Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost and second-largest island, renowned for its pristine wilderness, world-class powder snow, and vibrant seasonal beauty. From the lavender-carpeted fields of Furano to the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido offers Japan's most dramatic natural landscapes alongside excellent seafood and dairy cuisine.
Hokkaido's transport network centres on Sapporo and radiates outward via JR Hokkaido rail lines and highway bus networks. The island is large — roughly the size of Austria — meaning travel between regions takes time. Sapporo's city subway, tram, and bus network is excellent. Car hire is essential for visiting national parks, Furano-Biei, Shiretoko, and most rural areas. The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass (purchased outside Japan) is the most cost-effective way to travel between Hokkaido's cities. New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo handles most international and domestic flights.
Transport at a glance
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Hokkaido is Japan's largest and most spread-out prefecture. New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo is the main international and domestic gateway. JR Hokkaido's train network connects major cities, while highway buses extend coverage to rural towns. Car rental is strongly recommended for exploring national parks, flower fields, and coastal areas. In winter, roads require winter tyres and cautious driving.
Airports
New Chitose Airport
Sapporo Okadama Airport
Hakodate Airport
Asahikawa Airport
Memanbetsu Airport
Kushiro Airport
Wakkanai Airport
Rishiri Airport
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass before arriving in Japan — the domestic counter price is significantly higher than pre-departure prices through overseas agents
The Hokkaido Rail Pass (3-day ¥12,000, 5-day ¥17,000, 7-day ¥22,000) covers all JR limited express trains between major cities including Sapporo–Hakodate–Asahikawa–Noboribetsu
Purchase a Kitaca or Suica IC card at Sapporo Station for seamless payment on Sapporo subway, buses, and local JR trains — no ticket queuing required
Car hire in Hokkaido is cheaper than mainland Japan — essential for Furano, Biei, Shiretoko, and Cape Kamui. Winter tyres mandatory November–April (included in all rental cars)
Winter driving requires extra preparation: black ice forms at dawn and dusk without visual warning. Check road conditions on the Hokkaido Government Road Information System before mountain drives
Highway buses (Hokkaido Chuo Bus, Donan Bus) are 30–50% cheaper than JR limited express for some routes — particularly useful for Furano, Noboribetsu, and Kushiro
The Sapporo subway day pass (¥830) covers unlimited rides on all three subway lines — excellent value for full-day Sapporo city exploration
Luggage forwarding (takkyubin) services (Yamato Transport, Sagawa) send bags hotel-to-hotel for ¥1,000–2,500 — highly recommended for ski travellers and multi-city itineraries