How to Get from Otaru to Shiroi Koibito Park
So, you’re planning a trip from Otaru to Shiroi Koibito Park? Let me tell you, this little adventure is worth every minute! I did this journey myself last summer, and it
was such a fun mix of scenic views, train rides, and, of course, chocolate. Yes, chocolate—because Shiroi Koibito Park is basically a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Let me walk you through how I got there, with all the little quirks and surprises along the way.
By Train
I started my day at Otaru Station, which, by the way, is such a charming little station with its old-school vibe. I grabbed a quick coffee and a melon pan (because why not?) and hopped on the JR Hakodate Line towards Sapporo. The train ride was smooth, and the views of Hokkaido’s countryside were so peaceful—rolling hills, tiny farms, and the occasional glimpse of the ocean. I may or may not have dozed off for a few minutes (oops!). Once I got to Sapporo Station, I transferred to the Tozai Subway Line. Now, here’s where I made a tiny mistake—I got so excited about the subway map that I almost missed my stop at Miyanosawa Station. Thankfully, a kind local noticed my confused face and pointed me in the right direction. From Miyanosawa, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the park. The walk itself is lovely, with cute little shops and bakeries along the way. I may have stopped for a cream puff… or two. Don’t judge me!
By Car
If you’re driving, the route is pretty straightforward. Take the Hokkaido Expressway from Otaru towards Sapporo, and exit at the Miyanosawa Interchange. The drive takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. I didn’t drive myself, but my friend did, and she said it was a breeze. Just make sure you have a good playlist or podcast ready—it’s a great time to jam out or catch up on your favorite shows.
By Bus
For those who prefer buses, there are services from Otaru to Sapporo. Once you arrive at Sapporo Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to Shiroi Koibito Park. The whole journey takes about an hour. I didn’t take the bus myself, but I heard it’s a comfortable option, especially if you want to sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about transfers.
Additional Tips
Here’s a pro tip: check the train and bus schedules in advance. I made the mistake of assuming trains would run every 10 minutes, but nope—I ended up waiting 20 minutes for my connection. Not the end of the world, but it’s always good to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons. Oh, and if you’re a chocolate fan like me, leave some extra time at the park. I spent way too long in the gift shop, sampling every flavor of Shiroi Koibito cookies. No regrets, though!
Final Thoughts
Getting from Otaru to Shiroi Koibito Park is such a fun little journey, whether you’re taking the train, driving, or hopping on a bus. The park itself is magical—it’s like stepping into a chocolate-themed fairy tale. And the best part? You get to indulge in all the sweet treats guilt-free because, hey, you’re on vacation! Have you been to Shiroi Koibito Park? Or do you have any tips for traveling around Hokkaido? Share your stories in the comments—I’d love to hear about your adventures! And if you’re planning your trip, feel free to ask me anything. I’m always happy to help a fellow traveler! 🍫✨
