Niseko, a vast area made up of five towns surrounding the Niseko mountain range, is visited by many tourists from both Japan and overseas who want to enjoy one of the world's leading winter resorts. There are several ways to travel from Sapporo to the Niseko area, including JR trains, buses, and rental cars. We will introduce details on each option, including travel times and fares.

JR is the standard way to travel between Sapporo and Niseko

The standard way to travel from Sapporo to the Niseko area is by JR. To travel from JR Sapporo Station to the Niseko area, first travel from JR Sapporo Station to JR Otaru Station, then transfer at JR Otaru Station to head to the Niseko area (Kutchan Station, Niseko Station, Rankoshi Station).

Travel time from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station is approximately 33 minutes if you use the Rapid Airport train, or approximately 45 minutes if you use a local train. The travel time from Otaru Station to each station is approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to Kutchan Station, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to Niseko Station, and approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to Rankoshi Station. The fare from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station is 2,240 yen, 2,530 yen to Niseko Station, and 3,080 yen to Rankoshi Station. JR trains from Otaru Station to Niseko run infrequently, so it's a good idea to check the timetable in advance.

Another classic! Buses that take you close to your destination

Many people use express buses and local buses to travel between Sapporo and the Niseko area. If you travel by JR, you will need transportation from the station to the ski resort, but depending on your destination, it is possible to travel directly by bus.

Hokkaido Chuo Bus "Express Niseko"

You can board the "Express Niseko-go" operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus from Bus Stop No. 1 on the west side of "Kita 3-jo Square (Akapla)", about a 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station. The "Express Niseko-go" is a route that makes three round trips a day between JR Sapporo Station and Otaru, as well as the Niseko area. The journey from Sapporo to Niseko takes about 3 hours, and the one-way fare is 2,560 yen. (*Prices may be cheaper than the listed price depending on the stop you get off at)

This bus also stops at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station and Annupuri Ski Resort, so if there's a bus stop near your destination, it's convenient to use this bus. You can also get off at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station and transfer to a local bus to access various destinations in the Niseko area.

Be careful when driving on winter roads (Cars and Rental Cars)

Of course, you can also travel to the Niseko area by car or rental car. If you're heading from Sapporo, you can reach the Niseko area in about two hours via National Route 230. Even if you use the expressway to get to Niseko, it's a longer route, so the arrival time won't change much. The travel time will be shorter, but the problem is driving on winter roads. If you're not used to it, don't push yourself too hard and use the JR or bus, and enjoy your trip with safety as your top priority.

Enjoy your trip with the transportation that suits you best

The Niseko area is not only home to winter ski resorts, but also to hot springs and delicious restaurants. Why not find the perfect trip for you based on your travel plans and budget?

*All information listed is current as of September 2025. *All published information may be subject to change, so please check the official website for details.