Funamizaka is one of the steepest and most iconic hills in Otaru, a historic port city on the west coast of Hokkaido. The name translates to "the slope where you can see the ships," aptly describing the panoramic maritime views that await visitors at the summit. During Otaru's prosperous trading era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, wealthy residents built homes along this slope to enjoy vistas of the blue sea and distant mountains. The hill connects the residential areas on the west side of Otaru Station with the eastern district, serving as both a practical thoroughfare and a scenic landmark.
The slope gained international recognition as a filming location for the 1995 romantic film "Love Letter" directed by Shunji Iwai. In the movie, Funamizaka is depicted as the place where the protagonists confirm an address on a letter, and the atmospheric winter scenes perfectly capture the melancholy beauty of Otaru. Now 30 years after its release, the film continues to draw travelers, particularly from China and across Asia, who seek to recreate iconic shots from the movie. The location has also appeared in numerous other Japanese TV dramas and films set in Hokkaido.
Visitors ascending Funamizaka encounter a steep incline with a gradient of 15%, marked by a signpost partway up the hill. After crossing a footbridge over the Hakodate Main Line railway, the climb reveals increasingly expansive views. At the top, on clear days, the vista encompasses Otaru Canal, Otaru Station, Otaru Port with its anchored ships, and the expanse of Ishikari Bay stretching toward the Sea of Japan. The surrounding historic wooden houses with snow-covered roofs during winter months add to the quintessential Japanese atmosphere. The hill offers particularly stunning scenery during Hokkaido's winter season when pristine white snow blankets the landscape, though the views remain impressive year-round.
Funamizaka is located approximately 5 minutes' walk from JR Otaru Station, making it one of the most accessible attractions in the city. Visitors should exit the station and head toward Otaru Sankaku Market, then look uphill from the Funamizakashita intersection to spot the ascending slope. The walk from the base to the summit takes roughly 15 minutes at a comfortable pace. While the incline is steep, it is manageable for most visitors wearing comfortable walking shoes.
The site is open 24 hours daily with no admission fee, allowing travelers to visit at any time to catch different lighting conditions. Those arriving by car will find the location accessible via National Route 5. Due to increased tourist traffic, particularly during peak winter season, local authorities have deployed security personnel to manage crowds and remind visitors to avoid trespassing on private property or obstructing roadways.
