Niseko, which attracts many tourists from Japan and abroad to enjoy one of the world's leading winter resorts, is a vast area consisting of five towns around the Niseko mountain range. There are several ways to get to the Niseko area from Sapporo, including JR, bus, and rental car. Here are details on travel time and fees for each.

"JR" is the standard method of travel between Sapporo and Niseko

JR is the standard way to travel from Sapporo to the Niseko area. to get to the Niseko area from JR Sapporo Station, first go to JR Otaru Station and change trains at JR Otaru Station to go to the Niseko area (Kutchan Station, Niseko Station and Ranketsu Station).

Travel time from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station is approximately 33 minutes by "Rapid Airport" train. It takes about 45 minutes by regular train. And the time from Otaru Station to each station is about 1 hour and 10 minutes to Kutchan Station, about 1 hour and 45 minutes to Niseko Station, and about 2 hours and 10 minutes to Ranketsu Station. The fare from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station is 2,100 yen, to Niseko Station 2,420 yen, and to Ranketsu Station 2,860 yen. JR trains from Otaru Station to Niseko are infrequent, so it is recommended to check the time in advance.

Another classic! "Bus" that can take you near your destination.

Many travelers between Sapporo and Niseko use highway buses or local buses to get between Sapporo and the Niseko area.

Hokkaido Chuo Bus "Kosoku Niseko Go"

You can board the "Kosoku Niseko-go" bus operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus at the temporary bus stop No. 1 on the west side of Kita 3-jo Hiroba (Akapura), a 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station. The "Kosoku Niseko-go" runs three round trips a day between JR Sapporo Station, Otaru, and the Niseko area. The trip from Sapporo to Niseko takes about 3 hours and costs 2,350 yen one way. (*The price may be lower than the listed price depending on the stop where you get off.)

This bus also stops at Michi no Eki Niseko View Plaza and Annupuri Ski Resort, so if there is a bus stop near your destination, it is convenient to use this bus. In addition, you can get off at "Michi no Eki Niseko View Plaza" and transfer to a local bus to access various areas of the Niseko area.

Hokkaido Chuo Bus "Sapporo - Niseko" Route

Another bus option is the reservation-only "Sapporo - Niseko Route" also operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus. The fare is 5,000 yen and all vehicles are equipped with a toilet. Tickets can be purchased at the Sapporo Station Window in front of the North Exit of the West Concourse of Sapporo Station on the day of boarding after making a reservation in advance, or by paying the fare in cash on board the bus.

Be careful when driving on winter roads "Cars and Rental Cars"

Of course, it is possible to travel to the Niseko area by car or rental car. If you are traveling from Sapporo, you can reach the Niseko area in approximately 2 hours via Route 230. The arrival time to Niseko will not be much different if you take the expressway, as it is a long way. The travel time is short, but the problem is driving on winter roads. If you are not used to driving on winter roads, take the JR or bus and enjoy your trip with safety first.

Enjoy your trip with the means of transportation that suits you best!

In addition to winter ski resorts, the Niseko area is dotted with hot springs and delicious restaurants in the surrounding area. Find your ideal trip according to your travel plans and budget.