Getting Around in Sapporo

Sapporo transportation makes getting around Japan's fifth largest city simple. Most public transportation in Sapporo is extremely safe--and definitely advisable if you're visiting during the harsh winter season, so that you don't slip on the ice.

Trains

Trains are the most convenient way to get around Japan, and Sapporo is no exception. The JR train line can get you to multiple points throughout the city or to the Shin-Chitose Airport or Hokkaido. Getting to Tokyo is also possible, although it costs around $230 and takes ten hours.

Subway

Perhaps even less expensive than than the train, especially if you're planning on staying in Sapporo anyway, is the subway system. Heading west and east from the central Odori Station is the Tozai Line and north and south is serviced by the Namboku Line. Fares cost about $2 for adults and $1 for children ages twelve and younger each time, but if you come on the weekends, you may be able to purchase an unlimited use one-day ticket that costs only $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids. (You can also purchase an unlimited-use one-day weekday card for $8 for adults and $4 for kids.) There's also a combination subway/bus card, with unlimited one-day use that costs about $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

Bus

Where the subway doesn't go, the Sapporo area is serviced by three bus lines: the JR Hokkaido Bus, the Hokkaido Chuo Bus and the Jotetsu Bus. Fares are similar to that of the subway.

Streetcar

Besides the bus and the subway, another popular option for public transportation in Sapporo is the streetcar. Mostly in the southwest area of the city, the streetcar makes a number of stops at important points in the city, such as a library and the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. Fares are only about $1.70 each way, with unlimited one-day passes going for $3.