Kitaichi Glass Otaru (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Kitaichi Glass Otaru?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Morning lamp-lighting, piano in retro hall, romantic café glow, and Venetian costume photos create a shared mood that many pairs seek; easy rail access supports a half-day date.
Positives:
- Romantic Lighting: The flicker of 167 gas lamps makes for intimate couple photos.
- Shared Experience: Working side by side in a glass workshop creates lasting memories.
Challenges:
- Peak Crowds: Mornings and weekends fill up quickly—plan an early or late visit.
- Language Barrier: Workshop instructions are mainly in Japanese—ask staff for English guidance.
What is Kitaichi Glass Otaru?
- A historic glassware complex founded in 1901, comprising multiple shops and galleries along Otaru’s Sakaimachi-dori
- Housed in renovated Meiji-period stone warehouses and European-style buildings that blend retro charm with functional display spaces
- Showcases an extensive range of handcrafted glass products—from decorative snow globes and kerosene lamps to refined Japanese and Western-style designs
What is so special about Kitaichi Glass Otaru for couple trip?
- Historic warehouse halls lit by 167 oil lamps
- Interactive glass workshops perfect for two
- Café under warm lamp glow with local treats
- Photo-ready European interiors ideal at dusk
- Handcrafted souvenirs unique to Otaru
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can enjoy the lamp-lighting ritual, a workshop and a café break without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Oil-Lamp Lighting Ritual:
Watch staff light 167 glass oil lamps in Building No. 3 at 8:45 AM.
Tip: Arrive by 8:30 AM to secure a front-row view and avoid crowds.
Hands-On Glass Workshop:
Create a lamp-bead strap or sandblast a tumbler together.
Tip: Book your spot by 10:00 AM and choose sandblasting (~2 hrs) for a lasting keepsake.
Kitaichi Hall Café:
Sip Vienna coffee under flickering gas lamps.
Tip: Try the milk-tea soft-serve (¥450) and sit near the north window for best light.
Costume Photo:
Rent Venetian-style costumes and take a souvenir portrait.
Tip: Reserve costumes on weekdays to avoid waits; prints start at ¥500.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kitaichi Glass Otaru
- Book Early: Reserve workshops online or arrive before 10:00 AM to secure spots.
- Extend Your Stroll: After visiting, walk to the nearby Otaru Canal for sunset views.
Reviews of Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Jeanne Ivanova
We just stopped by for a morning coffee and found it very charming. The interior feels warm and cozy with the oil lamps—something you won’t really see in Europe. (They do give off a particular scent, but that’s perfectly normal.) We had to wait a little before getting in, and keep in mind there’s no table service. Still, it’s definitely worth a stop to have a look around.
Culture Geek Travels
Amazing glass store in Otaru. They have huge variety of handmade glass items. Be careful and read where is it made as some are made in Japan but I saw also selection of glass made in different European countries. So check if you search for items from particular country. There is many floors and the store is really huge. The products have different price ranges so for many budgets. Overall great st...
Cheeky Moron
Glass wares are quite expensive, but exquisite and pretty. Had a good time admiring the pieces and buying some.
C Kwok
Love the glass art made in Japan. The special colors and shapes, just so unique. Bought quite a few wine glass back home and they have packed them all safe and firm for us, as always.
Kai Yip Thong
Didn't visit the shop as its super long queue, however just enjoy the ice cream at the other end of the shop. If you have enough time should visit this to see their kerosene lamps and glass floats used for fishing nets. A well-known oil lamps shops in Otaru since 1901.
When is the best time to visit Kitaichi Glass Otaru (Sapporo, Japan)?
In winter, the lamp-lit hall feels extra cozy after a snowy canal walk. In summer, the cool stone rooms offer relief from heat. Weekdays see fewer visitors year-round.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sandblasting workshop for two | JPY 4,500 |
| Soft-serve ice cream for two | JPY 900 |
| Vienna coffee for two | JPY 1,200 |
| Small glass ornament | JPY 3,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 9,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Address: 7-26 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027, Japan
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About Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 134-33-199310 BEST nearby Activities
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