Discover the Enchantment of Blue Cave in Otaru
Explore the mesmerizing Blue Cave in Otaru, Hokkaido, where stunning azure waters and breathtaking rock formations await your discovery.
Blue Cave, a stunning natural wonder in Otaru, Hokkaido, captivates visitors with its mesmerizing blue waters and breathtaking rock formations. Perfect for a scenic boat tour, this enchanting attraction offers a unique glimpse into the beauty of Japan's coastal landscape, making it a must-visit for any tourist.
A brief summary to Blue Cave
- 1 Chome Shioya, Otaru, 1 Chome Shioya, Hokkaido, 048-2672, JP
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- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you might need to walk a short distance to reach the boat launch point.
- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning views inside the cave.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as clear skies enhance the cave's brilliant colors.
- Consider combining your visit to Blue Cave with a stroll along Otaru's famous canal for a full day of sightseeing.
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Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Blue Cave, start by getting onto the Hokkaido Expressway (Route 5) from your location in Hokkaido. Follow the signs for Otaru and continue until you reach Exit 6, Otaru. Merge onto Route 5 and follow it into the city. Once you enter Otaru, follow Route 5 towards Shioya. The Blue Cave is located at 1 Chome Shioya, and there are parking areas available nearby. Note that parking fees may apply, typically around 500 yen.
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Public Transportation - Train
To reach Blue Cave via public transport, take a train from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station using the JR Hakodate Line. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes and costs approximately 640 yen. Once you arrive at Otaru Station, exit the station and head to the bus terminal adjacent to it. Take the Otaru City Bus (Shioya Line) towards Shioya. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around 370 yen. Get off at the 'Shioya' stop, and from there, it's a short walk to Blue Cave.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Another option is to take a direct bus from Sapporo to Otaru. Buses leave from the Sapporo Bus Terminal and take about 1 hour to reach Otaru, costing around 1,200 yen. Upon arriving at Otaru, you can follow the same instructions as above to take the Otaru City Bus to Shioya. Make sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time, as they can vary.
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