Otaru, JAPAN
Airing Date: Jun 21st, 2004
Otaru is a small city of 150,000 people situated in the western part of Japan's northern island, Hokkaido. It's a far cry from the neon lights and technology driven culture of Tokyo and Osaka. This is the place where the Japanese come for their local holidays to experience the gentle, quaint and peaceful rural culture of their country.
The Japanese call Otaru the 'Venice of Japan'. It's a tenuous comparison, but there are certain similarities the locals like to play up. For a start, Otaru has a lovely canal running through its centre, testament to its heritage as a thriving sea port. When sunset falls, lamps light up along the canal creating a warmly romantic atmosphere.
Other comparisons to Venice are the ornate masks sold throughout Otaru with a carnivale theme, and like Venice, there are a large number of glassblowers throughout the city. For around $11, you can have a shot at glassblowing yourself in a ten minute lesson.
The other main industry of Otaru is fishing. The city is particularly famous for its herrings. In days gone by, the fishermen were the richest people in Otaru. They lived in huge mansions called 'Nishen-goten', meaning 'many herrings'. To this day, the local specialty of Otaru is herring on a stick, which can be found all throughout the city.
Although fishing is still big business in Otaru, tourism is the main growth industry. One of the main attractions of the town is Shakotan Cape, a rock formation just off the coast.
Legend has it that the female god who created this part of the coastline was talking too much and didn't finish it off properly, which is why it is separated from the mainland.
The facts
Japan Airlines flies to Sapporo with connections in Tokyo. Prices start from $1610 from Sydney and $1599 from Brisbane.
Japanese Airlines
Reservations
Sydney - 02 9272-1111
Melbourne - 03 8662-8333
Brisbane - 07 3229-9916
Adelaide - 08 8212-2555
Accommodation at the very modern Hilton Hotel starts from $205 for a standard room and $300 for a deluxe room.
Hilton Hotel Otaru
Tel: 1800 222 255
Prices correct at 21/06/04
