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Sankaku Market: Otaru's Seafood Hub

Experience Otaru's vibrant seafood scene at Sankaku Market, a culinary gem steps from the train station. Fresh catches & local flavors await!

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Sankaku Market, a compact and bustling seafood market next to Otaru Station, offers a vibrant taste of Hokkaido's culinary scene. Known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, it's a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Japanese market experience.

A brief summary to Sankaku Market

  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) for the freshest seafood selection and to avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Try a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) at one of the market's restaurants for a taste of local flavors.
  • Bargain with vendors for potential discounts, especially when purchasing larger quantities of seafood.
  • If you plan to drive, consider parking in the Sankaku Market Public Car Park. Spending over ¥2,000 at the market may get you a free hour of parking.
  • Check the opening hours of individual stores, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Sankaku Market is conveniently located a short walk from Otaru Station. Upon exiting the station, take the stairs to the left. The market entrance will be directly in front of you. The walk is less than 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Sapporo Station, take the JR Hakodate Main Line to Otaru Station. Rapid trains take about 30 minutes and cost ¥800. Local trains take about 45 minutes for the same price. From Otaru Station, follow the walking directions above. Alternatively, take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus or JR Hokkaido Bus from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station. The bus takes about 1 hour and costs ¥730. From Otaru Station, follow the walking directions above.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Otaru city center, a taxi to Sankaku Market is a convenient option. Most taxi rides within the city center should cost between ¥950 and ¥1200. Ask the driver to take you to 'Sankaku Ichiba' next to Otaru Station.

  • Driving

    From Sapporo, take the Sasson Expressway to the Otaru IC. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, and the expressway toll is ¥810. From Otaru IC, it's about a 15-minute drive to Sankaku Market. Parking is available at the Sankaku Market Public Car Park, located behind the market and next to the JR station. Parking costs ¥120 per 30 minutes. Spending over ¥2,000 at the market may get you a free hour of parking.

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Discover more about Sankaku Market

Sankaku Market (三角市場, Sankaku Ichiba), meaning 'Triangle Market,' derives its name from its triangular roof and layout. Established in 1948, it evolved from a post-war morning market and has become one of Otaru's most famous and oldest markets. Located just a short walk from JR Otaru Station, the market is a narrow corridor, only 200 meters long, packed with about 15 stores. These shops offer a wide array of fresh seafood, including crab, salmon, sea urchin, and other local delicacies, alongside farm products. Many shops also sell salted and dried seafood, perfect for souvenirs. Beyond shopping, Sankaku Market is a culinary destination. Several restaurants operate within the market, many run directly by fishmongers, offering incredibly fresh seafood bowls (kaisendon), grilled fish, and set meals. Popular eateries include Takinami Shokudo and Ajidokoro Takeda, known for their delicious and reasonably priced seafood. The market's lively atmosphere, with vendors calling out and offering samples, adds to the experience. It's a place where locals and tourists alike can savor the flavors of Hokkaido and experience the vibrant culture of Otaru.

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