Traveling from Kyoto to Sapporo: A Comprehensive Guide with a Japan Rail Pass

Traveling from Kyoto to Sapporo with a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers a convenient and economical way to explore the vast Japanese island. This detailed guide will help you plan your journey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Travel Route

The journey from Kyoto to Sapporo involves three main legs, each with varying travel times and methods.

Kyoto to Osaka

The first leg of your journey is from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station by the JR Special Rapid Service. This leg of the journey is quick and takes approximately 30 minutes.

Osaka to Hakodate

From Osaka, you'll take the Shinkansen bullet train to Hakodate. You can use the Hikari or Kodama trains, both of which are covered under the JR Pass. This section of the journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the scenic views.

Hakodate to Sapporo

Traverse the Shiretoko Peninsula by transferring to the Limited Express Super Hokuto at Hakodate, which takes about 3.5 hours to reach Sapporo. This leg is the longest, but it's well worth the time for the stunning landscapes you'll encounter.

Total Travel Time

Including transfers, the total travel time is roughly 9 to 10 hours. However, with careful planning and seat reservations, you can make the most out of your journey.

Reservations

While the JR Pass covers free travel on these trains, it's advisable to make seat reservations, especially for the Shinkansen and Limited Express trains. You can book these reservations at any JR ticket office or online.

Alternative Option

For those seeking a direct route, you can also opt to take the Hokkaido Shinkansen from Shin-Aomori after traveling from Kyoto to Aomori to Hakodate. However, this option may take longer and require more transfers, making the ferry a more appealing choice for some.

Other Travel Options

For a unique and luxurious travel experience, take the ferry between Maizuru (near Kyoto) and Otaru in Hokkaido. While this ferry is not covered by the JR Pass, it offers the advantage of saving on a hotel for a night and provides a memorable journey during the ferry ride.

Expert Tips

Several travel experts and enthusiasts suggest that the train is a convenient option, despite the long travel time. They recommend making seat reservations and embracing the journey's leisurely pace. Some travelers choose to take the ferry for its luxury and the exclusive opportunities to meet interesting people.

While some experts prefer the ferry as it takes 24 hours but offers luxury, a flight is recommended for those short on time. The ferry offers a different experience, with more time to relax and explore the scenery, and it includes a enjoyable bath. The costs are similar, but the experience is distinctly different.