How to get from Sapporo to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is known for its skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant nightlife. Located 1,150 km (715 miles) south of Sapporo, Tokyo is accessible by flight, Shinkansen (bullet train), highway bus, or 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 Sapporo to Tokyo:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): A comfortable but longer land option.
• By Highway Bus: The cheapest but longest alternative.
• By Ferry: A unique and scenic journey for adventurous travelers.

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

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Sapporo to Tokyo is the quickest and easiest way to travel.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS), Sapporo.
• Arrival Airports: Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT), Tokyo.
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (excluding airport transfers).
• Price: 10,000–30,000 JPY (~$70–$200 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • ANA (All Nippon Airways, full-service).
  • JAL (Japan Airlines, full-service).
  • Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan, Skymark (budget airlines).
• Flight Frequency: Over 40 daily flights from morning to evening.

Airport Transfers in Tokyo:

• Haneda Airport to City Center:
  • By Monorail: 20 minutes to Hamamatsucho Station, 500 JPY ($3.50 USD).
  • By Taxi/Grab: 30–45 minutes, 5,000–8,000 JPY ($35–$55 USD).
• Narita Airport to City Center:
  • By Narita Express (N’EX): 1 hour to Tokyo Station, 3,000 JPY ($20 USD).
  • By Limousine Bus: 1.5 hours, 3,200 JPY ($22 USD).

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~1.5 hours).
• Multiple flights available throughout the day.
• Affordable options with budget airlines.

Cons:

• Flights can be delayed due to weather in Hokkaido.
• Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): A Comfortable but Longer Land Option

For travelers who prefer a scenic and comfortable land journey, taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Sapporo to Tokyo is a great choice.

Key Details:

• Route: Sapporo → Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto (Limited Express) → Tokyo (Hokkaido Shinkansen).
• Departure Station: Sapporo Station.
• Arrival Station: Tokyo Station.
• Duration: 7.5 to 8.5 hours, depending on connections.
• Price: 27,000–30,000 JPY (~$180–$200 USD).
• Train Types:
  • Limited Express Hokuto (Sapporo → Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto).
  • Hokkaido Shinkansen Hayabusa (Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto → Tokyo).
• Seating Options:
  • Ordinary Class (Standard seating, comfortable and spacious).
  • Green Car (First class, more legroom and reclining seats).
  • Gran Class (Luxury, includes meals and drinks).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple daily departures from morning to evening.
• JR Pass Valid: Yes, fully covered with Japan Rail Pass.

Pros:

• Comfortable and spacious seating.
• Scenic views along the Pacific coastline.
• No baggage fees, unlike budget flights.

Cons:

• Takes much longer than flying (~8 hours).
• More expensive than budget flights.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, book a Green Car or Gran Class seat. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.

By Highway Bus: The Cheapest but Longest Alternative

For budget travelers, taking a highway bus from Sapporo to Tokyo is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes significantly longer than the Shinkansen or flight.

Key Details:

• Departure Points: Sapporo Station Bus Terminal or Susukino Station.
• Arrival Points: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Bus Terminal, or Ikebukuro Station.
• Duration: 16 to 18 hours, including rest stops.
• Price: 8,000–15,000 JPY (~$55–$100 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Willer Express (budget option).
  • JR Bus (comfortable, JR Pass discount available).
  • Hokkaido Bus.
• Bus Types:
  • Standard Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities).
  • Premium Bus (More legroom, reclining seats, blankets).
• Departure Frequency: Overnight departures, daily.

Pros:

• Cheaper than flights and Shinkansen (~8,000 JPY for budget buses).
• Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer (~16+ hours).
• Limited rest stops.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a premium overnight bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Ferry: A Unique and Scenic Journey for Adventurous Travelers

For those seeking a unique travel experience, taking a ferry from Sapporo to Tokyo is an option, though it’s the slowest route.

Key Details:

• Departure Port: Tomakomai Port (1 hour from Sapporo).
• Arrival Port: Oarai Port (2 hours from Tokyo).
• Duration: 18 to 20 hours (overnight journey).
• Price: 9,000–30,000 JPY (~$60–$200 USD), depending on cabin type.
• Ferry Operators:
  • Sunflower Ferry.
  • MOL Ferry.
• Cabin Options:
  • Economy (Shared dormitory).
  • Private Room (Single, Twin, or Suite).

Pros:

• Scenic sea views and relaxing experience.
• No baggage restrictions.

Cons:

• Slowest travel option (~20 hours).
• Limited departure times.

Booking Tip:

For better privacy, book a private room. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules and book your ticket.