Day 3 was a mix of city views and coastal charm. I started with a scenic morning in Sapporo, then took a short train ride to the romantic port town of Otaru. It was one of my favorite days of the trip.
🚡 Mt. Moiwa Ropeway & Observation Deck
The morning began with a ride up the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. The view from the summit was wide and quiet — you can see all of Sapporo and the surrounding green hills.
🐑 Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
Next, I visited Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, famous for its statue of Dr. William S. Clark and wide views of the city. The open field and wind felt refreshing.
🚉 Afternoon Trip to Otaru
By midday, I took the JR train to Otaru — only about 45 minutes from Sapporo Station. It’s known for its preserved canal area and nostalgic atmosphere.
🛶 Otaru Canal Walk
The iconic Otaru Canal was peaceful and photogenic. Stone buildings and gentle water made it feel like stepping into a different time.
🐟 Lunch at Sankaku Market
I had lunch at Sankaku Market, just beside the station. The uni don (sea urchin bowl) was fresh, creamy, and unforgettable.
🎶 Otaru Music Box Museum
Next stop: the whimsical Otaru Music Box Museum. The vintage-style building, soft melodies, and sparkle everywhere made it a magical detour.
🍰 Dessert at LeTAO Main Store
Of course, I couldn’t skip dessert — I visited the LeTAO Main Store for their famous double fromage cheesecake. Worth every bite.
🖼️ Otaru Art Base
I wrapped up the Otaru visit at the Otaru Art Base, a unique blend of galleries inside historic buildings. A perfect quiet spot to wind down.
🍶 Back to Sapporo & Dinner
After the train ride back, I kept it simple with a small izakaya dinner near the Airbnb. Warm lighting, local dishes, and a mellow mood to end the day.
✨ Day 3 Wrap-up
This day had the best of both worlds — the beauty of Sapporo from above and the charm of Otaru by the water. It was a reminder of how much variety Hokkaido offers, even within a single day trip.
📌 Tip: Buy a round-trip JR ticket early if you’re visiting Otaru on a weekend. And bring your camera — you’ll want it!
Island Glow Life 
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