LeTAO Main Store (小樽洋菓子舗ルタオ 本店) is one of the most beloved attractions on Sakaimachi Street, standing proudly at the picturesque Meruhen Intersection (Marchen-Kōsaten)—a prime photo spot famous for its nostalgic European charm. The name “LeTAO” comes from La Tour Amitié Otaru, meaning “The Tower of Friendship in Otaru”, reflecting both the warmth of the store and the distinctive clock tower architecture that has become a symbol of the city.

The store features three thoughtfully curated floors, each offering a unique experience:

— 1st Floor Shop
Packed with freshly baked pastries, seasonal cakes, and exclusive products available only at the flagship. Popular items include the Honey Butter Financier and the monthly limited “Merci Sweets.” This floor also hosts the take-out counter offering the widely-loved Moo Moo Milk Pie Puff, sold only here.

— 2nd Floor Café
A retro-inspired café known for refined, café-only offerings. The top recommendation is the “Miracle of the Mouth Set”, allowing guests to savor two signature cheesecakes—Double Fromage and Venezia Rendezvous—paired with LeTAO’s fragrant specialty tea.

— 3rd Floor Observation Deck
A peaceful vantage point offering panoramic views of Otaru’s charming historic district. It is an ideal photo spot and a quiet escape from the busy street below.

Beyond its structure, the store’s worldwide reputation comes from the iconic Double Fromage cheesecake—a delicate fusion of unbaked mascarpone cream atop a baked cheesecake base, creating a smooth, creamy texture that melts instantly.

LeTAO Main Store enhances the visitor experience with multilingual staff (English, Chinese, and often Thai), free Wi-Fi, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and nearby customer parking that can be validated with qualifying purchases.

Friendly service, excellent facilities, and exclusive sweets make the flagship an essential stop for food lovers exploring Otaru.

• From JR Minami-Otaru Station, walk approximately 5–7 minutes along Sakaimachi Street. The European-style tower standing at the intersection’s end makes the LeTAO Main Store easy to spot.
• For drivers, customer parking is available nearby, typically offering 1–2 hours of free parking with minimum purchase.

• Café reservations are accepted until the previous day, but not on weekends, holidays, or festival periods—expect queues during peak hours.

• For travelers returning to Thailand or abroad, chilled desserts (such as Double Fromage) can be purchased later at New Chitose Airport-Domestic Terminal, where dry ice packing is conveniently provided.

• Arrive early for limited-edition sweets, which often sell out by afternoon.

• The observation deck is best visited in the morning for optimal lighting and a quieter atmosphere.

Admission Fee:

• Free entry (charges apply for food, drinks, and takeaway items).

Opening Time:

• 9:00 – 18:00 daily
  Café last order: 17:30