If you have ever visited Otaru, you have surely seen the words "Kitaichi Glass. Kitaichi Glass has been selling glassware in Otaru for over a century. Let's take a look at the history of Kitaichi Glass and what kind of products it sells.

Asahara Glass, the predecessor of Kitaichi Glass, was founded in 1901. The company began by manufacturing oil lamps, and later changed its product line to include floating balls for fishing and tableware as lifestyles changed.

The current store, Kitaichi Glass Building No. 3, was originally a warehouse for the fishing industry, an old wood-frame stone warehouse built in 1891, which was renovated and opened as a new store in 1983. If you look closely, you can still see the trolley tracks that were actually used in the days of the fishing warehouse inside the store.

Kitaichi Glass No. 3 is currently divided into three floors according to theme: the Western floor, the Japanese floor, and the Country floor. On the Western floor, colorful tableware and wine glasses are lined up like a dreamland.

Unlike products that are uniformly produced in factories, the warmth of handmade products can be felt. You will be tempted to find something you like and use it with care for a long time.

On the Japanese floor, you will find a variety of glass tableware perfect for dining. The glassware has a modern atmosphere and many of the colors are subdued, making you want to have all of them.

The "Tsukimi-Usagi" series is especially popular, and the cute rabbit on the glass will make you smile. The full moon on the glass is a fun way to see the rabbits.

The country floor is also lined with colorful glassware. What sets this floor apart from the others is the large selection of lighting fixtures.

Recalling that Kitaichi Glass started out with oil lamps, these lighting fixtures may be the ones to look out for. They are sure to accentuate your interior and create a wonderful space.

After a day of shopping, why not take a break at Kitaichi Hall? Kitaichi Hall is a coffee shop located next to the Western floor, where 167 oil lamps are used for lighting, creating a somewhat solemn atmosphere. They are lit one by one by hand every day.

We recommend the "Special Chiffon Cake" (430 yen including tax) and "Royal Milk Tea" (350 yen including tax). The moderate sweetness will soothe your fatigue after strolling through the three floors.

Kitaichi Glass products are made against the background of Otaru's climate and culture, including its history, buildings, and nature. In other words, each handmade glass product is packed with the charm of Otaru.

Why don't you find your favorite one as a memory of your visit to Otaru?