Otaru is a port city located in the Shiribeshi Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. Situated northwest of Sapporo, the city faces Ishikari Bay and the Sea of Japan. It has historically served as the primary port for the bay area.
The city is a popular tourist destination known for its numerous historical buildings. Due to its proximity to Sapporo, which is approximately a 25-minute drive away, Otaru has also developed into a commuter town. As of July 31, 2023, the city had an estimated population of 107,432 and a total area of 243.83 km2.
While Otaru is the largest city within the Shiribeshi Subprefecture, the administrative capital of the subprefecture is located in the more centrally situated town of Kutchan.