Description
Points of Interest
- Otaru Canal
- Old Yoichi Fukuhara gyoba
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
This tour traces the history of the people's life in Yoichi. Explore how Otaru and Yoichi have flourished up to the present day. Otaru/Yoichi is one of the largest herring producers in Japan, and we will visit facilities where you can learn about it.
First, we will visit Old Fukuhara Gyoba. At this facility, you can learn a lot about herring fishing and see how they used to live in the buildings that used to belong to the Fukuhara family, who used to fish for herring. A stroll through the spacious grounds will give you a sense of the layout and role of each building, as well as a sense of how active it was at the time. The buildings have been left as they were in the past, so there are no stairs.
Next, we will visit Old Shimoyoichi Unjyoya near the fishing grounds, which was used by merchants who traded with the Ainu people, to imagine how trade was conducted in those days. It was built in 1853 by Takeya Hayashi Chozaemon, a merchant, and is the only existing Unjyoya in Hokkaido.
Visit the Otaru City Museum to see history, nature and culture of Otaru, located near the Otaru Canal. First, in the first exhibition room, the history of Otaru from the Ainu period to modern times is introduced from various angles.
Finally, Free time of Otaru Canal is waiting for you. Strolling 1hour and half then back to the pier.
Special Notes:
Old Fukuhara Gyoba is using an original building, so there are only stairs and no elevators. Tour not recommened for guests using wheelchair.Shoes need to be removed before entering Main Hall of Old Fukuhara Gyoba and Old Shimoyoichi Unjyoya.
Please bring Japanese yen. After free time at Otaru Canal, please return to the terminal by yourself.
Otaru pier is just 5~10min walk from Otaru Canal. (In case of Katsunoh Pier, return by bus.)
Details
Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.