Take our Small Group Japan Cherry
Blossom Tour - Save $200 Early Bird! | 
Tokyo to Sapporo: Which Way Should You Go? Comparison Between 4 Ways
| Way | Time | Cost (Approx.) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 2 hrs | $120-$400 | Everyone! Fast, easy, and frequent | Haneda is more convenient; Narita is cheaper |
| Bullet Train + JR Train | 7.5-9 hrs | $240+ | JR Pass holders, train lovers, scenic route fans | Transfer in Hakodate required |
| Ferry | 18+ hrs | $130-$240+ | Slow travelers, sea lovers, road-trippers with vehicles | Not direct; needs extra transfers |
| Drive | 2+ days | $300-$500+ | Hardcore road trippers only | Long, tiring, ferry required |
Tokyo to Sapporo Flight - The Best Way within 2-3 Hours
Flying is the easiest and fastest way to get from Tokyo to Sapporo. It only takes about 1.5 hours in the air, and with airport transfers, you're looking at a total travel time of 2 to 3 hours tops. Super doable.
You'll be landing at New Chitose Airport, which is the main airport for Sapporo. It's not exactly in the city - it's about 53 km away - but don't worry, getting into town is simple (more on that in a bit).
There are two airports you can fly out from in Tokyo - Haneda and Narita - and here's how they compare:
Haneda to Chitose Flights
If you're already in central Tokyo, Haneda is your best bet. It's much closer, only about 20 km from downtown, and you can get there in around 50 minutes by train or taxi.
Haneda has more than 40 flights a day to Sapporo, starting as early as 6:30 AM and going up to around 9:30 PM. So even if you're not a morning person, you'll still find a time that works.
- Flight time: Around 5 hours
- Tickets: Usually $300-$400 USD, but if you book early or catch a deal, you might snag one for as low as $120.
- Airlines: You'll find ANA, JAL, Air Do, and even low-cost carriers like Skymark.
If you 're planning to visit Tokyo, Mount Fuji, or Hakone before heading up north, flying from Haneda makes everything smoother.
Narita to Chitose Flights
Now, Narita is farther out, about 70 km from central Tokyo, so getting there takes roughly 1.5 hours. But don't count it out just yet.
Narita has fewer flights to Sapporo (about 10+ per day, mostly between 6 AM and 6 PM), but they're usually cheaper. If you're coming off an international flight, and just want to transfer straight to Hokkaido, this might be a good option.
- Flight time: Around 1 hour 50 minutes
- Tickets: Typically $200-$250, and again, early booking gets you the best price.
Bonus: Budget airlines like Peach and Jetstar fly this route too - perfect if you 're traveling light and looking to save.
From Chitose Airport to Sapporo City Centre
Once you land at New Chitose, you're not stuck in the middle of nowhere - Sapporo is super easy to reach.
Best option? Take the JR Rapid Airport Train. It runs every 15 minutes or so and gets you to Sapporo Station in about 35 minutes. It's fast, comfy, and only costs around ¥1,150 (~$8 USD). You can even upgrade to a reserved seat with extra luggage space for a few bucks more.
If you've got lots of bags or your hotel's not right near the station, the airport bus might be better. It goes to areas like Odori and Susukino, takes about 70-80 minutes, and costs a similar price - ¥1,100-¥1,300 (~$9 USD). The ride is smooth, but you could hit traffic.
Last option: Taxi or private transfer. Convenient, but pricey, usually ¥13,000-¥18,000 ($90-120 USD). If you 're traveling with family or just landed late at night, it might be worth the splurge.
If you want fast and fuss-free, flying is the way to go. Just pick the airport that fits your schedule or travel plan best - Haneda for convenience, Narita for cheaper fares. And once you're in Chitose, getting to Sapporo is a breeze.
For a hands-off Tokyo to Sapporo air trip, simply get in touch with your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel . Contact us now!
Tokyo to Sapporo Bullet Train - 8-Hour Transfer
You've heard of the Shinkansen, right? Japan's famous bullet train that zooms across the country like lightning? Good news: it does go north toward Hokkaido… but not quite all the way to Sapporo.
The Shinkansen currently only runs as far as Hakodate - a beautiful city in southern Hokkaido. From there, you'll need to switch trains to reach Sapporo. So it's not one smooth ride just yet, but still a pretty awesome journey.
Step 1: Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto (Hokkaido Shinkansen)
You can catch the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station, and it'll take you to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in about 4 to 4.5 hours.
And the prices? Here's the breakdown from Asia Odyssey Travel:
- Ordinary car(3+2 seats layout): ~$170 USD
- Green car(2+2 seats layout, more legroom): ~$230 USD
- Gran Class(1st class luxury): ~$310 USD
It's fast, comfy, and gives you that classic Shinkansen experience.
Step 2: Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo (Limited Express Train - "Super Hokuto")
When you get off the Shinkansen, you're not done yet - time to switch to a Limited Express train called the Super Hokuto. This leg takes another 3.5 to 4 hours, and it's a slower, older train, but super scenic.
Prices here are:
- Ordinary seat: ~$70 USD
- Green car: ~$100 USD
So all up, you 're looking at 7.5 to 9 hours total travel time, and around $240 USD and up. Not exactly cheap, and definitely not quick, which is why most people choose to fly.
For a hassle-free Tokyo to Sapporo train trip, simply get in touch with your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel . Contact us now!
But… Why Do People Still Take the Train?
Because the ride is genuinely gorgeous.
You'll shoot out of Tokyo, cruise through the Tohoku region, dive into the legendary Seikan Tunnel (yep, that's under the sea!), then pop out into Hokkaido and roll past mountains, ocean views, farmland, and open skies.
No airport stress. No luggage rules. Just get on, sit back, and enjoy the ride.
So if you've got time, love trains, or just want to see more of Japan, this route is worth every minute.
Are There Any Sleeper Train from Tokyo to Sapporo?
Nope, there's currently no sleeper train running directly between Tokyo and Sapporo.
Japan used to have a couple of iconic overnight trains, like the Hokutosei and the Cassiopeia - total legends among train fans, known for their retro charm, cozy bunk beds, and scenic nighttime routes.
But sadly, both were discontinued in 2015 and 2016, thanks to faster bullet trains and all those cheap flights zipping people between Tokyo and Hokkaido.
Still dreaming of an overnight ride? Cheer up - you can take a sleeper ferry instead!
Tokyo to Sapporo by Ferry: 18 Hours of Sunflower Ferry from Oarai to Tomakomai
Not in a rush? Want to slow things down and try something a bit offbeat? Then hop aboard the Sunflower Ferry - it's like a floating hotel with beds, baths, food, and front-row views of the ocean sunrise and sunset. Think of it as a mini cruise between Tokyo and Hokkaido.
Just one thing - it doesn't leave from Tokyo exactly, and it doesn't arrive right in Sapporo either. Here's how it works:
- Departsfrom Oarai Port (about 2 hours from Tokyo)
- Arrivesat Tomakomai Port (about 1.5-2 hours from Sapporo)
Ferry Schedule
The Sunflower Ferry runs twice daily:
Evening ferry: 7:30 PM - 1:30 PM the next day
Best choice for travelers - gives you a proper night's rest and a full day ahead.
Late-night ferry: 1:45 AM - 7:45 PM the same day
Feels longer and a bit rough if you're not a night owl.
Each ride lasts about 18 hours, so you'll definitely want to treat it like a one-night cruise.
Cabin Options & Prices
There's something for every budget:
- Shared rooms with floor beds (Japanese-style)- $132
- Shared bunk bed rooms- $152
- Private rooms with ocean-view windows- $209
- Suite-style cabins (if you want to get fancy)- $240
You can even bring your car, motorbike, or bicycle on board - perfect if you're planning a self-drive trip around Hokkaido.
How to Get There (and After)
From Tokyo to Oarai Port:
Take the JR Joban Line or a highway bus from Tokyo Station - around 2 hours.
From Tomakomai Port to Sapporo:
Hop on a local train or bus, and you'll reach Sapporo in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
So... Should You Take the Ferry?
To be honest, for most travelers, this isn't the most convenient or comfortable way to go - especially if it's your first time in Japan. The whole door-to-door journey takes well over 24 hours, and you'll need to deal with getting to and from both ports.
That said, if you've got time, love the sea, or want to try something different - this is a fun and scenic adventure that you won't forget.
Otherwise? Stick with a quick flight, or enjoy the scenic Shinkansen + Limited Express combo. They're faster, easier, and much more tourist-friendly.
Tokyo to Sapporo by Road - 2+ Days, Not Recommended
Yes, you can drive from Tokyo to Sapporo. But should you? Probably not, unless you're a hardcore road tripper or doing it for the story.
Here's the deal: Tokyo and Sapporo are over 1,000 km (600+ miles) apart. And this isn't a straight shot - because, you know, there's a whole sea between Honshu and Hokkaido.
So to drive from Tokyo to Sapporo, you'll need to:
- Drive all the way up northern Honshu(Aomori area)
- Catch a car ferryacross the Tsugaru Strait (Aomori → Hakodate)
- Keep driving another 300+ km to Sapporo
It's a multi-day journey, and not a relaxing one.
So unless you've got serious time, a reason to drive, or just love long hauls... we don't recommend driving from Tokyo to Sapporo. There are way better ways to go. Contact Asia Odyssey Travel to help make your decision.
Quick FAQs about Tokyo to Sapporo Transportation Guide
- What's the fastest way to get from Tokyo to Sapporo?
Flying is the fastest. The flight takes about 1.5 hours, and even with airport transfers, you can get from Tokyo to Sapporo in about 2-3 hours total.
- Can I use the Japan Rail Pass to get to Sapporo?
Yes! The JR Pass covers both the Hokkaido Shinkansen (Tokyo → Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto) and the Limited Express train to Sapporo. It's a great value if you're using the pass for other trips too.
- Is there a sleeper train between Tokyo and Sapporo?
Unfortunately, no. The famous overnight trains like Cassiopeia and Hokutosei were discontinued.
But hey - there's a sleeper ferry instead!
- Is the ferry from Tokyo to Sapporo comfortable?
Surprisingly, yes! The Sunflower Ferry has clean cabins, lounges, public baths, and ocean views. It's slow (18 hours), but feels more like a mini cruise than basic transport.
- Can I drive from Tokyo to Sapporo?
You can - but we don't recommend it unless you 're on a long road trip. The drive takes 2+ days, includes a car ferry, and costs quite a bit in gas and tolls.
- Which Tokyo airport should I fly from - Haneda or Narita?
Haneda is closer to central Tokyo and has more daily flights to Sapporo.
Narita often has cheaper fares, especially on budget airlines.
If you 're already in Tokyo, Haneda is easier. If you're connecting from an international flight, Narita might make more sense.
- How far is Sapporo from New Chitose Airport?
About 53 km. The JR Rapid Airport Train takes 35-40 minutes to get you to Sapporo Station. Super easy.
- What's the most scenic option?
Definitely the Shinkansen + Limited Express train combo. You'll pass through the Tohoku region, zip through the Seikan undersea tunnel, and enjoy stunning views across rural Hokkaido.
Places You Should not Miss in Sapporo After Arrival
Sapporo has a great mix of city vibes, culture, and nature. Here are the top places Asia Odyssey Travel suggested to visit:
Odori Park - A long, green strip right through the city center. Great for a stroll, festivals, and photo ops.
Sapporo TV Tower - At the eastern end of Odori Park. Head up for a nice city view.
Sapporo Beer Museum - Learn the story behind Japan's famous beer, and yes, there are tastings.
Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb) - If you're visiting in winter, this is the main event! Massive snow and ice sculptures all over the city.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street - Covered arcade full of shops, snacks, souvenirs, and quirky finds.
Mt. Moiwa Ropeway - Take the cable car for an amazing night view of Sapporo.
Sapporo Ramen Yokocho - A narrow alley lined with ramen shops - this is the birthplace of Sapporo's famous miso ramen.
Bonus: If you have time, day trips to Otaru or hot springs in Jozankei are also popular and easy from the city.
Travel to Sapporo & Hokkaido with Local-Based Asia Odyssey Travel
Planning a trip from Tokyo to Sapporo can feel like a lot, flights, trains, ferries, transfers… where do you even start? That's where we come in.
Asia Odyssey Travel is your local friend in Japan, and yes, that includes Sapporo! Whether you want a quick city hop by plane, a scenic ride on the Shinkansen, or a slow, dreamy ferry across the sea, we'll help you pick the route that fits your style, time, and budget.
And once you're in Sapporo, we can help you: get tickets for the Snow Festival; plan day trips to Otaru, Noboribetsu, or Asahiyama Zoo, or just figure out how to get from the airport to your hotel without stress.
We also offer affordiable Hokkaido Tour Packages that already cover the transportation from Tokyo to Sapporo. Let us handle the details, so you can just focus on having fun.
Reach out anytime, we're happy to help! Your Japan adventure starts here, and we'll make sure it's smooth, scenic, and unforgettable.
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
Data in submission...
