Otaru, Hokkaido

Otaru is a must visit when in Sapporo. But it was not because of the Otaru Canal and its surroundings, it’s because of Temiya Park.

Temiya Park is the fourth oldest existing urban park in Hokkaido located on a hill with a beautiful ocean view. There are around 700 cherry trees of different varieties in the park that makes cherry blossom viewing so beautiful. I love how this park shows off different layers of beauty. From the light blue sky, to the snow capped mountains, to the brilliant blue ocean, to the emerald grass, to the pretty shades of pink… It was such a divine view! Here I’ve also experienced the Cherry Blossom snowstorm that gives a very warm feeling of Spring. I was so happy to get to see all of this!

It only took just over an hour to reach Otaru from Sapporo by bus. It is also a must to try the local snacks, like Hokkaido ice-cream, steam buns and Hokkaido sweet potatoes covered in rich butter. Don’t miss them before heading back to Sapporo.