Otaru "Blue Canal" Illumination 2026-2027

A winter tradition in which the Otaru Canal glows with around 10,000 blue LED lights. From Sunday, November 1, 2026 to Sunday, January 31, 2027, the stretch from Asakusa Bridge to Chuo Bridge is lit from sunset until 10:30pm. Blue-lit canal night cruises are also popular. About 90 minutes by car from Niseko — a great outing for late autumn and early winter. Dates and times may change; check the Otaru Tourism Association before visiting.