Immersive Local Stay in Otaru, Hokkaido 6 days

Recommended Program

Medieval Otaru: A Journey Through the Opulent Legacy of the Herring Trade

From the Edo period through to the early Showa era, the Shakotan Peninsula flourished as one of Hokkaido’s premier herring fishing grounds, dotted with numerous fishing outposts that created a vibrant maritime community. The herring harvested from these bountiful waters were transported via Kitamae trading vessels to distant markets in Wakasa, Osaka, and the imperial capital of Kyoto, generating extraordinary wealth for the region. While the herring fishing industry declined precipitously after the Showa period, the magnificent herring mansions—known as Nishin Goten—still stand as elegant testimonies to this golden age, scattered throughout the Shakotan region. We invite our distinguished guests to experience this remarkable heritage through visits to the historic Fukuhara fishing grounds in Yoichi and the impressive Nishin Goten Tomari in Tomari Village, which ranks among Hokkaido’s most splendid examples of these mercantile estates.

Modern Otaru: The Art Village – A Cultural Renaissance in Early 20th Century Architecture

From the Meiji period onwards, Otaru flourished as Hokkaido’s maritime gateway, and through to the early Showa era, the establishment of financial institutions, shipping companies, and trading houses transformed this port city into a pivotal economic centre that laid the foundation for Hokkaido’s development. Today, the Otaru Art Village stands as a testament to this prosperous era, masterfully repurposing five magnificent buildings constructed during Otaru’s golden age at the dawn of the 20th century: the former Arata Trading Company, the historic Takahashi Warehouse, the erstwhile Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, and the distinguished Naniwaya Warehouse. This architectural ensemble now houses the prestigious Nitori Group’s art collection, creating a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and contemporary cultural significance.

Suburban Excursion I: A Grand Tour of the Shakotan Peninsula – Hokkaido’s Premier Scenic Wonder

Majestically jutting into the Sea of Japan, the Shakotan Peninsula stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur, boasting the distinction of housing Hokkaido’s sole designated marine park—an esteemed Hokkaido Heritage site. We invite our distinguished guests to embark on an exclusive journey around this magnificent peninsula, where you’ll experience the legendary “Shakotan Blue” waters—renowned for their crystalline beauty—from the comfort of a sophisticated underwater observatory vessel, followed by a luxurious driving tour that winds through the peninsula’s most spectacular vantage points.

Suburban Excursion II: The Prestigious Niki Hills Winery – A Rising Star in Global Wine Excellence

Perched elegantly atop a gentle hill and embraced by meticulously tended vineyards, the distinguished Niki Hills Winery—garnering increasing acclaim through prestigious awards at both domestic and international wine competitions—invites connoisseurs to discover Japan’s burgeoning wine heritage, where traditional Japanese precision meets contemporary vinification excellence in a setting of unparalleled natural splendour.