Sapporo

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Trains

Sections

1. Overview of the Train Network in Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, has a well-organized and efficient train and subway system that makes it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The main train systems in Sapporo include:

A. Sapporo Subway System

The Sapporo Subway is the primary mode of urban transportation within the city. It consists of three lines:

  • Namboku Line (Green Line): Runs north-south.
  • Tozai Line (Orange Line): Runs east-west.
  • Toho Line (Blue Line): Runs northeast-southeast.

B. JR Hokkaido (Japan Railways Hokkaido)

JR Hokkaido operates regional and intercity trains, connecting Sapporo to other parts of Hokkaido. Key lines include:

  • Hakodate Main Line: Connects Sapporo to Otaru, Hakodate, and other cities.
  • Chitose Line: Connects Sapporo to New Chitose Airport and cities like Tomakomai.
  • Sassho Line (Gakuentoshi Line): Connects Sapporo to the northern suburbs.

C. Streetcars (Trams)

Sapporo also has a streetcar (tram) system that loops around the central and southwestern parts of the city. Itโ€™s useful for accessing areas not covered by the subway.

2. Costs and Ticketing

A. Subway Fares

  • Fares for the Sapporo Subway range from 200 to 400 yen, depending on the distance traveled.
  • Children (ages 6-11) pay half the adult fare, and children under 6 travel for free.

B. JR Hokkaido Fares

  • Fares vary based on distance and type of train (local, rapid, or limited express). For example:
    • Sapporo to Otaru: ~750 yen (one way, local train).
    • Sapporo to New Chitose Airport: ~1,150 yen (one way, rapid train).

C. Streetcar Fares

  • A flat fare of 210 yen for adults and 110 yen for children.

D. Discount Passes

  1. Sapporo Subway One-Day Pass:
    • Unlimited subway rides for one day.
    • Cost: 830 yen (adults), 420 yen (children).
  2. Donichika Ticket:
    • Unlimited subway rides on weekends and public holidays.
    • Cost: 520 yen (adults), 260 yen (children).
  3. JR Hokkaido Rail Pass:
    • Ideal for travelers exploring Hokkaido beyond Sapporo.
    • Options include 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day passes.
  4. Kitaca IC Card:
    • A rechargeable smart card for seamless travel on subways, JR trains, and buses in Sapporo and other cities in Japan.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Available at all subway and JR stations. Machines have English language options and accept cash and some cards.
  • Ticket Counters: Staffed counters at major stations like Sapporo Station and Odori Station.
  • Convenience Stores: Some passes, like the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, can be reserved online and picked up at convenience stores.
  • IC Cards (Kitaca): Purchase and recharge at ticket machines or counters.

4. Train Schedules

  • Subway: Trains run approximately every 5-7 minutes during peak hours and every 7-10 minutes during off-peak hours. Service starts around 6:00 AM and ends around 12:00 AM (midnight).
  • JR Trains: Local and rapid trains run frequently, but limited express trains may have specific departure times. Check schedules on the JR Hokkaido website or apps like Hyperdia or Google Maps.
  • Streetcars: Operate from around 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with trams arriving every 6-10 minutes.

5. Train Etiquette

Japanese train etiquette is important to follow. Here are some key points:

  • Queue Properly: Stand in line at the designated boarding areas on the platform.
  • Be Quiet: Avoid loud conversations or phone calls. Phones should be on silent mode.
  • Priority Seats: Reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children.
  • No Eating or Drinking: Eating is generally discouraged on local trains and subways, though itโ€™s acceptable on long-distance trains.
  • Keep Luggage Compact: Avoid blocking aisles or seats with large bags.
  • Exit Quickly: Step off the train to let others exit before boarding.

6. Tips for Visiting Local Sites Using the Train System

Sapporoโ€™s train system is an excellent way to explore the city and nearby attractions. Here are some popular destinations and how to reach them:

A. Odori Park

  • Access: Take the Namboku, Tozai, or Toho Line to Odori Station.
  • Tip: Odori Park is a central hub, and many events like the Sapporo Snow Festival are held here.

B. Sapporo Beer Museum

  • Access: Take the Toho Line to Higashi-Kuyakusho-Mae Station, then walk 10 minutes.
  • Tip: Admission is free, and you can enjoy beer tastings for a small fee.

C. Mount Moiwa

  • Access: Take the streetcar to Ropeway Iriguchi Station, then transfer to the Mount Moiwa Ropeway.
  • Tip: Visit in the evening for stunning views of Sapporoโ€™s city lights.

D. Otaru

  • Access: Take the JR Hakodate Main Line from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station (30-40 minutes).
  • Tip: Explore the Otaru Canal and enjoy fresh seafood at the local markets.

E. New Chitose Airport

  • Access: Take the JR Chitose Line from Sapporo Station to New Chitose Airport Station (35-40 minutes).
  • Tip: Arrive early to explore the airportโ€™s shopping and dining options, including Royce Chocolate World.

7. Considerations and Useful Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Use apps like Hyperdia, Google Maps, or Navitime to check train routes, schedules, and fares.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Morning (7:30-9:00 AM) and evening (5:00-7:00 PM) can be crowded, especially on weekdays.
  • Weather Preparedness: Sapporo experiences heavy snow in winter, but the train system is well-equipped to handle it. Allow extra time for travel during snowstorms.
  • Language Assistance: Most signs and ticket machines have English options, and station staff are generally helpful.
  • Cash is King: While IC cards are convenient, some ticket machines and smaller stations may only accept cash.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Sapporoโ€™s train system efficiently and enjoy all the city has to offer. Safe travels!