Slow Life in Hokkaido

--------------------------------------- Sapporo. Otaru -------------------------------------

This is our first post and review. We apologize for any omissions. We are new to writing. We have had the opportunity to travel to Japan three times, but we have never been to Hokkaido. So we decided to meet up with friends to join this trip. We planned it ourselves, booking accommodation, flights, and train tickets. It was a relaxed and easy-going trip where we could go wherever we wanted. We planned a lot of sightseeing, but we actually did very little because we were so relaxed and lazy. Hence, it became a slow-life trip.

Before we begin, for those who may not know, Hokkaido is a large island located in the northernmost region of Japan. Due to its geographical location, Hokkaido enjoys a cool climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a refreshing escape. Moreover, Hokkaido boasts stunning natural landscapes and a romantic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable getaway.

Hello

Good morning with the bright weather. What you can't miss is taking photos when you wake up, eat, sleep, and move. Take photos all day long ^^ Today, I will take you to visit Otaru. What is Otaru? Otaru City is a small charming city on the island of Hokkaido. It is one of the famous tourist destinations in Japan that Thai people like to visit.

Starting at the train station, take out your JR pass and wait for the train at Sapporo Station. Take the train to Minami Otaru Station, which takes about 40 minutes.

We have arrived. After exiting the station, take a photo and continue walking. Cross the street and keep going straight.

After walking for a while, I finally arrived at the Otaru Canal, the LANDMARK of Otaru. If you don't come here, it's like you haven't been to Otaru! Otaru, a former small port town, still retains its traditional Japanese charm. The atmosphere may not be as romantic as when it's covered in snow, but the weather is really good, I confirm! It's great to just take a walk and enjoy the cool breeze.

The streets surrounding the city are lined with shops selling music boxes and glassware, as well as a plethora of souvenir shops, Japanese restaurants, and various confectionery stores. With such an abundance of culinary delights, a must-try is the LETAO patisserie. So, what are you waiting for? Let's continue our culinary adventure! ^^

Taking a leisurely stroll, I arrived at the Otaru Music Box Museum, a historic Japanese music box museum located on Sakaimachi Dori. The Western-style building features a steam clock from Vancouver at its entrance. Inside, there are sections selling music boxes and various souvenirs, as well as an exhibition area showcasing the history of music boxes. If you're looking for a unique music box to give as a gift to a loved one, this is the place to be. You're sure to be impressed.

The next destination is the Tenguyama Ropeway, a scenic spot offering panoramic views of the city. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas encompassing Otaru City, the harbor, and Ishikari Bay. The ropeway also features souvenir shops and restaurants, allowing visitors to indulge in local delicacies while soaking in the stunning scenery. The cool mountain air adds to the overall experience.

Map of Otaru City

After a long day of walking, I'm going to relax my muscles tonight. Good night, sweet dreams.

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Every morning before setting out...

Transportation within Sapporo is convenient due to the city's well-developed public transportation system. It boasts three subway lines and an extensive bus network, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the city.

The weather today is perfect for a trip to the Ishiya Chocolate Factory, home of the famous Shiroi Koibito chocolate. The factory features a shop, cafe, restaurant, and chocolate museum, offering a variety of chocolate treats. Don't miss this must-visit destination for chocolate lovers! Every trip to Japan requires bringing back some of these chocolates as souvenirs. Once you try them, you'll be hooked! The journey begins at Odori Station, where you can take the Tozai subway line to Miyanosawa Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the chocolate factory.

For tonight's dinner, we went to a luxurious restaurant that is popular among Thai tour groups. It was a giant crab buffet with a wide variety of crab dishes. I was so busy eating that I didn't take any pictures, and I can't remember the name of the restaurant. All I know is that it was very expensive. This meal cost 1600 baht per person.

Tanukikoji Shopping Street: A Classic Covered Arcade in Sapporo

Tanukikoji, a classic covered shopping arcade located near the bustling Susukino entertainment district, offers a unique shopping experience under its kilometer-long roof. Divided into seven sections, the arcade boasts over 100 shops lining its sides, catering to diverse needs.

From restaurants and dessert shops to game centers, convenience stores, pharmacies, clothing stores, shoe shops, ABC Mart, Don Quijote discount stores, souvenir shops, and more, Tanukikoji presents a treasure trove of shopping opportunities. Be warned, though, this vibrant arcade might tempt you to splurge!

Note: The original text mentions that the author was too busy shopping to take many pictures.

Susukino, the largest entertainment district in northern Japan, comes alive at night. For those seeking a taste of authentic Japanese nightlife, this vibrant district offers a plethora of options. From bustling bars and restaurants to lively karaoke spots, Susukino caters to every entertainment desire. Even the narrow alleys are lined with culinary gems, ensuring that no visitor goes hungry.

This evening's dinner was grilled and smoked. I can't remember the name of the restaurant, but I know it was located in a building in the Susukino district. It was delicious! I feel like everything I eat in Japan is delicious. Haha, maybe I'm just imagining things.

Our second night, how could we miss it... Drink drank drunk ... two bars in one night, cheers! Let's keep drinking!

The cool weather is perfect for sipping a cold beer. The first bar is a bit pricey, but the staff is incredibly handsome. I'd love to have some of that bitter liquor; seeing your face makes it even sweeter. Hehe... No matter how much I drink, I never get drunk. If I keep drinking here, I'll probably go broke. Let's go drink at a local bar on the side of the road instead. The Susukino district is amazing, I must say. The beer is cheap, the oysters are fresh, and oh, it's so good! I'm so drunk I can't count sheep. 555

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A light image for this morning.

Odori Park, located in the heart of Sapporo, stretches from north to south. In summer, the park is a vibrant green space, while in winter, it is blanketed in snow. The park also hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival. Odori Park is divided into five sections: the Flower Section, the Gathering Section, the Knowledge Section, the Oasis Section, and the Exchange Section. The park features a 147.2-meter-tall television tower, a symbol of Sapporo, and a fountain in the square.

The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, also known as the Red Brick Office, is a large, red-brick building that serves as a significant historical landmark in Hokkaido. Constructed in 1888, the building served as the government office for over 80 years before relocating to a new building behind it. Admission is free.

The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Horse-drawn carriages are available for sightseeing in the city.

This trip feels like a walk in the park, just to eat. It's better to go to the mall and eat when I'm hungry. I like it, the staff is so cute.

This is the first content, let's stop here for now. Actually, I have more to write, but I'm tired of my own laziness. Experience, travel companions, and see you again. I promise to go again. Japan is never boring, no matter where you go. Thank you for reading until the end.