Kitaichi Glass Otaru (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kitaichi Glass Otaru?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Kids can watch glassblowing and make simple beads, yet tightly packed shelves of breakables, no play corner, and limited child toilets force parents to supervise nonstop.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee lets the family explore at their own pace.
- Stroller accessible: Wide aisles and ramps in Building No. 3 accommodate strollers.
Challenges:
- Slippery stone floors: Watch for uneven or wet areas, especially after snow or rain.
- Limited English signage: Bring a translation app for workshop instructions and labels.
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 with kids?
- Kids love the oil lamp lighting show
- Hands-on bead workshop fits short attention spans
- Venetian costumes add playful photo fun
- Cozy café break under glowing gas lamps
- Explore three themed glass galleries
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for demos, workshops, browsing and a café break without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Oil lamp lighting ceremony:
Watch staff light 167 glass oil lamps in the Meiji-era stone hall.
Tip: Arrive by 8:45 AM to see the full ritual before crowds arrive.
Studio demo tours:
See glassblowers and lampworking artisans at work up close.
Tip: Tours run 9:30 AM–6 PM; check the schedule for lamp vs glassblowing sessions.
Bead-making workshop:
Make a glass bead pendant or strap in 20–30 minutes.
Tip: Book your spot on arrival; perfect for kids’ short attention spans.
Venetian costume photos:
Dress kids in colorful Venetian-style costumes for fun souvenir photos.
Tip: Rent at No. 3 hall; photo prints start at ¥500 per sheet.
Café under the lamps:
Enjoy milk-tea soft-serve ice cream or Vienna coffee in a lamplit hall.
Tip: Order inside Kitaichi Hall for a cozy break surrounded by glowing lamps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kitaichi Glass Otaru
- Visit early: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and shorter workshop wait times.
- Combine with canal walk: Stroll Sakaimachi-dori and the Otaru Canal after your visit.
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 warm glow of 167 lamps contrasts beautifully with snow outside. Dress kids in layers for the short walk from the station.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip train fare (2 adults, 2 kids) | JPY 3,840 |
| Bead-making workshop (4×¥1000) | JPY 4,000 |
| Soft-serve ice cream (4×¥450) | JPY 1,800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 9,640 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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
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