Hokkaidō Getting there & around

Getting there & away

Sapporo is the main hub of all Hokkaidō traffic, though Hakodate and other smaller cities also offer direct flights to many of Japan’s larger cities. Be sure to check internet deals or discount ticket agencies for substantial discounts. If you are coming from mainland Honshū, consider taking a Hokutosei Express night train (¥25270) to save time and the cost of a hotel stay. The shinkansen (bullet train) does not offer a service direct to Hokkaidō; take it as far as Aomori, then take the tokkyū (limited express) from there. Trips from Tokyo will take about 10 hours and require two train changes. A similar but much more expensive option is the Cassiopeia sleeper train (from ¥32, 320).

For those without Japan Rail (JR) Passes, ferries are a low-cost alternative, anywhere between ¥5000 and ¥10, 000. They arrive at Hakodate, Otaru, Muroran and Tomakomai – all relatively close to Sapporo. Ferries are often fancy; some include saunas and gyms. The cheap 2nd-class tickets offer sleeping on open-area mats. Berths in a shared 2nd-class cabin cost about ¥2000 more and may be more relaxing. Though theft is unlikely, you should watch your valuables.