Temiya Green Botanical Garden

Temiya Park, which encompasses the Temiya Green Botanical Garden, was established as state-owned land in 1900, making it the fourth oldest existing urban park in Hokkaido. The park covers 19.7 hectares and sits on a hill in the northern part of Otaru city.

The botanical garden sits at a hillside altitude of approximately 70 metres and is divided into 15 themed areas, including a Japanese Garden, Cherry Tree Garden, and Rhododendron Garden, allowing visitors to experience different plants across the seasons. Around 700 cherry trees — including Ezo-Yamazakura and Somei-Yoshino varieties — are planted throughout, with cherry blossom viewing peaking from early to mid-May. The park also contains a chestnut forest considered the northernmost natural chestnut grove in Japan, with approximately 250 large trees over 100 years old.

From the garden's gentle hills, visitors can take in views of Otaru Bay alongside the surrounding greenery, and the spot is officially recognised as one of Otaru's most important vantage points. Beyond spring, colourful autumn foliage makes the park a rewarding destination across multiple seasons. Several notable landmarks are located nearby, including the Otaru City General Museum and the Temiya Cave, a site of historical and archaeological significance.

Admission to the botanical garden is free of charge, and a parking lot is available at no cost. From Otaru Station, take a Hokkaido Chuo Bus on the 10 Takatsu-Shukutsu Line, 3 Otaru City Line, or 11 Shukutsu Line (towards Temiya) to the Temiya Bus Terminal, then walk approximately 20 minutes. Otaru itself is reachable from New Chitose Airport in roughly 90 minutes via the Rapid Airport Express train.