Sapporo

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Subway

The Sapporo subway network is an efficient and reliable way to travel within the city, with three major lines connecting key areas.

Sections

Overview of the Sapporo Subway System

The Sapporo Subway is the fourth-largest subway system in Japan and consists of three color-coded lines that cover the city and its surrounding areas. It is operated by the Sapporo City Transportation Bureau.

  1. Namboku Line (Green Line)

    • Runs north-south.
    • Key stations: Sapporo Station, Odori Station, Nakajima-Koen Station.
    • Connects residential areas to the city center.

  2. Tozai Line (Orange Line)

    • Runs east-west.
    • Key stations: Odori Station, Maruyama-Koen Station, Miyanosawa Station.
    • Serves popular attractions like Maruyama Zoo and Hokkaido Shrine.

  3. Toho Line (Blue Line)

    • Runs northeast-southwest.
    • Key stations: Sapporo Station, Odori Station, Fukuzumi Station.
    • Connects to the Sapporo Dome and other suburban areas.

All three lines intersect at Odori Station, the central hub of the subway system, making it a key transfer point.

Route Maps

  • Subway maps are available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, and are displayed prominently at all stations.
  • You can also download a digital map from the official Sapporo City Transportation Bureau website or use navigation apps like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner, which integrate subway routes.

Operational Hours

  • First trains: Around 6:00 AM.
  • Last trains: Around 11:50 PM.
  • Trains run every 5โ€“7 minutes during peak hours and every 7โ€“10 minutes during off-peak hours.

Ticketing Options and Costs

The Sapporo Subway offers several ticketing options to suit different travel needs:

  1. Single Tickets

    • Fares range from 200 to 380 yen, depending on the distance traveled.
    • Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at all stations.

  2. IC Cards (Recommended for Visitors)

    • SAPICA: Sapporoโ€™s local IC card, which can also be used on buses and trams in the city.
    • Other IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA are also accepted.
    • IC cards offer a small discount compared to single tickets and eliminate the need to calculate fares.

  3. Day Passes

    • Donichika Ticket: Unlimited rides on the subway for 520 yen on weekends and public holidays.
    • One-Day Card: Unlimited rides on the subway for 830 yen on weekdays.
    • Combination Pass: Includes subway, bus, and tram rides for 1,100 yen.

  4. Discounted Tickets for Tourists

    • Sapporo Subway Tourist Pass: Unlimited subway rides for one day for 830 yen (requires a passport for purchase).

How to Purchase Tickets or Use IC Cards

  1. Ticket Vending Machines

    • Available in multiple languages (English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean).
    • Select your destination or fare, insert cash, and collect your ticket.

  2. Using IC Cards

    • Purchase an IC card at ticket counters or vending machines (500 yen deposit required).
    • Recharge the card at machines or convenience stores.
    • Tap the card on the reader at the ticket gate when entering and exiting.

Important Transfers

  • Odori Station: The main transfer hub connecting all three subway lines.
  • Sapporo Station: Connects the subway to JR trains, including the Hokkaido Shinkansen and airport express trains.
  • Bus and Tram Connections: Many subway stations, such as Susukino, offer easy transfers to the cityโ€™s tram and bus networks.

Accessibility Features

The Sapporo Subway is highly accessible for travelers with disabilities or mobility challenges:

  • Elevators and escalators are available at all stations.
  • Tactile paving guides are installed for visually impaired passengers.
  • Wheelchair-accessible ticket gates and restrooms are provided.
  • Announcements and signage are available in multiple languages.

Cultural and Practical Tips

  1. Queueing: Stand in line on the platform and allow passengers to exit the train before boarding.
  2. Quietness: Keep conversations low and avoid talking on the phone while on the train.
  3. Eating and Drinking: Avoid eating or drinking on the subway.
  4. Luggage: If youโ€™re carrying large luggage, use the designated spaces near the doors or avoid peak hours.
  5. Peak Hours: Morning rush (7:30โ€“9:00 AM) and evening rush (5:00โ€“7:00 PM) can be crowded.

Significant Local Sites Accessible via Subway

  1. Odori Park (Odori Station): A central park hosting seasonal events like the Sapporo Snow Festival.
  2. Sapporo TV Tower (Odori Station): Offers panoramic views of the city.
  3. Maruyama Zoo and Hokkaido Shrine (Maruyama-Koen Station, Tozai Line): Perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
  4. Sapporo Dome (Fukuzumi Station, Toho Line): A venue for sports and concerts.
  5. Susukino District (Susukino Station, Namboku Line): Sapporoโ€™s entertainment and nightlife hub.
  6. Shiroi Koibito Park (Miyanosawa Station, Tozai Line): A chocolate factory and theme park.
  7. Nakajima Park (Nakajima-Koen Station, Namboku Line): A serene park with a Japanese garden and cultural facilities.

Additional Tips for Planning Trips

  • Weather Considerations: Sapporo experiences heavy snowfall in winter, so the subway is a reliable alternative to walking or driving.
  • Language Support: Most station staff can assist in basic English, and signage is multilingual.
  • Apps: Use apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia for real-time navigation and train schedules.

The Sapporo Subway is an excellent way to explore the city efficiently and comfortably. With this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the system and make the most of your visit to Sapporo!