JR PASS: Hokkaido Rail Pass
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JR PASS: Hokkaido Rail Pass
Next available dates
Today
21 Mar
Sun
22 Mar
Mon
23 Mar
Highlights
Unlock the breathtaking landscapes of Japan’s northernmost island with the Hokkaido Rail Pass. This cost-effective travel essential offers unlimited rides across Hokkaido’s scenic rail networks, connecting you to vibrant cities and serene natural wonders. Whether you are heading to the bustling streets of Sapporo or the historic canals of Otaru, this pass ensures a seamless and flexible journey. Explore and travel around Hokkaido in Japan with ease! Enjoy unlimited JR train and bus rides for 4, 5 or 7 consecutive days with the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass.
About the JR Hokkaido Pass:
The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass offers unlimited travel for 5, 7, or 10 days on all JR Hokkaido train lines, including limited express, special rapid, and rapid trains. Travel at your own pace with access to both reserved and non-reserved seats, and enjoy rides on designated JR buses within the region. Please note that this pass excludes the Hokkaido Shinkansen, South Hokkaido Railway, streetcars, and subways - for example, the Sapporo Subway, which requires an IC card.
Suggested Hokkaido Rail Pass Itinerary
Here’s a relaxed and fun 5-day Hokkaido Rail Pass itinerary to get you started:
- Day 1: Explore Sapporo
- Kick off your trip to Sapporo! Wander around the city and check out the Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, and the Sapporo Beer Museum.
- Don’t forget to try Hokkaido’s famous miso ramen for dinner - it’s the perfect welcome meal!
- Day 2: Take a Day Trip to Otaru
- Hop on a quick train to Otaru, a charming spot with a pretty canal, glass workshops, and super fresh seafood.
- Enjoy a peaceful stroll along Otaru Canal and visit the quirky Otaru Music Box Museum.
- Day 3: Head to Furano & Biei for Gorgeous Scenery
- Make your way to Furano for vibrant flower fields (especially beautiful in spring/summer) and epic landscapes.
- Don’t miss Biei’s Blue Pond and Shikisai no Oka - they’re perfect for photos!
- Day 4: Discover Asahikawa
- Head over to Asahikawa to visit the popular Asahiyama Zoo, where you can see penguins and polar bears.
- While you’re there, try Asahikawa’s famous soy sauce ramen at the Ramen Village - it’s a must!
- Day 5: Unwind in Noboribetsu Onsen
- Finish your trip with a relaxing visit to Noboribetsu Onsen.
- Explore the dramatic landscapes of Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and treat yourself to a soothing onsen soak before heading back to Sapporo.
Enjoy all JR Hokkaido Lines:
1. Hokkaido Rail Pass (Green)
- Covers all JR train lines across Hokkaido (except the Hokkaido Shinkansen).
- Best for long-distance travellers exploring multiple cities in Hokkaido.
- Great if you're visiting Sapporo, Hakodate, Asahikawa, Furano, Abashiri, Kushiro, and more.
2. Sapporo–Furano Area Pass (Purple)
- Covers routes between Sapporo, Furano, Biei, Asahikawa, and New Chitose Airport.
- Ideal for central Hokkaido travel and visiting popular sightseeing areas like flower fields in Furano and Biei.
3. Sapporo–Noboribetsu Area Pass (Orange)
- Covers routes from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, including Otaru, New Chitose Airport, Tomakomai, and Shiraoi.
- Perfect for short trips from Sapporo and visiting hot spring towns like Noboribetsu.
- Unlimited Rail Travel: Enjoy limitless rides on JR Hokkaido Lines, including limited express, rapid, and local trains.
- Flexible Pass Options: Choose from 4, 5, 7, or 10-day passes tailored to your specific itinerary and travel needs.
- Scenic Destinations: Effortlessly visit top spots like Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa, Hakodate, and the stunning Furano area.
- Reserved Seating Included: Access reserved and non-reserved seats in ordinary cars for a comfortable and stress-free journey.
- Convenient Bus Access: Use your pass on selected JR Hokkaido bus routes to reach even more local attractions.
What's included
INCLUDED
Unlimited rides on JR Hokkaido Lines (excluding Hokkaido Shinkansen)
Reserved and non-reserved seats in ordinary cars of limited express trains
Reserved and non-reserved seats of special rapid and rapid trains
Local trains on JR Hokkaido Line
Some JR Hokkaido buses (for Hokkaido Rail Pass holders)
Access to temporary trains (limited express/rapid/local)
NOT INCLUDED
Hokkaido Shinkansen and South Hokkaido Railway
Sapporo streetcars and subways
Personal expenses
SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train reserved seat ticket (surcharge applies)
First-class (Green Car) charges
Customer reviews
Review summary
Powered by AIThe JR PASS: Hokkaido Rail Pass is praised for its ease of redemption and value, especially when purchased through Pelago. Customers appreciate the seamless exchange process at JR stations using a QR code and passport, with helpful staff assisting in seat reservations. The pass offers unlimited travel to popular destinations like Otaru, Noboribetsu, and Hakodate, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for exploring Hokkaido. Overall, users highly recommend it for its convenience and savings.
Additional information
Operating Hours
- Redemption is only available during the operating hours of the designated JR Ticket Counters.
- Business hours vary by station; please check the official station list for details.
Must Know
- Starting 16 March 2024, certain Limited Express trains (Hokuto, Suzuran, Ōzora, Tokachi) are reserved seating only.
- The pass is on a real-name registration system and is non-transferable.
- If you travel outside the valid area of your specific pass, you must pay the additional basic fare.
- Reserved seats must be obtained at a ticket machine or counter before boarding for specific express services.
- View the Ticket Machine Manual for seat reservations.
- For bus route details, refer to the JR Hokkaido Bus Map.
Eligibility
- Only valid for non-Japanese passport holders.
- The name on the booking must match the romanized name in your passport exactly.
- Adult tickets apply to ages 12 and above.
Child Policy
- Child tickets apply to ages 6–11.
- Children under 6 travel free if they do not occupy a seat (limit 1 free child per adult).
- A child pass is required if a child under 6 requires a reserved seat or travels alone.
What to Bring
- Original valid passport (copies or residence cards are not accepted).
- Mobile or printed e-voucher with QR code.
Accessibility
- Most major JR stations and limited express trains are wheelchair accessible and equipped with elevators.
Booking Confirmation
- Your booking will be confirmed instantly.
- Please ensure all user information is correct as changes after booking will incur handling fees.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation is available for this product.
- Refunds for unused vouchers are subject to the supplier's verification process (2–5 business days).
Voucher Use
- Redeem your e-voucher for a physical pass within 90 days of the date of issue.
- Present your e-voucher and passport at designated JR Ticket Counters (e.g., New Chitose Airport, Sapporo, Hakodate).
- Refer to the official website for all redemption locations.
Location
Address
Hokkaido, Japan (Redemption available at major JR stations including Sapporo, New Chitose Airport, and Hakodate)
Provider
Sapporo Station
Frequently asked questions
What is the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass?
The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass is a special pass that allows unlimited travel on JR Hokkaido trains for 5, 7, or 10 consecutive days.
Where can I use the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass?
The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass can be used on select JR lines, including local, rapid, and limited express trains.
Can I use the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass on buses or other transportation?
Yes, the rail pass can be used for rides on designated JR buses within Hokkaido.
Do I need to make reservations for trains with the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass?
Yes, reservations are required for certain limited express trains, but not for routes like Sapporo to Otaru.
Can I use the Hokkaido Rail Pass on the Shinkansen?
No, the Shinkansen is operated by JR East, and the Hokkaido Rail Pass is only valid for JR Hokkaido trains. However, you can use the pass to travel to Shinkansen stations in Hokkaido, such as Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. If you're planning to take the Shinkansen, you can purchase the JR Whole Japan Pass instead and still enjoy savings.
Is the JR Rail Pass for Hokkaido worth it?
Yes, the Hokkaido JR Pass is worth it for foreign visitors exploring the region extensively. It offers unlimited travel on all JR Hokkaido lines, providing convenient access to popular destinations like Sapporo, Hakodate, Noboribetsu, Niseko, Asahikawa, and the Otaru area, saving both time and transportation costs. You can also easily travel to New Chitose Airport from Sapporo Station or take certain buses. With the rail pass, you can also hop on sightseeing trains like the Furano Biei Norokko Train and the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train.
Can you use the Hokkaido Rail Pass on the Shinkansen?
The Hokkaido Rail Pass is specially designed for foreign visitors entering Japan, offering travel on JR lines (excluding the Shinkansen) and most JR Hokkaido buses for five, seven, or ten consecutive days. However, while you can't use the Hokkaido Rail Pass on the Shinkansen, you can use the Japan Rail Pass to travel on the bullet train from Tokyo to Hakodate.
How do I insert a JR pass ticket?
To get through, simply insert both your Rail Pass and your JR ticket for your destination into the automatic ticket gate slot. Once you're through, don't forget to grab your pass as it comes out on the other side.
Can you travel around Hokkaido without a car?
Yes, you can definitely travel around without a car! With the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass, you'll enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains and certain JR buses, making it easy to explore the region. Whether you're visiting popular cities or more remote areas, the pass offers flexibility and a cost-effective way to travel at your own pace, without the hassle of driving or purchasing multiple tickets.
Is the Hokkaido rail pass free for kids?
Children under one can travel for free when accompanied by an adult, and two children between 1-5 years old can also travel for free with each adult. Children aged 6-11 pay half the adult fare, while children 12 and older need to pay the full adult fare
Can local Japanese people use the Hokkaido Rail Pass?
This rail pass is just for foreign visitors entering Japan with a non-Japanese passport under the “Temporary Visitor” status. You can use it for 5, 7, or 10 consecutive days, starting from the date you choose.
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enjoy my trip with this JR,make my trip is simple just show the ticket and enjoy thw ride, is cheaper than you buy ticket one by one
Redemption was easy and fuss free! Highly satisfied!
Very easy to redeem the voucher. Thank you Pelago
Very easy to redeem the voucher. Thank you Pelago.
Very convenient to use!
Very easy to redeem