The North Canal Night Market, “Yummy,” was launched in 2023 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canal’s opening and to revitalize Otaru’s nighttime economy. Now in its third year, the event is growing in size and popularity. In 2024, it recorded approximately 68,000 visitors, and organizers aim to exceed 80,000 this year.

The night market is run by the local management council, “Otaru Next 100,” in collaboration with the city of Otaru and local businesses. The word “Yummy” translates to “delicious” in English, and organizers are expressing this playful nuance through colorful signage and social media hashtags.

Dates, Times, and Locations

The 2025 market will be held for 10 days, from Saturday, September 13th to Monday, September 22nd, during Japan’s Silver Week.

Stalls are open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, opening earlier at 4:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

Entry to the market and most activities are free, but some optional experiences (lanterns, postcards, food) incur fees. The market stretches from Chuo Bridge along the Otaru Canal, passing through Ryugu Bridge, the former Hokkai Seikan Third Warehouse, and the Canal Promenade, all the way to Kitahama Bridge.

Toward 2025, organizers are expanding the market northward, adding an additional 600 meters of promenade, including the “Hitoyori-michi ~Musubi-no-Hashi~” promenade.
… Food and Shopping: 30 Food Stalls Featuring the Flavors of Hokkaido

The centerpiece of Yummy Night Market is the food and craft stalls. Approximately 30 stalls from Otaru, neighboring Shakotan, and Sapporo line the canal.

Many stalls boast Hokkaido seafood, such as scallops (yaki scallops), squid, and salmon skewers. The ubiquitous lamb barbecue known as Jingisukan is also popular.

Other stalls offer craft beer, sake, and fruity cocktails, perfect for strolling around. Families and children will love crepes, taiyaki, gelato, and grilled corn on the cob.

In addition to food, there are also stalls selling artisan-made accessories, glassware, and traditional crafts. Otaru is famous for its glass industry, so you can find original glass pendants, cups, wind chimes, and more. Visitors from Shakotan and Sapporo often return home with souvenirs like knitted scarves, leather wallets, and wooden toys. Payment can be made by cash or major payment apps. However, some smaller stalls may not accept credit cards, so we recommend bringing yen bills.

Lights, Tunnels, and the New “Bond Bridge” Area

One of the reasons for Yummy Market’s magical atmosphere is its meticulous lighting design. Organizers have installed 10,000 lights along the canal, with spotlights placed every 7 meters casting a soft glow on the bridge and walkway.

Laser beams add color to the dark water, and many stalls hang lanterns and light bulbs, creating a warm glow reflected on the canal. The newly opened “Hitoyori Michi ~ Musubi no Hashi” zone features a tunnel of lanterns. Exiting the tunnel leads to a space resembling a small shrine. For 300 yen, you can write your wish on a “marriage ema” (votive plaque) and hang it.

This area symbolizes connection and is a romantic photo spot for couples and friends.

Special Events and Interactive Experiences

In addition to strolling, dining, and drinking, you can also participate in a variety of interactive activities.

If you’re looking to relax after a day at Yummy Market, head back to Susukino and come visit us for an incall. THC Sapporo offers a memorable experience that rivals Otaru. Come experience our escort service in Sapporo!