小樽市 北海道 Otaru Hokkaido JAPAN

Otaru 小樽市 is a city and port in Shiribeshi, Hokkaido, Japan, northwest of Sapporo. The city faces the Ishikari Bay, and has long served as the main port of the bay. The city was an Ainu habitation, and the name “Otaru” is recognised as being of Ainu origin, possibly meaning “River running through the sandy beach”. In 1880 the first railway line in Hokkaido was opened with daily service between Otaru and Sapporo.
The coastal area in the suburb of Otaru belongs to Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru-Beach Quasi-National Park and beauty spots, including the cliffs at Omotai and Takashima Misaki Cape attract many visitors.
Mount Kenashi Observatory is the Top spot for a spectacular view of Otaru to Ishikari bay.
At an altitude of 470 meters, the observatory offers a breathtaking, panoramic view of the streets of Otaru, Otaru port and Ishikari Bay. Each season promises a spectacular view.