Best Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Sapporo
Looking to travel from Tokyo to Sapporo? There are many ways to do so — not just the Shinkansen! You can fly, take a train, ride a ferry, or drive from Tokyo to Sapporo. We’ll explore each mode of travel to find the best option for you.
The Tokyo-Sapporo route, one of the world’s busiest air routes, offers dozens of flights daily, making it easy to find a round trip that suits your schedule. For those who prefer land travel, the iconic Shinkansen bullet train, also known as the “bullet train,” provides a smooth, fast, and scenic ride.
For a slower pace, ferries and road trips offer a chance to absorb the landscape at your leisure. And the best part? You can mix and match these methods for a truly customized journey.
Regardless of your choice, remember to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and potentially bag early-bird discounts. Now, we’ll explore each of these transportation methods in detail to aid your decision on the best way to travel from Tokyo to Sapporo.
1) Tokyo to Sapporo by Plane
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cost: From ¥5,300 (one-way)
- Route: Tokyo Haneda or Narita Airport > Sapporo Chitose Airport
- Best for: Travelers on a tight schedule
If speed is your priority, flying from Tokyo to Sapporo is a fast and efficient way to kickstart your Hokkaido adventures — the journey only takes 1.5 hours! With Tokyo-Sapporo being one of the world’s busiest air routes, there are ample flights to Sapporo flights you can choose from.
Tokyo has two major airports — Haneda International Airport and Tokyo Narita Airport — both easily accessible from Tokyo Station. Each airport offers around 80 flights a day to New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, of varying costs depending on the airline.
Tickets from Haneda Airport typically come with a price tag that’s at least ¥2,000 higher than those departing from Narita Airport. However, don’t rush to book your flight from Narita just yet! You must factor in the cost of getting to the airports.
Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, and hence cheaper and quicker to get to than Narita. In some cases, the cost of reaching Narita could cancel out the savings you made on the cheaper plane ticket. Therefore, compare both flight and airport transfer costs when deciding which airport.
What airlines can I take?
Feel sky high when you travel to Japan via airplane. Credits to @dfwairport on Instagram
Besides full-cost carriers like Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways (ANA), there are many low cost carriers— like Peach Airlines, Jetstar Japan and Skymark — offering cheap flights from to Sapporo from just ¥5,300.
Once you land in Sapporo at the New Chitose Airport, you’re just a short journey from the city center. Conveniently located about 50km from Sapporo, the airport offers multiple transport options for travelers to reach the city center.
You can choose between regular direct trains, buses, airport transfers or car rental services. For a quick and convenient option, the train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo is a popular choice, taking around 36 minutes and costing about ¥1,150. Alternatively, the bus offers a slightly cheaper but longer journey. If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, car rental services are also available at the airport.
2) Tokyo to Sapporo by Shinkansen
- Duration: 7-7.5 hours
- Cost: From ¥31,820 (one-way)
- Route: Tokyo Station > Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station > Sapporo Station
- Best for: Travelers who are not in a rush, and enjoy scenic train journeys
If you’re not in a rush and would like to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Japan, then the Shinkansen bullet train is your best bet. This mode of transportation not only offers unparalleled punctuality and comfort but also showcases picturesque countryside views.
The journey from Tokyo to Sapporo by Shinkansen involves two train rides, with a transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. The Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto takes approximately 4–4.5 hours (from ¥22,380). From there, take the Ltd Express Super Hokuto or Express Hokuto to Sapporo Station, which takes another 3.5 hours (from ¥9,440).
Klook Tip: The journey to Hodate-Hokuto Station takes about 4 hours, and is suitable for those who want to enjoy different scenery from the Kanto region to the Tohoku region along the way. Consider making some stops along the way, such as at Sendai or Aomori to enjoy one or two more cities in the Tohoku region!
The whole trip from Tokyo to Sapporo takes around 7 hours and it'll cost you at least ¥31,820. But don’t let the steep price tag deter you; there are ways to make your journey more cost-effective!
Is it worth it to get a Japan Rail Pass?
If you're planning to take the train from Tokyo to Sapporo, investing in a 7-day Japan Rail (JR) Pass can save you a significant amount. This pass costs around ¥50,000 and offers unlimited travel on most JR trains nationwide for seven days.
Therefore, if you’re planning to travel extensively within Japan, the pass can provide substantial savings. It covers the new Hokkaido Shinkansen route and the Hayabusa train (Japan's fastest train at 320km/hr).
For a first-class travel experience, consider upgrading to Gran Class seating. However, note that you’d need to cover the difference to standard or Green Class ticket costs when using the Japan Rail Pass on a Hayabusa ride.
Future Plans for Shinkansen Expansion
The Shinkansen bullet train is continually evolving, with plans to extend the Hokkaido Shinkansen line to Sapporo by 2030. Once operational, this extension will offer travelers a direct Shinkansen link from Tokyo to Sapporo, eliminating the need for a transfer.
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3) Tokyo to Sapporo by Ferry
Credit: Sunflower
- Duration: 18-22 hours
- Cost: From ¥11,500 (ferry ticket)
- Route: Tokyo > Oarai Port (Ibaraki prefecture) > Tomakomai Port (Hokkaido prefecture) > Sapporo
- Best for: Those who enjoy slow travel
If you’re up for a Japan adventure that crosses both land and sea, taking a ferry from Tokyo to Hokkaido offers a unique experience. It's a roughly 18-hour ferry ride, ideal for those who aren't in a rush.
Sunflower Ferry from Oarai (Ibaraki) to Tomakomai (Hokkaido)
To take a ferry to Hokkaido, you'll have to head to the port in Oarai in Ibaraki prefecture — a 1hr 45-minute train journey from Tokyo. The Sunflower Ferry connects the ports in Oarai and Tomakomai in Hokkaido prefecture and takes roughly 18 hours.
There are two daily sailings, one in the evening and one at night.
- Evening ferry: Departs at 7:45PM, arrival at 1:30PM the next day
- Night ferry: Departs at 1:45AM, arrival at 7:30PM the next day
Credit: Sunflower
The Sunflower Ferry is actually pretty luxurious. There are six types of rooms available — ranging from a budget Tourist room ( ¥11,500) to a luxurious Suite ( ¥62,000). Facilities-wise, there's an onboard restaurant, shop and an (free!) onsen with an ocean view for guests to enjoy.
After arriving at the port in Tomakomai, you'll need to take a limited express train to Sapporo (45 minutes, from ¥3,360). The fares for the journey vary, so it’s advisable to check the schedule and availability before planning your trip.
4) Tokyo to Sapporo by Car
- Duration: 16-23 hours
- Cost: ¥15,150 for tolls, ¥15,400 to ¥26,100 for ferry — not including car rental
- Route: Tokyo > Aomori City > Hakodate > Sapporo
- Best for: Travelers who want to stop at cities in Tohoku along the way
For those with a love for the open road, driving from Tokyo to Sapporo offers the ultimate adventure. The recommended route includes driving to Aomori, taking a ferry to Hakodate or Tomakomai, and then driving to Sapporo. It’s important to note that the Seikan Tunnel, which connects Honshu and Hokkaido, does not accommodate cars, so a ferry transfer is necessary.
Estimated Travel Time and Cost
Driving from Tokyo to Sapporo is a lengthy but rewarding journey, offering you the freedom to stop off at various locations along the way. The estimated travel time is approximately 16 hours when using toll roads. If you choose to avoid toll roads, the travel time extends to over 23 hours.
Toll fees for this journey amount to approximately ¥15,150. Fuel costs will vary depending on vehicle efficiency and current fuel prices. While it’s the longest travel method on our list, the freedom to explore at your own pace and the ability to stop at interesting locations en route make it a worthy consideration for the adventurous traveler.
Note: It might be difficult to find a car rental that lets you pick-up in Tokyo and drop-off in Sapporo.
Ferry Options for Cars
When driving from Tokyo to Sapporo, ferry services from Aomori to Hokkaido come in handy. There are several ferry options available, with fares varying based on the size of your vehicle and the time of year.
The Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry from Aomori to Hakodate offers car fares ranging from ¥15,400 to ¥26,100. The Silver Ferry from Hachinohe to Tomakomai charges ¥21,000 for vehicles less than 4 meters in length. Remember, these prices are for the vehicle only, and additional passenger tickets are required. So, while it adds a bit to your travel cost, it offers a unique and scenic way to make the journey across the sea.
What is the best way to get from Tokyo to Sapporo?
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best way to travel from Tokyo to Sapporo. Each method of transport offers its unique advantages.
If you want speed, flights are your best bet. For a scenic journey, the Shinkansen bullet train or a road trip might be more suitable. If you want to combine travel with relaxation, consider the long-distance ferry. Whichever mode of transport you choose, the journey from Tokyo to Sapporo promises to be a memorable part of your Japanese adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Tokyo airport offers cheaper flights to Sapporo?
Narita Airport typically offers cheaper flights to Sapporo compared to Haneda Airport, but it's important to consider the overall cost, including transportation to the airport.
Is it cheaper to travel by Shinkansen or plane from Tokyo to Sapporo?
The Shinkansen may provide a more scenic and unique travel experience, although airfare can sometimes be cheaper, especially with budget airlines. Consider the Japan Rail Pass for significant savings on Shinkansen travel.
Can I take my car on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sapporo?
No, cars are not allowed on the Shinkansen. You can consider driving to Aomori, taking a ferry to Hokkaido, and then driving to Sapporo.
What is the cheapest class of travel on the ferry from Tokyo to Hokkaido?
The cheapest class of travel on the ferry from Tokyo to Hokkaido costs around ¥11,000. Consider booking this class for a budget-friendly journey.
Is it possible to travel directly from Tokyo to Sapporo by Shinkansen?
No, currently you would need to transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. However, the Hokkaido Shinkansen line is planned to be extended to Sapporo by 2030.
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