Explore the Forest of Asari
The Asarigawa area is a treasure trove of nature year round. Gazing at the wildflowers alongside the river and strolling leisurely through the woods are just some of the charms of staying at Asarigawa Onsen. It is a delight for all five senses, with the cool atmosphere of the Asari River in summer, the trout swimming upstream in autumn, and the delicious flavors of the fruits of the forest.
Summer in Asari,
where refreshing blue skies,
abundant greenery,
and pure water await
Asarigawa is one of the most exhilarating summer retreats in all of Hokkaido. Try waking up a bit early to enjoy a stroll along the river. The birdsong and chirping insects are a truly beautiful, purifying sound. If you’re looking for a bit of an unusual souvenir from Otaru, why not visit some spots recommended by the hotel staff?
abundant greenery, and pure water await
At the wine shop here, you’ll find over 100 kinds of home made wine, snacks, and more. In addition to the tasting counter, a winery tour is also available, with staff explaining the process from grape cultivation to winemaking.
- Hokkaido Wine Co., Ltd.
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 1-chome 130 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-34-2187(Direct line to Otaru Wine Gallery)
Glass Blowing
At Asarigawa glass studios you can try glass blowing, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Otaru. Even complete beginners can enjoy this activity thanks to detailed instructions from staff. A one-of-a-kind drinking glass or mug makes the perfect souvenir of a heartwarming trip to Asarigawa Onsen.
- STUDIO J-45 Glass Blowing Workshop
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 2-chome 692-24 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-54-5004
Sasson Golf Club
This large course overlooks the Sea of Japan, offering superb scenery and excellent golfing. Located amongst the hills of the Asari Onsen hot spring town, Sasson Golf Club was designed by master Japanese golf course designer Osamu Ueda, and is famous for its dynamic layout that makes ingenious use of rolling hills amongst quiet scenery.
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 1-chome 504 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-54-5511
Asari Dam Memorial Hall
Asari Dam Memorial Hall is located next to Asari Dam (Otarunai Lake), deep in Asarigawa Onsen Gorge. There are various displays here including a model of the dam, information panels that introduce its construction, and panels that show information on the waterworks facilities in Otaru. Nearby there are lakeside gardens where families can enjoy a stroll and brilliant mountain foliage in autumn.
- Open: Late April – early November
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 2-580 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-52-0241
- Hours/10:00〜16:00
Winter in Asari, where you can
play to your heart’s content,
covered in beautiful powdery snow
Winter in Asarigawa envelops the world in white, like an impressionist painting. Bundle up in warm clothing and head out into that picture-perfect scenery. There are plenty of winter activities to enjoy here, including the unique powdery snow of Hokkaido. Come enjoy Asarigawa Onsen to the full, and make memories of winter that will last a lifetime.
Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort
This resort boasts dynamic panoramic views of the Sea of Japan. When viewed from the lift or the summit, the sky and sea appear to merge into one amazing sight. The beautifully manicured slopes offer nearly 3,000 m of long run skiing. A wide selection of courses are available, allowing visitors of all levels to have fun, from experts to beginners and children.
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 1-chome 394 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-54-0101
Snowshoeing
Experience the nature of Asarigawa Onsen in the winter by donning some snowshoes and enjoying a walk through the endless snowy landscape. You can see the footprints of rare creatures, experience the silence of the woods in winter, and dive into deep drifts of snow. This is an activity that is fun for visitors of all ages.
- Winkel Village
- Address/Asarigawa Onsen 2-chome 686 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-52-1185
Blue Canal
The Blue Canal can only be seen from November to January when the Otaru Canal is lit with nearly 10,000 LEDs. Lasting from sunset to 10:30 p.m., the lights coupled with the sky create a wonderful, dreamlike atmosphere.
- Address/Otaru Canal Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-33-2510(Otaru Tourism Association)
Memorable, delicious flavors of
your trip await you in Asari
Popular new restaurants and eateries are popping up all the time in Asarigawa Onsen. Enjoy a leisurely visit while staying at the hotel, or stop by a place that catches your eye while out for a stroll: you’re sure to find something delicious in Asari. Hotel staff are always happy to recommend a place worth visiting.
Masaru Village (Izayaka Masarumura)
Izakaya Masarumura is a Japanese-style pub located in Asarigawa Onsen. They offer a varied menu including sushi and sashimi made with fresh seafood, popular izakaya dishes, Genghis Khan barbecue, and ramen. The bright pub and view of the trees from the window makes for a comfy dining experience.
- Address/ Asarigawa Onsen 1-chome 778-1 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-64-6141
- Hours/17:00~22:00(LO21:00)
- Regular holiday/Monday
- About 7 minutes on foot from the hotel
Maru Tani Seipan (Bakery)
Maru Tani Seipan is a popular bakery that has relocated nearby Asarigawa Onsen. Don’t miss their buttery, flaky croissants made with Hokkaido wheat. Popular items sell out in the morning, so make sure to stop by early!
- Address/ Asarigawa Onsen 2-chome 692-30 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-55-5813
- Hours/10:00~17:00
- Regular holiday/Tuesday, Wednesday
- About 6 minutes on foot from the hotel
Hi Bread!
This adorable little bakery is nestled in a corner of the hot spring town. Using only select ingredients from Hokkaido, the staff lets the dough rise over a long period of time at low temperatures, then flash freezes fresh baked bread to preserve its flavor. After letting the bread thaw, toast it for one and a half minutes for fresh-baked goodness. At the factory direct store, you can enjoy fresh bread and coffee ground on the spot at the terrace seats surrounded by nature.
- Address/ Asarigawa Onsen 2-chome 692-25 Otaru
- Inquiries/080-6889-7408
- Hours/11:00~17:00
- Regular holiday/Tuesday
- About 5 minutes on foot from the hotel
Toys Sweet
This cake shop is run by chef Shuhei Kanno, who has worked at famous hotels and restaurants. He opened this bakery in his hometown of Otaru in 1992. Ever since then, he has used milk from Yamanaka Dairy Farm, Tokachi cream, French chocolate, and other carefully selected ingredients to craft a variety of tasty treats.
- Address/ Asarigawa Onsen 1-chome 306-36 Otaru
- Inquiries/0134-54-0501
- Hours/(Cake shop)9:30~19:00、(Restaurant)11:30~14:00
- Regular holiday/(Cake shop)Wednesday、(Restaurant)Wednesday, Thursday
- About 17 minutes on foot from the hotel
Nearby snow activities
Close to the hotel are ski resorts offering the best Hokkaido snow. A variety of courses ensure an enjoyable visit for all skill levels. Hit the Hokkaido slopes and get your fill of winter fun!
Kiroro Snow World
Located about 30 minutes from the hotel by car, Kiroro Snow World boasts the best powder snow and snow coverage. Surrounded by two mountains, the slopes offer fun trails for skiers of all levels. Even if you don’t ski, there’s plenty of fun to be had at Snow Activity World, where you can play in the snow and try snow rafting.
- Address/Tokiwa 128-1 Akaigawa-mura
- Inquiries/0135-34-7171
- About 30 minutes by car from the hotel
- No shuttle or route buses
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Situated about 20 minutes from the hotel by car, this resort boasts amazing powder snow on wide open slopes. There are seven courses that cater to all levels, from beginners to experts, and a variety of items for playing in the snow, making this a great destination for all. The rental corner has everything you could want, so there’s no need to bring any gear, and the restaurant serves great meals.
- Address/Jozankei 937 Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Inquiries/011-598-4511
- About 20 minutes by car from the hotel
- No shuttle or route buses
Otaru is home to charming, picturesque
spots you’ll want to visit again and again
Otaru, known as one of the leading sightseeing spots in Hokkaido, is enveloped in a nostalgic atmosphere. Many come to see highlights such as the Otaru Canal, which is the symbol of the city, and the retro buildings and warehouses dotting the town. Read on for more information about famous Otaru sightseeing spots you shouldn’t miss out on while enjoying a relaxing stay at Asari Classe Hotel.
Otaru Canal
The entire picturesque canal is practically synonymous with Otaru.
- Access/About 20 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
This ropeway leads to an observation deck that overlooks all of Otaru.
- Access/About 22 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel
Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street
The main street for classy, retro sightseeing spots.
- Access/About 20 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel
Otaru Aquarium
This fun aquarium features penguins and a South American sea lion show.
- Access/About 30 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel
Sumiyoshi Shrine
Built in 1868, this shrine has watched over Otaru as it flourished in the maritime trade.
- Access/About 15 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel
Former Japanese National Railways Temiya Line
This is a popular photo spot where you can walk on the tracks.
- Access/About 20 minutes by car from Asari Classe Hotel