How to get from Tokyo to Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is famous for its winter festivals, fresh seafood, hot springs, and stunning natural landscapes. Located 1,150 km (715 miles) north of Tokyo, Sapporo is accessible by flight, train, bus, and ferry. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Tokyo to Sapporo:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Shinkansen (Bullet Train) + Express Train: A scenic but longer journey.
• By Highway Bus: The cheapest but slowest option.
• By Ferry: A unique and relaxing alternative.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Tokyo to Sapporo.

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Tokyo to Sapporo is the quickest and easiest way to travel, with multiple airlines operating daily flights between the two cities.

Key Details:

• Departure Airports:
  • Haneda Airport (HND) (closer to central Tokyo, more full-service airlines).
  • Narita Airport (NRT) (farther but offers budget airline options).
• Arrival Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) (40 minutes from Sapporo city center).
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Price: 5,000–20,000 JPY (~$35–$140 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Full-Service Airlines: Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA).
  • Budget Airlines: Jetstar Japan, Peach Aviation, Skymark Airlines, Air Do.
• Frequency: Over 50 daily flights, available from early morning to late evening.

Pros:

• Fastest way to reach Sapporo.
• Multiple departures daily.
• Budget airlines offer cheap fares when booked in advance.

Cons:

• Requires airport transfers in both Tokyo and Sapporo.
• Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 1–2 months in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train) + Express Train: A Scenic but Longer Journey

Although there is no direct bullet train to Sapporo, travelers can take the Shinkansen to Hokkaido and transfer to a limited express train.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take the Tohoku-Hokkaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.
  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Price: 23,000 JPY (~$155 USD).
• Step 2: Transfer to the Limited Express Hokuto train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo.
  • Duration: 3.5 hours.
  • Price: 5,720 JPY (~$40 USD).
• Total Duration: 7.5 to 8 hours.
• Total Price: 28,000 JPY (~$190 USD).
• JR Pass Coverage: Fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).

Pros:

• More comfortable than flying (larger seats, more legroom).
• Scenic route through northern Japan.
• Fully covered by JR Pass, making it cost-effective for pass holders.

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer than flying.
• Transfers required at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.

Booking Tip:

If using the Japan Rail Pass, reserve your Shinkansen and Limited Express tickets in advance at a JR ticket office. Use our online search form to check train schedules.

By Highway Bus: The Cheapest but Slowest Option

For budget travelers, taking a long-distance bus from Tokyo to Sapporo is the cheapest option, but it is extremely slow.

Key Details:

• Departure Points: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Ikebukuro.
• Arrival Point: Sapporo Station.
• Duration: 18 to 24 hours, including rest stops.
• Price: 9,000–15,000 JPY (~$60–$100 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Willer Express.
  • Hokkaido Chuo Bus.

Pros:

• Cheapest way to travel long-distance.
• Comfortable overnight buses save on accommodation.

Cons:

• Extremely long journey (18+ hours).
• Can be uncomfortable for some travelers.

Booking Tip:

For overnight buses, book a premium class seat for a more comfortable experience. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your seat.

By Ferry: A Unique and Relaxing Alternative

For a slow but scenic experience, taking a ferry from Tokyo to Sapporo (via Tomakomai) is an option.

Key Details:

• Route: Tokyo → Tomakomai (Hokkaido) → Sapporo.
• Departure Ports: Oarai Port (north of Tokyo) or Niigata Port.
• Arrival Port: Tomakomai Port (Hokkaido).
• Duration: 17 to 20 hours.
• Price: 10,000–30,000 JPY (~$70–$200 USD), depending on class.
• Ferry Operators:
  • MOL Ferry (Sunflower Ferry).
  • Shin Nihonkai Ferry.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Take a train from Tokyo to Oarai Port (~2 hours).
2. Board the ferry to Tomakomai (~17 hours).
3. Take a train from Tomakomai to Sapporo (~1 hour).

Pros:

• Scenic ocean views and relaxing journey.
• Overnight cabins available for a comfortable trip.

Cons:

• Takes much longer than flights or trains.
• Limited departures per week.

Booking Tip:

Book a private cabin if you prefer a more comfortable trip. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules.

Final Tips for Traveling from Tokyo to Sapporo

• Best Option for Speed: Flights (1h 30m).
• Best Option for Budget: Highway bus (9,000–15,000 JPY, 18+ hours).
• Best Option for JR Pass Holders: Shinkansen + Limited Express (7.5h, fully covered by JR Pass).
• Best Option for Scenic Travel: Ferry (17–20h, ocean views).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Flights, trains, and buses fill up quickly during the Sapporo Snow Festival (February) and ski season.