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Japan/Things to Do in Sapporo, with kids

Otaru Music Box Museum (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Otaru Music Box Museum?

76%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Bright displays, moving automata and easy DIY courses entertain children 3–12, but parents must watch them closely around fragile glass and help them climb stairs between floors.

Google
Reviews4.2/ 5
(from 12,586 reviews)
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Positives:

  • Free entry: No admission fee lets kids explore freely without worrying about cost.
  • Photo spots: Steam clock outside and open-roof atrium make fun family backdrops.

Challenges:

  • Stairs only: Main building has no elevator; be ready to carry small children up stairs.
  • Crowded workshops: DIY area can fill up; keep children close and plan for a short wait.
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🏖️ Explore Otaru Music Box Museum with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Otaru Music Box Museum. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Otaru Music Box Museum?

  • A specialty museum and retailer showcasing over 3,000 artisanal mechanical music boxes from around the world
  • Housed in a rare early 20th-century European-style brick building with interior wood framing and a 5.5-meter-high steam clock at the entrance
  • Features a collection that spans antique orgel and Aeolian pipe organs alongside decorative glass, wood, metal and ceramic music boxes

What is so special about Otaru Music Box Museum for with kids?

  1. Free entry with no time limit lets kids wander safely
  2. Hourly 15-minute automata concerts thrill children with moving figures
  3. Hands-on workshop lets the whole family craft a keepsake
  4. Steam clock and glass displays offer unique photo opportunities

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Covers the main hall, Hall 2 concert and a DIY workshop at a relaxed pace for kids.

(View Otaru Music Box Museum on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Otaru Music Box Museum

Browse the Main Hall Collection:

See over 3,000 music boxes from around the world.

Tip: Let kids spot familiar shapes like Hello Kitty or sushi-themed boxes.

Watch the Antique Orgel Concert:

Enjoy a 15-minute automata and pipe organ show in Hall 2 every hour.

Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early to secure front-row seats for the kids.

DIY Music Box Workshop:

Decorate and assemble your own music box with choice of melody.

Tip: Choose a simple tune and easy decorations so younger children can join.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Otaru Music Box Museum

  1. Time your visit: Plan to arrive just before an hourly concert to catch it without delay.
  2. Tax-free shopping: Show passport when spending over ¥5,400 to save 8% on souvenirs.
🏖️ Tour Otaru Music Box Museum like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Otaru Music Box Museum. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Otaru Music Box Museum

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edtayjb

edtayjb

Jul 2025

This music box store or building along the Otaru Sakaimachi Shopping Street is highly popular with locals and tourists alike. It also houses, among other things, a mini museum on its upper floor where there are historical dioramas about the development of music boxes. So IMO its a worthwhile visit if you are ever in Otaru.

Ariel Cabrera Foix

Ariel Cabrera Foix

Jul 2025

We discovered this place by mere chance before our trip and we decided to visit it, this way we also discovered Otaru! The main building is beautiful outside, the inside too. Half store and half museum. The first floor is mainly a shop with hundreds of musical boxes, ranging from simple and funny to complex and delicate. There're many people here and it can be a little overwhelming, but once you ...

Isaac Sam

Isaac Sam

Jun 2025

The Otaru Music Box Museum is a charming and nostalgic gem nestled in the heart of Otaru’s historic district. Housed in a beautifully preserved early 20th-century building, the museum offers a delightful collection of intricate music boxes, antique timepieces, and handcrafted ornaments. The soft melodies playing throughout create a magical atmosphere, transporting visitors to a bygone era. The cr...

E T

E T

Apr 2025

The music box museum is free to visit on the 2nd floor, and is part of the toy store itself. I'm impressed by all the variety, types, and models of music boxes they have here. The displays in the museum show even more pricier, antiques of them too. It got busier in the late morning, but I got a chance to see it before. It's just a quick 10-min walk through. I highly recommend seeing the museum if ...

Dao Phalida

Dao Phalida

Apr 2025

This is definitely a place worth visiting. It’s a museum dedicated to music boxes with a long and fascinating history — something I had never known before. There are so many unique designs to explore, and it’s also a great spot to pick up special souvenirs. Just a small tip: walk carefully inside as there are many delicate items on display. If you’re carrying large bags or food, it’s a good idea ...

When is the best time to visit Otaru Music Box Museum (Sapporo, Japan)?

In winter, the warm indoor exhibits offer a break from cold and pair well with the Otaru Snow Light Path. In summer, enjoy the museum’s cool air on hot days.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Sapporo on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
DIY music box workshop (4 boxes)JPY 6,000
Child souvenir music box (2)JPY 3,000
Premium music box (Steam Clock model)JPY 4,104
Total EstimatedJPY 13,104

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 Otaru Music Box Museum

Address: 4-1 Sumiyoshichō, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0015, Japan

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Otaru Music Box Museum (Sapporo)?

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About Otaru Music Box Museum

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 134-22-1108

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