the local people and experience the warm hospitality that is unique to Hokkaido. By attending this festival, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of the charms of Otaru.

Highlights and best viewing spots for the fireworks festival

The highlight of the Otaru Ushio Festival is the fireworks display, where the night view along the canal and the fireworks combine for a spectacular display. The fireworks display is held on the last day of the festival, and colorful fireworks are launched one after another for about an hour. Particularly recommended viewing spots are the promenade along the Otaru Canal and the area around the Canal Plaza. From these locations, you can enjoy the fireworks and the fantastic view reflected on the water surface of the canal at the same time. It is important to secure a seat in advance when watching the fireworks. Since many tourists visit, securing a spot early will make the viewing more comfortable. It is also useful to bring a portable chair or mat. In addition, if you want to enjoy taking photos, using a tripod will allow you to capture the beautiful contrast between the night view and the fireworks. Public transportation is expected to be crowded on the day of the fireworks display, so we recommend that you plan your travel plans with plenty of time. The venue is within walking distance of JR Otaru Station, so it is easy to access, but try to arrive as early as possible to avoid crowds.

Walking spots and gourmet information around Otaru Canal

When visiting the Otaru Ushio Festival, you can enjoy not only the fireworks but also a stroll around the Otaru Canal. Along the canal, there are stone warehouses and nostalgic streetscapes, and there are many photogenic spots. During the day, you can take a leisurely stroll along the canal and experience the local history and culture. You can also enjoy the city from a special perspective from the water by joining a canal cruise. There are many restaurants and cafes around the canal, where you can taste Otaru's fresh seafood and local sweets. We especially recommend the local sushi shops where you can enjoy fresh sushi and the cheesecake from "LeTAO", an Otaru specialty. By enjoying these gourmet foods, you will be able to fully experience the taste of Otaru. Also, if you are looking for souvenirs, check out the local glass crafts and sake at the shops along the canal. These will not only be a memento of your trip, but will also make a great gift for your loved ones.

[Summer festivals and fireworks]Other recommended spots

Sapporo Summer Festival Beer Garden and Mikoshi

Hokkaido Sapporo City

Subway: A short walk from Odori Station on the Namboku, Tozai and Toho lines

Noboribetsu Hell Festival, a summer festival in a hot spring area

Hokkaido Noboribetsu City

From JR Noboribetsu Station, take the bus bound for Noboribetsu Onsen for about 15 minutes.

Rumoi Tonto Festival - A festival of the sea and fireworks

Hokkaido Rumoi City

About 10 minutes walk from JR Rumoi Station

Hakodate Port Festival Fireworks and Port Town Culture Experience

Hokkaido Hakodate City

About 5 to 15 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station

Otaru Ushio Festival Fireworks and a stroll around the canal

Hokkaido Otaru City

About 15 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station

Muroran Port Festival Port town summer festival

Hokkaido Muroran City

About 10 to 15 minutes walk from JR Muroran Station

Furano Belly Button Festival: A unique dance experience

Hokkaido Furano City

Approximately 4 minutes walk from JR Furano Station

Katsumago Fireworks Festival: A fusion of music and fireworks

Hokkaido Obihiro City

Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Obihiro Station

Hakodate Shimbun Hakodate Port Fireworks Festival: Spectacular night view and fireworks

Hokkaido Hakodate City

JR Hakodate Station: Approx. 3 minutes walk

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