Otaru is one of Hokkaido’s most beloved travel destinations, famous for its fresh seafood and the romantic Otaru Canal. If you’re visiting this charming port town, we highly recommend trying a hands-on glassmaking experience to make your trip even more memorable.
Known as the “City of Glass,” Otaru flourished as a harbor during the Meiji and Taisho eras. Local glassmaking originally began with oil lamps, and today the tradition continues with beautifully crafted tableware, accessories, and interior decorations.
So why not take part in a glassmaking workshop and create your own one-of-a-kind keepsake from Otaru?
As a couple who relocated from Honshu to Hokkaido because we fell in love with the region, we’d like to share our favorite glassmaking spots in Otaru, along with how the workshops work and what to expect in terms of pricing.
The Charm of Otaru’s Glassmaking Experience
Create a One-of-a-Kind Souvenir
Try glassblowing or sandblasting to make your very own cup, vase, or plate. Your finished piece will be a unique reminder of your trip—or even a perfect gift.
Beginner-Friendly
Skilled artisans provide step-by-step guidance, so even children or complete beginners can enjoy the process with confidence. Most activities are simple and safe, with the staff handling the tricky parts.
Great for Couples & Families
Couples can make matching glasses, while families can take home a child’s handmade work as a special memory. It’s a wonderful way to “shape” your trip into something tangible.
It’s lovely to be able to look at your glass creation at home and be reminded of your Hokkaido trip.
Popular Glassmaking Spots in Otaru
1. Kitaichi Glass No.3 Hall
-
Activities: Glassblowing (cups, vases), sandblasting
-
Price Range: ¥3,500–4,500
-
Highlights: Historic building, one-on-one guidance, some items can be taken home the same day.
-
Best For: Visitors who want to enjoy both shopping and hands-on experiences in one place.
2. Otaru Glass Studio Kirara
-
Activities: Fusing (layering colorful glass pieces), bead-making
-
Price Range: ¥2,000–3,500
-
Highlights: Fun design process with lots of color options; create practical items like chopstick rests or jewelry.
-
Best For: Girls’ trips and couples looking for stylish creations.
3. Taisho Glass Museum & Studio
-
Activities: Glassblowing, sandblasting, bead-making
-
Price Range: ¥2,000–4,500
-
Highlights: Retro Meiji/Taisho-era building; large gallery shop with hundreds of items.
-
Best For: Families; kid-friendly programs available.
4. Glass Studio in Otaru
-
Activities: Glassblowing
-
Price Range: ¥3,000–4,000
-
Highlights: Modern, spacious studio with high ceilings and large windows; English support available.
-
Best For: First-timers who want a professional, immersive experience.
5. Kitaichi Glass Bead Studio
-
Activities: Bead-making (necklaces, straps)
-
Price Range: ¥1,500–2,500
-
Highlights: Quick 30-minute sessions; child-friendly.
-
Best For: Families or those short on time.
6. Otaru Music Box Museum Workshop
-
Activities: Decorating music box cases with glasswork
-
Price Range: ¥2,000–3,000
-
Highlights: Located inside the famous Otaru Music Box Museum, combining sightseeing and hands-on crafting.
-
Best For: Couples and families; cute designs especially popular with women.
How the Glassmaking Process Works (Typical Flow)
Check-in & Orientation
Pay the fee, choose what to make, and receive easy-to-follow instructions from staff.
Design & Color Selection
Pick your favorite colors and patterns—there are endless combinations to spark creativity.
Crafting
-
-
Glassblowing: Blow into molten glass to shape your piece.
-
Sandblasting: Create designs by etching patterns into the surface.
-
Fusing: Arrange small glass pieces and fire them in a kiln.
-
Finishing & Cooling
Some items can be collected the same day, while others (like blown glass) may need to cool and will be delivered later.
Receive Your Work
Taking home your handmade glass is always an unforgettable moment!
Price Guide
-
Glassblowing: ¥3,000–4,500
-
Sandblasting: ¥2,000–3,000
-
Bead-Making: ¥1,500–2,500
-
Fusing: ¥2,000–3,500
🕒 Most workshops last 30–60 minutes, making them easy to fit into a sightseeing schedule. Shipping may cost an additional ¥500–1,000 if your piece requires later delivery.
Sample Itinerary with Glassmaking
-
Morning: Stroll along Otaru Canal → Glassblowing at Kitaichi Glass
-
Afternoon: Visit the Music Box Museum & enjoy sweets (LeTAO, etc.) → Evening canal light-up
Final Thoughts
Glassmaking in Otaru combines sightseeing with hands-on creativity, making it a must-try experience. Whether with family, friends, or a loved one, it’s the perfect way to create lasting memories—and a tangible souvenir of your trip.
When you visit Otaru, be sure to add a glassmaking workshop to your itinerary!
✨ At Samurai Trip Concierge, we’re here to make your Hokkaido trip more enjoyable, more comfortable, and truly unforgettable. If you have any questions about traveling in Hokkaido or glassmaking in Otaru, feel free to reach out—we’d love to help!
