Best Train Journeys Around the World in Sapporo, Hokkaidō, Japan
1. Hokkaido Shinkansen
High-speed train connecting Tokyo and Sapporo, offering comfort, speed, and scenic views of Japan's northern island.
- Speed: Travel from Tokyo to Sapporo in just 4 hours
- Comfort: Spacious seats and onboard services for a comfortable journey
- Scenic Views: Pass by mountains, forests, and coastal landscapes during the trip
2. Sapporo-Otaru Streetcar
Historic streetcar line connecting Sapporo and Otaru, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
- Historical Significance: Operates on a track system built in 1913
- Nostalgic Experience: Travel through time with this vintage transportation
- Accessibility: Connects Sapporo's city center to charming Otaru town
3. Sekka-Teisha Line
A narrow-gauge railway connecting Sapporo and JR Shiroi Koike Station, offering a beautiful journey through the Furano Flower Fields.
- Floral Spectacle: Travel amidst fields of lavender, sunflowers, and roses
- Seasonal Attraction: Best visited during the flower blooming seasons (July-August)
- Rural Scenery: Pass through serene landscapes of Hokkaido's countryside
4. Biei Ginga Bus
A circular bus tour in Biei town showcasing its famous pastoral landscapes and farmlands.
- Scenic Highlights: Visit iconic spots like the Shirogane Blue Pond, Farm Tomita, and Panorama Road
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning landscapes and farmlands in Hokkaido's high alpine region
- Comfortable Transportation: Travel by comfortable coach with convenient pick-up/drop-off points
5. Otokoyama Ropeway & Ski Gondola
A scenic ropeway and ski gondola ride in Sapporo Dome, offering panoramic views of the city and Mt. Eniwa.
- Urban Views: Gain a bird's-eye view of Sapporo cityscape
- Seasonal Attractions: Ski or snowboard in winter; hike in summer and fall
- Mountain Adventure: Reach the summit of Mt. Eniwa for breathtaking views
6. Sapporo Beer Museum Railway
A miniature train tour at the Sapporo Beer Museum showcasing the history of Sapporo's beer brewing industry.
- Historical Insights: Learn about Sapporo's beer-brewing heritage
- Tasting Experience: Sample Sapporo beer at the museum's tasting room
- Unique Attraction: Ride a miniature train through a charming beer-themed park
7. Sapporo TV Tower Observatory
A tower offering panoramic views of Sapporo city and its surrounding mountains.
- Urban Views: Gain a bird's-eye view of Sapporo cityscape
- Observation Deck: Visit the indoor and outdoor observation decks for unobstructed views
- Night Views: Enjoy stunning city lights at night from the tower's observatory
8. Sapporo White Illumination
A winter festival in Odori Park featuring illuminated Christmas decorations and ice sculptures.
- Winter Festival: Experience a unique Japanese take on the Christmas season
- Ice Sculptures: Marvel at intricate ice sculptures showcased throughout the park
- Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy food, drinks, and shopping amidst the illuminated displays
9. Otaru Canal Cruise
A boat tour along Otaru's historic canal, passing by charming buildings and glassware shops.
- Historical Significance: Sail through Otaru's well-preserved waterfront area
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of the canal, bridges, and buildings
- Glassware Shopping: Visit shops selling unique Otaru glassware during the cruise
10. Sapporo Snow Festival Cruise
A boat tour showcasing Sapporo's famous snow sculptures during the annual Snow Festival.
- Festival Experience: Experience the Snow Festival from a unique vantage point
- Snow Sculptures: Marvel at massive snow sculptures illuminated at night
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of the frozen bay and city skyline
11. Sapporo Maruyama Zoo Monorail
A monorail connecting Sapporo Station to the Maruyama Zoo, offering a convenient and scenic ride.
- Convenient Transportation: Travel from downtown Sapporo directly to the zoo
- Scenic Views: Enjoy views of Sapporo's urban landscape and the zoo during the ride
- Zoo Accessibility: Easily visit Sapporo's popular Maruyama Zoo
12. JR Furano Scenic Railway
A scenic train ride through Hokkaido's pastoral landscapes and farmlands, connecting Furano and Asahikawa.
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of lush forests, rivers, and farmlands
- Seasonal Attractions: Best visited during the lavender or fall foliage seasons (July-October)
- Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a charming, vintage train
13. JR Shikotsu-Toya Railway
A scenic railway connecting New Chitose Airport and the hot spring resort towns of Toyako and Shikotsuko.
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of Lake Toya, mountains, and volcanic landscapes
- Relaxation: Visit hot spring resorts after a long journey
- Convenient Transportation: Travel from New Chitose Airport directly to the scenic Lake Toya area
14. JR Hakodate-Hamamatsu-cho Line
A picturesque train ride connecting Hakodate and Hamamatsu-cho, offering views of the sea, mountains, and historic towns.
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of the Sea of Japan, mountains, and rural landscapes
- Historical Significance: Pass through picturesque towns with well-preserved buildings
- Cultural Experience: Explore Hakodate's historic districts, including Goryokaku Fort and the Old Public Hall
15. JR Muroran-Hakodate Railway
A scenic train ride connecting Muroran and Hakodate, offering views of the Sea of Japan, mountains, and historic towns.
- Scenic Highlights: Take in views of the Sea of Japan, mountains, and rural landscapes
- Historical Significance: Pass through picturesque towns with well-preserved buildings
- Cultural Experience: Explore Hakodate's historic districts, including Goryokaku Fort and the Old Public Hall