Otaru Art Village: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring with a Combo Ticket

Otaru, a town often associated with the romance of the film , holds a deeper charm along its canal, hidden within the facades of former bank buildings. Once known as the 'Wall Street of the North' for its immense wealth, Otaru's modern architectural gems have transformed into the Otaru Art Village (Nitori Museum of Art Complex), now housing world-class art. WAUG introduces how to perfectly explore 5 museums with a single combo ticket, making your Otaru trip more intellectually enriching.


Five Artistic Gems Unveiled with the Combo Ticket

The Otaru Art Village combo ticket connects five distinct exhibition spaces, allowing you to experience them as a cohesive journey. Explore each space, which offers its own unique allure.

Glass and Art Museum (Former Takahashi Warehouse):
This museum showcases genuine stained glass pieces that once adorned British churches from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The vibrant colors pouring through the high ceilings of the warehouse building evoke a sense of awe.

Nitori Museum of Art (Former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch):
Within this magnificent modern architectural structure, you'll find Japanese and Western paintings, alongside delicate glassworks by 'Emile Gallé'. The grandeur of the former bank building creates a striking contrast with the brilliance of the artworks.

Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch:
Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, this building is an exhibit in itself. It preserves the opulent interior of the bank from its active days, and a stunning projection mapping show on the ceiling is a definite highlight.

Museum of European Art (Former Naniwa Warehouse):
Located right by the canal, this venue features furniture and glass art in Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. It offers a unique experience of encountering the lavish lifestyle of 100 years ago within Otaru's historic warehouse.


Why Choose the Combo Ticket?

The exhibition halls of Otaru Art Village are conveniently located close to each other, making them easily accessible on foot. Opting for the combo ticket not only saves you approximately 20-30% compared to purchasing individual tickets but also eliminates the hassle of queuing at each ticket counter. Even if you're not deeply passionate about art, the value of the combo ticket is undeniable, simply for the opportunity to explore the interior of Hokkaido's modern architectural heritage.