Otaru | Sunset Sake Cruise on a Traditional Houseboat – Discover Japanese Sake with Carefully Selected Bottles from Across Japan
Itinerary Details
A One-of-a-Kind Sake Experience on the Water
Step aboard the traditional houseboat “Kayou” and set sail from Otaru Port beneath the warm glow of red lanterns. With sake selections curated by Takano, one of Otaru’s renowned sake shops, discover the diverse world of Japanese sake—from delicate and fruity varieties to rich and dry styles. An expert guide will introduce you to the unique character of each sake, helping you discover new favorites along the way.
Where the Sea Meets the Flavors of Japan
Enjoy a leisurely two-hour cruise while tasting a selection of carefully chosen Japanese sake, accompanied by the owner’s homemade specialties. As the sun casts a golden glow across Otaru Port, watch the city gradually light up and admire the illuminated Otaru Canal from the water. It’s a relaxed and memorable way to experience a summer evening in Hokkaido.
Itinerary
Welcome Aboard & An Introduction to Japanese Sake
Check-in & Welcome at the Boarding Area
Meet at the boarding area near the central bridge. Your sake glass will be prepared for you, and the guide will provide a brief introduction to the evening’s itinerary and safety guidelines before boarding.
Cast Off & First Sake Tasting
Step aboard the traditional houseboat and slowly cruise into Otaru Port. Begin your tasting with a refreshing selection of sake, including lightly sparkling and fruity varieties, setting the tone for a relaxed evening on the water.
An Evening of Sake, Local Flavors & Otaru Harbor Views
Homemade Specialties & A Second Sake Tasting
As night falls, enjoy the owner’s homemade specialties and carefully selected local delicacies alongside a second round of sake. Discover richer and more complex flavors, including aromatic, crisp, and full-bodied varieties, and experience how the character of each sake changes when paired with food.
Sake, Conversation & Nighttime Harbor Views
Relax on the houseboat, enjoy your favorite sake, and exchange recommendations and stories with fellow guests. Take photos against the shimmering lights of Otaru Harbor and soak up the atmosphere of the city from the water.
Return to the Harbor & Farewell
Disembark at Otaru Port
Return to the dock and disembark at the end of the cruise.
Depending on the applicable regulations, any unopened or resealed bottles may be taken with you to enjoy later.
Continue the Evening in Otaru
With a warm and relaxed buzz from the evening’s sake tasting, take a leisurely stroll back toward the Otaru Canal and continue enjoying the romantic atmosphere of the city at night.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Important
Information &
Cancellation Policy
Important Notes
- Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited. Please do not drive after participating in this sake tasting experience.
- For your safety, please wear comfortable, flat-soled shoes.
- In the event that the cruise cannot depart due to severe weather or sea conditions, the experience may be moved to an indoor location or handled according to the arrangements made by the operator.
- For details regarding changes, cancellations, and refunds due to weather or other circumstances, please refer to the official booking terms and conditions.
Cancellation Policy
- 14–8 days before departure: 30% of the tour price
- 7–2 days before departure: 50% of the tour price
- 1 day before departure or on the day of departure: 100% of the tour price
