Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port

The Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port, often referred to as Otaru Port, is the main cruise ship terminal serving Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan. While Otaru is a separate city, it’s conveniently located about 40 km (25 miles) from Sapporo and is the preferred port for cruise ships visiting the region. The port is well-equipped to handle large cruise ships, including those up to 130,000 tons.

Overview of Sapporo-Otaru Port Cruise

Sapporo-Otaru, located on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, is a unique cruise destination combining the vibrant culture of Sapporo with the historic charm of the port city of Otaru. The Otaru Port acts as the cruise gateway to Sapporo, offering easy access to snow-capped mountains, glass-blowing studios, scenic canals, and traditional Japanese cuisine. It’s a popular stop for both regional and international cruises, especially during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.

Sapporo-Otaru Port Cruise’s overview is shown in the table below:

Field	Information
Location	Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan (gateway to Sapporo)
Coordinates	43.2014° N, 140.9947° E
Draft Depth	Approx. 12 meters
Harbor Type	Deep-water harbor
Vessel Arrivals	Frequent, seasonal (spring to fall, occasional winter)
Currency Used	Japanese Yen (JPY)
Language Spoken	Japanese (English signage available at major terminals)

What are the Port of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminals?

The main cruise terminal for Sapporo is actually located in Otaru Port, about 40km (25 miles) from Sapporo city. While some cruises might list Sapporo, they are likely referring to Otaru or sometimes Muroran Port. Otaru Port is a well-developed port with facilities to accommodate large cruise ships and is conveniently located near the city’s attractions.

The following are the Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port Terminals:

• • Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminal AA

• • Cruise Terminal A

• • Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminal B

• • Cruise Terminal C

• • Terminals D, E, as well as F

• • Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminal G

• • Cruise Terminal J

• • Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminal V

Which are the Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Lines?

Several cruise lines offer itineraries that include Sapporo (Otaru) as a port of call. Some of the prominent ones include Princess Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. The port of Otaru is the main cruise port for Sapporo, although some ships may also dock at Tomakomai Port, which is a bit further from Sapporo.

The following list contains Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Lines and other related information:

Cruise Line	Address	Contact Number
Princess Cruises	24305 Town Center Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91355, USA	+1 800-774-6237
Holland America Line	450 Third Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119, USA	+1 877-932-4259
Celebrity Cruises	1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, USA	+1 888-751-7804
MSC Cruises	6750 N. Andrews Ave, Suite 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309	+1 877-665-4655
Royal Caribbean	1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, USA	+1 866-562-7625
Norwegian Cruise Line	7665 Corporate Center Dr, Miami, FL 33126, USA	+1 866-234-7350

Does the Cruise Port in Sapporo-Otaru have Accessible Facilities?

While the cruise port in Sapporo-Otaru (specifically the Otaru port) is generally accessible by car, train, or bus, and is close to amenities in the city center, it is not explicitly listed as having extensive accessible facilities for those with mobility issues. Some sources indicate the port terminal itself has basic facilities, but shops and restaurants are readily available in the city center. In relation to the same, it provides facilities and activities for travelers with disabilities that are intended to make their trips safe and pleasurable.

In case of the requirement of the following, the agents can help:

• • Information in an accessible format

• • An ADA-related concern

• • Accommodation for a program or service

Additionally, Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port offers accessible parking for people with disabilities.

• • Throughout at Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port Terminals, TTY/TDD phones are available.

• • From here, callers who are deaf/hard of hearing can dial 711 to the Japan Shiribeshi Relay Service.

• • Along with these, at Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port, transit services and ground transportation are available for disabled persons.

Is There Parking Available at Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Ship Port?

Every Port of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Terminal has different parking options. These are available on the North, as well as South sides, of the port.

Sapporo-Otaru Port Parking at the South Side

• • Multi-Level Garage J

• • Multi-Level Garage K

Northside Sapporo-Otaru Port Parking

• • Multi-Level Garage AA

• • Multi-Level Garage B

• • Multi-Level Garage D

• • Surface Lot D

• • Multi-Level Garage G

• • Surface Lot E

• • Multi-Level Garage A

• • Multi-Level Garage C

• • Multi-Level Garage G

• • Multi-Level Garage G

How to Reach Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port?

There are various transportation options available to reach Sapporo-Otaru Port Cruise with ease. These include public transportation and private transit. Bus, Metrorail or metromover, and rail/train are some forms of public transportations. Further, rental cars, taxis, etc., are private transit available to reach Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port on time. In addition, shuttles and limos are accessible.

Note: For every transit, different rates and schedules are available.

How to Check the Port of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Schedule?

To check the most up-to-date Port of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise schedule, online and offline ways are available. With an offline way, a passenger can make a call to the specific cruise line for details. Further, to check schedules online, one needs to visit the official website of the particular cruise line. Here, different schedules are available with varying locations and costs. One can make the same reservation based on necessity and budget.

What is the Map of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port?

The configuration of the Port of Sapporo-Otaru is depicted visually in the map of Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port. It displays its buildings and terminals. Travelers can use this map to plan their cruise experience, find amenities, and navigate the port. Additionally, it highlights parking amenities, transit choices, and neighboring attractions. This can make it a vital tool for them to leave Sapporo-Otaru to take a cruise.

View All: Ports

Which Destinations are Served by Cruise Port in Sapporo-Otaru?

The Sapporo-Otaru cruise port serves as a gateway to various destinations, primarily within Hokkaido, Japan, and also offers access to other parts of the country through its proximity to Sapporo. This provides travelers with a blend of leisure, culture, and exploration.

Below are some destinations served by the Cruise Port in Sapporo-Otaru:

Destination	Description
Sapporo	Capital of Hokkaido known for snow festivals, ramen, and historic sites
Otaru	Port town with scenic canal, seafood markets, and glass workshops
Hakodate	Southern Hokkaido city with night views from Mt. Hakodate
Wakkanai	Northernmost city in Japan with arctic influence and coastal beauty
Aomori	Honshu city offering cultural sites and seasonal festivals
Kushiro	Coastal city known for wetlands and crane sanctuaries

How to Contact a Cruise Port in Sapporo-Otaru?

There are different ways available to contact a Sapporo-Otaru Port Cruise. Visiting the port is one of the straightforward ways. This way is more suitable for domestic customers. Further, telephone numbers, FAX, emailing, and other ways are available to connect to Cruise Port in Sapporo-Otaru. For disabled persons as well, specific contact numbers are accessible.

Port Authority	Contact Details
Otaru Port Authority (Otaru City Government)	2-1-1 Hanazono, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-8660, Japan
Phone	+81 134-32-4111
Fax Number	+81 134-33-3933
Email	kouwan@city.otaru.lg.jp
Website	www.city.otaru.lg.jp
Emergency Contact (if available)	Japan Coast Guard (Otaru): +81 134-25-0118
TTY (for Disabled Persons)	Available via Japan National Relay Service

In Sum,

One of the main entry points for cruise travel is Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port. Sometimes referred to as PortSapporo-Otaru provides convenient access to the Caribbean as well as cutting-edge terminals. It is among the busiest and most well-liked cruises in the globe because of its ideal locations, contemporary amenities, and effective operations. This can give passengers a smooth and thrilling beginning to their trips.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sapporo-Otaru Cruise Port