The Ultimate Guide to Train Routes from Tokyo to Sapporo: Stops and Connections

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the train routes from Tokyo to Sapporo, Japan, focusing on the number of stops and connections required on different routes. Whether you prefer the speed of the Shinkansen or the conventional train, this guide will help you plan your journey efficiently.

Shinkansen Route

The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest and most convenient option for traveling from Tokyo to Sapporo. While the Tohoku Shinkansen Hayabusa offers a direct route with fewer stops, it still involves a significant number of stations.

Direct Route via Shinkansen and Limited Express

The Tohoku Shinkansen Hayabusa 7 departs Tokyo and stops at four stations: Omiya, Sendai, Morioka, and Shin-Aomori before reaching Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Station. From Shin-Hakodate Hokuto, you would then take the limited express Hokuto to Sapporo. While the regular Hokuto stops at 12 stations, the limited express runs through fewer points, including only Onuma Koen.

Therefore, the total number of stations from Tokyo to Sapporo, including both the Shinkansen and limited express, is at least 17 and in most cases 18. It is important to note that this count does not include Tokyo Station in the total number of stops.

Conventional Train Route

For those who prefer the conventional train route, especially during long school vacations, there is an option but it involves taking two days. JR offers a ticket that allows unlimited travel on conventional ordinary trains for five days, and some travelers use this ticket to make the journey from Tokyo to Sapporo.

When using the conventional train route, neither the Shinkansen nor the limited express trains are available. Additionally, there are sections of the route where JR does not operate conventional lines. Therefore, you might need to modify your route slightly.

A typical conventional train route from Tokyo to Sapporo would be as follows:

Tokyo Sendai Kita-Yamagata Akita Shin-Aomori Okutsugaru-Imabetsu Goryokaku Oshamanbe Tomakomai Sapporo

This route is an overview, and there are numerous smaller stations between the major stops. If you are curious about the exact number of stations, please leave a comment, and I can provide a simple method to count them.

Conclusion

The journey from Tokyo to Sapporo in Japan can be efficiently planned by understanding the different train routes available. Whether you opt for the direct route via the Shinkansen and limited express or choose the conventional train for a scenic and budget-friendly option, this guide serves as a valuable resource for your travel plans.