JR Hokkaido Rail Passes
JR Hokkaido train tickets offer travelers a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Japan's northernmost island. It is designed for tourists, these passes entitle you to unlimited travel on JR Hokkaido trains, including limited express and local trains, during the validity period. With various options such as 4-day, 5-day, 7-day, and flexible 10-day tickets, you can choose the one that best suits your itinerary. Whether you're planning to visit Sapporo, Hakodate, or the scenic countryside, JR Hokkaido train tickets make it easy to experience the beauty and diversity of Hokkaido.
JR Hokkaido Rail Passes Price & Duration
This rail pass is available only for foreign visitors who enter Japan with a non-Japanese passport under the entry status of “Temporary Visitor”.
| Name | Duration | Adult Price (JPY) | Child Price (JPY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo-Furano Area Pass | 4 days | ¥10,000 | ¥5,000 |
| Sapporo-Noboribetsu Area Pass | 4 days | ¥9,000 | ¥4,500 |
| Hokkaido Rail Pass | 5 days | ¥20,000 | ¥10,000 |
| Hokkaido Rail Pass | 7 days | ¥26,000 | ¥13,000 |
| Hokkaido Rail Pass | 10 days | ¥32,000 | ¥16,000 |
JR Hokkaido Pass Coverage
JR Hokkaido covers the northern region of Japan, including the island of Hokkaido. This region is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and national parks.
It covers the following cities: Sapporo, Hakodate, Asahikawa, Otaru, Furano, Noboribetsu, Abashiri, Kushiro, Obihiro, Wakkanai, Muroran, Tomakomai, Kitami, and Biei.
JR Hokkaido covers the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which currently runs from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Shin-Aomori. Services are primarily provided by the Hayabusa trains. Future extensions will expand the line to Sapporo.
This rail pass covers travel on the following trains:
- Hayabusa Train: the primary high-speed service, connecting Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto with Shin-Aomori and continuing to Tokyo.
- Hayate Train: occasionally operates on the Hokkaido Shinkansen, primarily during peak travel times or for specific services on the Tohoku Shinkansen.
Other Limited express trains and local trains serve destinations in Hokkaido, providing vital transport links on the island. For example, Super Hokuto, Super Ozora, and Super Soya.
JR Hokkaido includes major lines such as the Hakodate Main Line, the Chitose Line, and the Nemuro Main Line, Soya Main Line.
Popular Routes Covered by JR Hokkaido
- Sapporo to Hakodate: The Hakodate Line covers this route, connecting the two major cities of Sapporo and Hakodate.
- Sapporo to Asahikawa (Hakodate Line to Asahikawa): The route from Sapporo to Asahikawa is also part of the Hakodate Line.
- Sapporo to Otaru (Hakodate Line): This short route is entirely on the Hakodate Line, connecting Sapporo to the nearby coastal city of Otaru.
- Sapporo to Furano (Hakodate Line to Takikawa, then Nemuro Line): To travel from Sapporo to Furano, take the Hakodate Line to Takikawa and then transfer to the Nemuro Line.
- Sapporo to Kushiro (Chitose Line to Minami-Chitose, then Sekisho Line and Nemuro Line): This route starts on the Chitose Line to Minami-Chitose and continues on the Sekisho and Nemuro Line to reach Kushiro.
How to Book And Use JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
- Book the desired JR Pass:
- Select the specific Rail Pass, its type (Adult or Child), class, and the duration;
- During checkout, ensure that you enter the correct personal information, including the passenger names as they appear on their passports.
- Receive the QR code:
- After purchasing the JR Pass, you will receive an e-ticket voucher (QR Code) via email.
- Exchange the QR code for the actual Rail Pass:
- In Japan, visit a JR Pass exchange office and present your voucher, along with your passport, to receive the actual JR Pass. Exchange offices are located at major airports, railway stations, or designated tourist centers;
- Another way is to use a ticketing machine at every major JR station.
Seat reservation for JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Passholders can make seat reservations for limited express and ordinary express trains at no additional cost. This is one of the key benefits of the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass.
How to reserve seats:
- At ticket offices: visit any JR Hokkaido ticket office or Green Window to reserve your seats. Provide your pass and specify the train, date, and travel time.
- Ticket machines: use JR Hokkaido's ticket machines with reservation functions. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your train and seat. Insert your pass to complete the reservation.
- Online: some JR Hokkaido passes may allow online seat reservations through the official JR Hokkaido website or mobile app. Check the specific terms and conditions of your pass for availability.
How to Refund the JR Hokkaido Pass?
If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please visit the 12Go Support page. When contacting support, ensure you have your booking number ready for a quicker resolution.
Ensure that the pass has not been activated or used. Refunds are typically only available if the pass has not been used. Refunds are not provided in cases of train delays or non-operations.
Customer Support for JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Visit JR Hokkaido ticket offices or service centers at major stations. Call JR Hokkaido Customer Service Hotline: +81-11-222-7111 (available from 9:00 to 17:00 JST).
Visit the official JR Hokkaido website or email info@jrhokkaido.co.jp. If you have problems with your JR Hokkaido tickets, please contact the 12Go support team.
Travel Tips with JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Check the timetable: check the train schedules, especially for Shinkansen and limited express trains. This will help you avoid waiting for extended periods at the train station.
Avoid peak travel times: Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (late December to early January) are the peak travel times. Avoid weekday mornings (7:30 AM to 9:00 AM) and evenings (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM) in metropolitan areas like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Saitama.
Luggage restrictions: Luggage should not exceed 160cm (total height, width, and depth) and 30 kg (weight limit). Some trains have designated spaces for large luggage; reserve these spaces in advance if needed.
JR Hokkaido Pass FAQ
Do I Need a JR Pass for Hokkaido?
Yes, if you're visiting multiple cities like Sapporo, Hakodate, Furano, and Asahikawa, the pass offers unlimited travel and can be cost-effective.
Which JR Pass from Tokyo to Hokkaido?
The JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass is ideal for travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido. It covers the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori and the Hokkaido Shinkansen from Shin-Aomori to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.
What do I need to obtain a JR Hokkaido Pass?
You must be a foreign tourist with a "Temporary Visitor" visa to obtain a JR Hokkaido Pass. You can purchase it online through the official JR Hokkaido website or from major JR Hokkaido stations and New Chitose Airport. You can activate the pass in Japan at a JR Hokkaido service counter or ticket office by showing your passport.