A must-read for anyone planning to attend a live concert or watch a sporting event at Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center (Hokkaido Kitayell), a large venue in Sapporo! We'll introduce you to access information by subway and bus, as well as recommended hotels around Sapporo Station, Odori, and Susukino, convenient for trips and overnight stays. This is a complete guide that's perfect for first-time visitors.

"Hokkai Kitayell" is a sports facility adjacent to Toyohira Park in Toyohira Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, and its official name is the Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center. The facility has multiple spaces, including a main arena, sub-arena, martial arts hall, and archery hall, and hosts a variety of events, including live music and concerts, as well as various sporting events. As a sports facility, it is also the home ground of Levanga Hokkaido of the B.League and Espolada Hokkaido of the F.League.

Although Hokkai Kitayell is a little far from downtown Sapporo, it is directly connected to the underground passage at Toyohira Koen Station on the Toho Subway Line, making it relatively easy to access compared to other large event facilities in Sapporo. The most common way to access it by public transport is via the Toho Subway Line, but there are also local buses from Sapporo Station and Shiroishi Station on the Tozai Subway Line, as well as an airport shuttle bus that connects New Chitose Airport with downtown Sapporo. We will provide detailed information on each access method.

Underground passage leading from Toyohira Park Station

Hokkai Kitayell is about a 5-minute walk from Toyohira Koen Station on the Toho Subway Line, the nearest station. Exit the ticket gate, turn left, and follow the underground passage to the underground entrance to Hokkai Kitayell. It's convenient because you can walk there without worrying about rain or snow. There is only one ticket gate at Toyohira Koen Station, and there are signs directing you to Kitayell, so even first-time visitors will be able to find their way there without getting lost.

Underground entrance to Kitakyushu Kitaeru

Toyohira Koen Station on the Toho Subway Line is four stops and about eight minutes from Sapporo Subway Station, which is a transfer station for the JR line; three stops and about six minutes from Odori Station; and two stops and about four minutes from Hosui-Susukino Station. From any of these stations, board a train bound for Fukuzumi. Many people coming from far away, such as outside of Hokkaido, will likely take the JR train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station. When heading from JR Sapporo Station to Toho Subway Line Sapporo Station, it is relatively convenient to transfer using the JR east ticket gate.

There are few ticket machines at Toyohira Koen Station, so it's a good idea to buy your return ticket in advance or charge your transportation IC card, such as SUICA, in advance. Also, along the Toho Line is the Daiwa House Premist Dome (Sapporo Dome), which, like Hokkai Kitayell, often hosts large events. If the dates of an event at this venue overlap, the Toho Line can be very crowded both on the way there and back. Make sure you charge your IC card well in advance.

"Sapporo Station" bus stop on the south side of "Sapporo Tokyu Department Store"

There are several bus routes that stop near Kitayell. They depart from Sapporo Station and Shiroishi Station on the Tozai Subway Line. The nearest bus stop is Toyohira 3-jo 10-chome, about a 5-minute walk from there. Buses departing from Sapporo Station are about a 16-minute ride from the Sapporo Ekimae bus stop. The Sapporo Ekimae bus stop is located south of the Sapporo Tokyu Department Store, a short distance from Sapporo Station. If transferring from the JR line, it's about a 10-minute walk from the ticket gate to the Sapporo Ekimae bus stop. However, considering transfer and travel times, the subway is faster and more convenient with frequent service. Bus access is best suited for those using Shiroishi Station on the Tozai Subway Line or those living nearby.

Many airport shuttle buses connecting New Chitose Airport and downtown Sapporo stop at Toyohira 3-jo 10-chome. They operate relatively frequently, roughly every 10 minutes during the day. This bus is convenient for those visiting the Dome from far away, such as outside of Hokkaido, for activities related to their favorite idols. However, Kitayell does not have coin lockers for storing suitcases, so if you're heading directly from the airport to the venue, this bus is best for those with minimal luggage. The last bus to stop at Toyohira 3-jo 10-chome is at 6 PM, so it cannot be used for returning from evening or night events. Furthermore, since this bus originates from downtown Sapporo and stops at various stops throughout the city, there's a risk that it may be full and you won't be able to board. While this bus may be convenient for those traveling from the airport, you should consider the end time of the event when returning.

There are several private lodging facilities within walking distance of Hokkai Kitaeru, but not many regular hotels. The most common way to get there is to take the Toho Line, get off at Sapporo Station, Odori Station, or Hosui-Susukino Station, and stay at a hotel near the station. However, after the event ends, the walkway to Toyohira Koen Station will be extremely crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can walk about 30 minutes to a hotel near Hosui-Susukino Station.

JR Sapporo Station

The area around JR Sapporo Station is the first place you should look, as it has good transportation access and a large number of hotels. Trains from New Chitose Airport arrive at JR Sapporo Station every 10 minutes during the day, and express trains from all over Hokkaido also depart here. It's very convenient, as you can leave your large luggage at the hotel until just before or after boarding or disembarking the JR train. Here are four recommended hotels in this area.

This high-rise hotel is adjacent to JR Sapporo Station and offers excellent access from the JR line. It combines high-quality guest rooms and a restaurant, and depending on the floor you can enjoy the night view of Sapporo. It is a top-class hotel when it comes to convenience and comfort.

The hotel is conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from the East Exit of JR Sapporo Station, and just a 1-minute walk from Sapporo Station on the Toho Subway Line. The hotel is directly connected to the hotel via an underground passage, making it convenient to get to regardless of the weather. The breakfast menu is popular for its wide selection.

The hotel's basement is directly connected to APIA, an underground shopping mall located between JR Sapporo Station and Sapporo Station on the Namboku Subway Line, so you can move around without worrying about the weather. It's also extremely convenient, as it's close to the station and the underground shopping mall, which is lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. The hotel's breakfast menu, which includes soup curry and seafood bowls, is highly rated.

It is about an 8-minute walk from the East ticket gate of JR Sapporo Station, but only a 1-minute walk from Exit 21 of Sapporo Station on the Toho Subway Line. It is also about a 7-minute walk from the Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo TV Tower, making it convenient for those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Sapporo. The hotel also has a large public bath, so it is recommended for those who want to relax.

Odori Park

The area around Odori Subway Station is also convenient for those using the Hokkai Kitayell. It's close to Odori Park and Tanukikoji Shopping Street, making it convenient for sightseeing and shopping, and is within walking distance of Sapporo Station and the Susukino shopping district. It's roughly a 10-minute walk from Sapporo Station, but if traveling with large luggage is difficult, consider using the subway. It's just one stop and about one minute from Sapporo Station to Odori Station on the Toho Line or Namboku Line. Here are five recommended hotels around Odori Station.

Facing Odori Park, the hotel is in a prime location with the Sapporo TV Tower right in front of you. The hotel is also extremely convenient, with the underground mall entrance leading to the subway right in front of the hotel. The lounge overlooking Odori Park and the rooftop wooden deck are often used for bonfires, outdoor theaters, and music events, making the stay itself even more enjoyable.

The hotel is easily accessible, just a two-minute walk from Exit 35, near the Toho Line platform at Odori Subway Station. It's also just a two- or three-minute walk from Tanukikoji Shopping Street and Nijo Market, and just a three- to five-minute walk from Susukino, where many restaurants are open at night. The hotel's appeal lies in its convenient location and relatively reasonable prices.

It is about a one-minute walk from Exit 34, close to the Toho Line platform at Odori Subway Station. It is also close to Odori Park, Nijo Market, Tanukikoji Shopping Street, and other attractions, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Sapporo while visiting Hokkai Kitayell.

The hotel is conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from Odori Station on the subway, and just a few minutes from Hosui-Susukino Station. Tanukikoji Shopping Street and Susukino are also just a 2-minute walk away, allowing you to enjoy Sapporo's unique dining, shopping, and nightlife. There's also a large public bath on the top floor of the hotel.

It's about a 7-minute walk from the exit closest to the Toho Line subway platform, but it's also easily accessible with only a 3-5 minute walk from Odori Station or Susukino Station on the Namboku Line subway. Furthermore, it's located just above ground level, just a short escalator away from the underground passage and shopping mall that connects Sapporo Station to Susukino Station, so you can get there without getting wet even in the rain or snow. Facing Tanukikoji Shopping Street, it's easy to find great places to shop and eat.

Susukino

For those who want to enjoy Sapporo's gourmet food and nightlife, the area around Susukino, Hokkaido's largest downtown, is recommended. In particular, the area around Hosui-Susukino Station on the Toho Subway Line is not only conveniently accessible by subway, but also has the advantage of being just a 30-minute walk from Hokkai Kitaeru. Here are five recommended hotels that are both within walking distance and by subway.

It's conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Hosui-Susukino Station on the Toho Subway Line. It's also just under a 30-minute walk from Hokkai Kitaeru, making it one of the closest hotels in the Susukino area. While it's a little far from downtown Susukino, you can still reach the area in just five or six minutes. There are separate saunas for men and women, as well as private saunas where you can enjoy self-loyly.

Although it is a little far from the downtown Susukino area, it is only a 3-minute walk from Hosui-Susukino Station on the subway. With reasonable prices in the Susukino area, it is the perfect hotel for those looking to keep their accommodation costs down.

Located in the heart of the entertainment district, this hotel is easily accessible, just a 3-5 minute walk from Hosui-Susukino and Susukino subway stations. This hotel chain is famous for offering comfortable sleep at relatively affordable prices.

This hotel has a large natural hot spring bath like a resort hotel. It is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Hosui-Susukino Station on the Toho Subway Line and a 3-minute walk from Nakajima Koen Station on the Namboku Subway Line. It is also just a 3-minute walk from a corner of Susukino's downtown area, so it is recommended for those who want to enjoy access, nightlife, and relaxation at the hotel.

Located in the heart of the downtown area, it is easily accessible, just a 1-minute walk from Hosui-Susukino Station on the Toho Subway Line and a 3-minute walk from Susukino Station on the Namboku Subway Line. Despite being located in the downtown area, it also has a large public bath and an open-air bath, which is an added attraction.

When large events such as sporting events or concerts are held at Kitayell, accommodations in Sapporo and the surrounding area become extremely crowded. Once the event is decided, it is important to check hotel availability and make reservations as soon as possible, taking into consideration the location and public transportation. Enjoy smooth travel and a comfortable hotel stay so you can fully enjoy your event!

*All information listed is current as of July 2025. *Each event may be subject to change or cancellation, so please check the official website before participating.

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