Hakodate, known for its stunning night views from Mount Hakodate, historical buildings, and fresh seafood markets, is a popular destination in southern Hokkaido, Japan. Located 260 km (162 miles) southwest of Sapporo, Hakodate is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), limited express train, bus, flight, or car. 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 Sapporo to Hakodate:
- By Shinkansen or Limited Express Train: The fastest and most comfortable option.
- By Bus: The most affordable but slower alternative.
- By Flight: The fastest but least practical choice.
- By Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Sapporo to Hakodate.
Timetable
| Flight New Chitose Airport - Hakodate Â¥ 13,734–29,708 35m – 19h 19m | |
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| Flight Sapporo - Hakodate Â¥ 18,844–24,785 40m | |
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| Bus Sapporo - Hakodate ¥ 4,615 3h 48m | |
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By Shinkansen or Limited Express Train: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option
Taking a Shinkansen or Limited Express Train from Sapporo to Hakodate is the quickest and most convenient way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Sapporo Station.
- Arrival Station: Hakodate Station.
- Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 8,500–9,000 JPY (~$60–$65 USD), depending on seat class.
- Train Types:
- Limited Express Hokuto (Direct, most popular).
- Shinkansen (Requires transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto).
- Seating Options:
- Ordinary Class (Standard seating, comfortable and spacious).
- Green Car (First class, more legroom and reclining seats).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
- JR Pass Valid: Yes, fully covered with Japan Rail Pass.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~3.5 hours on Limited Express Hokuto).
- Comfortable and spacious seating.
- Scenic views of Hokkaido’s coastline and mountains.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses.
- Limited seating during peak travel periods.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book a Green Car seat. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: The Most Affordable but Slower Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Sapporo to Hakodate is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Sapporo Station Bus Terminal.
- Susukino Station Bus Terminal.
- Arrival Point: Hakodate Station Bus Terminal.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 4,000–5,000 JPY (~$28–$35 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Hokkaido Express Bus.
- Hakodate Bus.
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities).
- Premium Bus (More legroom, reclining seats, blankets).
- Departure Frequency: Every 2–3 hours from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than trains (~4,000 JPY for budget buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Scenic views along the coast and mountains.
Cons:
- Takes longer than the train (~5+ hours).
- Traffic delays are possible.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a Premium Bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Flight: The Fastest but Least Practical Choice
While it is possible to fly from Sapporo to Hakodate, this option is not recommended due to the short distance and extra airport transfer time.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS), Sapporo.
- Arrival Airport: Hakodate Airport (HKD).
- Duration: 40 minutes (excluding airport transfers).
- Price: 10,000–20,000 JPY (~$70–$140 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- ANA (All Nippon Airways).
- JAL (Japan Airlines).
- Flight Frequency: 4–6 daily flights from morning to evening.
Additional Airport Transfers:
- From Hakodate Airport to City Center:
- By Bus: 20 minutes to Hakodate Station,
450 JPY ($3 USD). - By Taxi/Grab: 15 minutes,
2,500 JPY ($18 USD).
- By Bus: 20 minutes to Hakodate Station,
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~40 minutes).
Cons:
- Total travel time (including airport transfers) is longer than taking the train.
- More expensive than trains and buses.
Booking Tip:
Only consider flying if you find a significantly discounted fare. Use our online search form to compare flight options.
By Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Sapporo to Hakodate is an option, especially if you want to stop at scenic spots along the way.
Key Details:
- Route: Sapporo → Hakodate via Route 5.
- Distance: 260 km (162 miles).
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
- Toll Fees:
4,000 JPY ($28 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
3,000 JPY ($20 USD). - Car Rental Price: 8,000–15,000 JPY per day (~$55–$100 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Toyota Rent-a-Car.
- Nippon Rent-a-Car.
- Times Car Rental.
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for groups and families.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Winter driving conditions can be challenging.
Booking Tip:
For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.
Final Tips for Traveling from Sapporo to Hakodate
- Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Limited Express Train (~3.5 hours, from 8,500 JPY).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~4,000 JPY, 5+ hours).
- Best Option for Flexibility & Scenic Stops: Rental Car (~4 hours, from 8,000 JPY).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and rental cars sell out quickly during cherry blossom season and winter holidays.
