Tomamu, home to one of Hokkaido's premier ski resorts, is an area where you can enjoy the ski slopes in winter and outdoor activities in its great nature during the summer. There are several ways to get from Sapporo to Tomamu, including JR trains, buses, and rental cars. Here's a detailed guide to each option, including travel times and costs.

The Standard Choice: JR Train with Special Discount Tickets

The JR train is the classic way to travel from Sapporo to Tomamu. The journey on the Limited Express Ozora or Limited Express Tokachi takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. All seats on these trains are reserved. A reserved seat costs 5,880 yen, and a Green Car (first class) seat is 8,150 yen.

Please be aware that according to the latest timetable, the evening Ozora No. 12 (bound for Sapporo) and Tokachi No. 9 (bound for Obihiro) do not stop at Tomamu Station. If you plan to travel late, be sure to check the most up-to-date schedule.

Save with Ekinet's "Toku-da-ne" Discount Tickets

You can get a great deal by booking your JR ticket to Shintoku Station, the station after Tomamu, through the "Ekinet" website. While the "Toku-da-ne" discount isn't available for tickets to Tomamu Station itself, you can purchase a discounted ticket to Shintoku and simply get off at Tomamu, the stop before. This trick allows you to ride for less than the standard fare. If you know your travel time in advance, booking through Ekinet is highly recommended.

Direct from Sapporo City: The Express Bus

*Photo for illustrative purposes.

During the winter season, you can book the "Tomamu Resort Liner" (express bus), operated by Hokkaido Access Network, for direct travel from Sapporo to Tomamu. To ride the Resort Liner, you'll need to meet at your reserved boarding location. The trip from Sapporo to Tomamu takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a one-way fare ranging from 7,000 to 8,800 yen (*1). Reservations and advance payment via phone or web are required.

*1: As of April 2026, the green season fare is 7,000 yen (adult). Prices fluctuate during the winter ski season, so be sure to confirm when booking.

Drive with Caution in Winter: Car/Rental Car

If you're driving from central Sapporo to Tomamu using the expressway, take the Do-O Expressway from Sapporo-minami IC, switch to the Doto Expressway at Chitose-Eniwa JCT, and get off at the Tomamu IC. The distance is about 125 kilometers, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, and the toll is 3,380 yen. Note that there are no gas stations with regular hours in the Tomamu area and only one on the Doto Expressway. It's wise to travel with a full tank, refueling before getting on the Doto Expressway or near Obihiro, Furano, or Yubari.

While a car offers the convenience of direct travel, be extremely cautious on winter roads. If you're not accustomed to driving in snowy conditions, it's better to opt for public transportation like JR trains or buses. Prioritize safety to fully enjoy your trip.

Choose Your Ride and Enjoy the Journey

Tomamu in winter is a resort area where you can enjoy not only winter sports but also delicious food and beautiful snowy landscapes. Whether you're looking for an active getaway or a relaxing retreat, you'll find your perfect way to have fun. Why not plan the ideal trip that fits your travel style and budget?

*All information is current as of April 2026.
*All information is subject to change. Please check official websites for the latest details.