[2025 Edition] Complete Guide to Coin Lockers & Luggage Storage Near Otaru Station (Winter) [Within a 5-Minute Walk / Watch Your Step on Snowy Roads]

In winter (around December through March), there are days in Otaru when sidewalks are in poor condition due to snow and ice, and getting around with a rolling suitcase can be far more difficult than you might expect. In addition, depending on the snowfall and the time of day, it can also be hard to find a taxi. That’s why winter sightseeing in Otaru is safest and most efficient when you store your luggage first upon arrival and move around as lightly as possible.

In this article, we organize the coin lockers and luggage storage options around Otaru Station that you can use within a 5-minute walk, including winter-friendly factors such as indoor access and proximity.

Conclusion: Coin Lockers & Luggage Storage Near Otaru Station (Fastest Winter Route)

Around Otaru Station in winter, the easiest approach is to follow this order from the closest options:

• Otaru Station “Inside-the-station lockers” (check here first)

• “Bus terminal lockers” in front of the station (check next)

• “KitariN” near the station (when lockers are difficult / for large luggage)

* Note: There are currently no lockers in the “JR bus waiting room.” Be careful not to confuse this with outdated information.

1. Coin Lockers at Otaru Station (In Winter, “Indoor First”)

Lockers inside Otaru Station

These lockers are grouped near the ticket gates, and the biggest winter advantage is that everything can be done indoors.

They range from small to large, including lockers that can handle everything from backpacks to suitcases (however, large lockers tend to fill up quickly).

Payment methods (cash / transportation IC cards, etc.) vary by machine, so please check the on-site instructions.

Lockers at the station-front bus terminal

This is the next option when the station lockers are full.

These also come in small to large sizes and are very useful for day trips.

The walk is short, but on heavy snow days, watch your step when moving between locations.

2. If You Want to Store a Boston Bag / Suitcase (Winter Mindset)

In winter, bulky clothing makes luggage larger and more likely to exceed locker capacity.

• Boston bags: Often fit in medium lockers, but winter packing can make them tight—plan with extra space in mind.

• Suitcases (medium to large): You’ll often need large or extra-large lockers, and these fill up early.

• Strollers / oversized items: May not fit in lockers, so manned luggage storage is the realistic option.

The key winter tip is: If there’s no large locker available, don’t keep searching—switch early to manned storage. Walking around on snowy roads will tire you out quickly.

3. Luggage Storage Services Within a 5-Minute Walk

of Otaru Station

KITARIN (right by the station)

A convenient backup because it’s close to the station and often serves as the best option when lockers are full or large luggage won’t fit.

In winter, being able to store luggage right next to the station is a major advantage—the heavier the snow, the more reassuring it is.

Fees, reception hours, and payment methods may change by season, so please confirm on-site.

COTARU (between the station and the canal)

A convenient base within walking distance, located roughly midway between the station and the Otaru Canal area.

It’s often chosen by travelers who have checked out of their hotel but still want to keep sightseeing in Otaru.

Fees, reception hours, and payment methods may change by season, so please confirm on-site.

4. Winter Travel Tips (Snowy Roads & Taxis)

In winter in Otaru, please keep the following in mind:

• Snow and ice may remain on sidewalks, causing suitcase wheels to sink in or slip.

• Snow buildup can make curb edges and small steps higher, meaning you’ll need to lift your luggage more often.

• Depending on snowfall and the time of day, it may be hard to catch a taxi.

Trying to move around while carrying luggage increases both risk and fatigue. Especially in winter, prioritize options that let you store your bags near the station first and, whenever possible, complete everything indoors.

5. If You Want to Store Luggage in the Canal / Sakaimachi Street Area

If you’ve already moved toward the Otaru Canal or Sakaimachi Street, or you plan to focus your route around the canal, storing your luggage on the sightseeing-area side is also an option.

• Otaru International Information Center (formerly Otaru Canal Plaza): Tourist information + lockers (please check availability on-site).

• Sakaimachi Street area: Some shops and facilities may offer luggage storage (availability and conditions vary—confirm with each location).

In winter, travel itself can be tiring, so if you can store your luggage on the sightseeing-area side, choosing not to go back can be a smart move.

6. Which Option to Choose by Situation (Winter Version)

• Want to store luggage as quickly as possible / heavy snow:Inside-the-station lockers (if unavailable → bus terminal lockers → KitariN)

• Large luggage or multiple bags and lockers feel risky:Switch early to manned storage such as KitariN / COTARU

• Want to keep sightseeing after hotel check-out:Choose a storage point that fits your route (near the station or between the station and the canal)* COTARU is often chosen for this purpose.

• Planning to focus on the Canal / Sakaimachi Street area:Consider options on the sightseeing-area side (the Information Center, facilities around Sakaimachi Street, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What if the lockers are full?

A. In winter, the more you search around, the more exhausted you’ll get. Switch in order: inside the station → bus terminal → KitariN, and if necessary, move to manned storage early.

Q. Are there 24-hour lockers?

A. Operations vary by location and machine. In winter, closing times and reception hours matter more, so be sure to check the on-site signage.

Q. Is it dangerous to walk with a suitcase in winter?

A. It’s less “dangerous” and more far more tiring than expected. With steps and icy surfaces, storing luggage first is the safer choice.

Summary: In Winter Otaru, “Store It First” Is the Best Choice

In winter Otaru, sidewalks can be difficult to walk on due to snow, and there are days and time periods when taxis are hard to find. That’s why, after you arrive, it’s smoothest to decide where to store your luggage in order from the closest options: inside-the-station lockers → bus terminal lockers → KitariN, and if lockers are not available, switch early to manned luggage storage.

Reduce the stress of carrying bags, and enjoy winter Otaru safely and comfortably.

Google Maps