From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sankaku Market.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
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!
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Sankaku Market
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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.
Explore places near Sankaku Market
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.
A brief summary to Sankaku Market
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