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Explore Hokkaido with the JR Hokkaido Pass

Scenic Journeys Made Easy with Hokkaido Rail Pass

JR Hokkaido Pass is the ultimate way to explore Northern Japan with unlimited train travel across Sapporo, Furano, Hakodate, and more. For flexible travel within Hokkaido, the Hokkaido Rail Pass also offers great value, making it easy for visitors to discover hot springs, nature, and local culture. Read More.

What is the JR Hokkaido Pass?

The JR  Hokkaido Pass is a regional rail pass offered by Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido), exclusively for foreign tourists visiting Japan under a Temporary Visitor visa. This pass allows unlimited rides on JR Hokkaido-operated trains, including Limited Express and local trains, across the entire Hokkaido region.

Whether you are exploring snow-covered mountains in winter, vibrant flower fields in summer, or historic port towns year-round, the JR  Hokkaido Pass makes traveling around Japan’s northernmost island both cost-effective and convenient.

This pass is ideal for international travellers who plan to explore multiple cities and scenic destinations across Hokkaido within a few days. It is perfect for itineraries that include popular locations such as Sapporo, Otaru, Hakodate, Furano, Asahikawa, Noboribetsu, and Wakkanai, offering massive savings on long-distance train fares.

If you are planning to visit during Hokkaido’s winter festivals, flower seasons, or onsen trips, the JR  Hokkaido Pass gives you the flexibility to travel without having to purchase separate tickets for each journey.

  • Unlimited train rides on JR Hokkaido trains, including Limited Express
  • Travel across the entire Hokkaido region with a single pass
  • Major savings compared to buying individual train tickets
  • Convenient and flexible travel for foreign tourists
  • Easy seat reservations and no ticket lines
  • Access to famous destinations like Sapporo Snow Festival, Noboribetsu Onsen, Hakodate Night View, Furano Lavender Fields, and more
Use the table below to compare the different JR Hokkaido Passes based on coverage, cost, duration, and recommended usage. Choose the one that best matches your travel route and time in Hokkaido.
If you plan to visit… Recommended Pass Duration Why This Pass?
Multiple cities across Hokkaido (e.g. Sapporo, Hakodate, Wakkanai, Furano) JR Hokkaido Rail Pass *Map 5,7, 10 days Full access to all JR Hokkaido lines; ideal for long-distance and island-wide travel
Sapporo, Otaru, and Noboribetsu Onsen JR Sapporo Noboribetsu Area Pass *Map 4 days Covers key cities and hot springs in southwest Hokkaido; great for short stays
Sapporo, Biei, and Furano (lavender fields and flower routes) JR Sapporo Furano Area Pass *Map 4 days Perfect for summer travel to scenic central Hokkaido; includes flower-viewing trains
Tokyo, Sendai, Hakodate, and Sapporo (traveling from Honshu to Hokkaido) JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass *Map 6 days Includes Tohoku & South Hokkaido via Shinkansen; ideal for those starting in Tokyo
Tohoku (e.g. Aomori, Akita) + Hakodate & Southern Hokkaido Tohoku South Hokkaido Rail Pass *Map 6 days Combines deep Tohoku exploration with southern Hokkaido cities and hot springs
  • Unlimited rides on JR Hokkaido–operated trains across the entire region
  • Hokkaido Shinkansen service between Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and Hakodate
  • Limited Express trains (e.g., Hokuto, Super Ozora, Okhotsk, Soya, Lilac)
  • Local & Rapid JR trains linking every city, town, and rural stop
  • Free seat reservations on all eligible services—reserve at JR ticket offices or online
  • Access to scenic tourist trains (seasonal flower trains, heritage lines)
  • Unlimited complimentary seat reservations—no surcharge for reserved seats
  • Flexible activation for 5 or 7 or 10 consecutive days—plan dates as you go
  • Paperless ticketing & QR code exchange—easy pickup and entry at manned gates
  • Access to select seasonal/limited-run services (e.g., Lavender Express in summer)
  • Hassle-free travel—no need to buy individual fares or queue for tickets
Yes, if you are visiting multiple cities in Hokkaido or planning long-distance trips, the JR Hokkaido Pass can save you thousands of Yen.
Type Pass Duration Itinerary Example Total Value Without Pass Pass Price Estimated Savings
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass *Physical only 5 Days Sapporo → Hakodate → Furano → Asahikawa → Noboribetsu 34,000 Yen+ 20,000 Yen 14,000 Yen+
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass *Physical only 7 Days Sapporo → Wakkanai → Abashiri → Kushiro → Obihiro → Sapporo 49,000 Yen+ 26,000 Yen 23,000 Yen+
Sapporo-Noboribetsu Area Pass *Physical only 4 Days Sapporo ↔ Noboribetsu (Onsen trip) + Otaru day trip 10,000 Yen+ 7,500 Yen 2,500 Yen+
Sapporo-Furano Area Pass *Physical only 4 Days Sapporo ↔ Furano (Lavender fields) + Biei sightseeing 11,500 Yen+ 8,000 Yen 3,500 Yen+
JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass *Physical only 6 Days Tokyo → Sendai → Hakodate → Sapporo 38,000 Yen+ 27,000 Yen 11,000 Yen+
Tohoku-South Hokkaido Pass *Physical only 6 Days Morioka → Aomori → Hakodate → Noboribetsu 36,000 Yen+ 24,000 Yen 12,000 Yen+

Depending on the pass type, the JR  Hokkaido Pass gives you access to a wide range of destinations from major cities to remote scenic spots across Japan’s northern island. Perfect for nature lovers, hot spring seekers, winter sports fans, and off-the-beaten-path explorers.

  • Sapporo – Hokkaido’s capital city known for the Sapporo Snow Festival, local ramen, and vibrant city life
  • Hakodate – Historic port city offering panoramic night views from Mt. Hakodate and fresh seafood at the morning market
  • Furano – Famous for lavender fields, rolling hills, and Ningle Terrace artisan village (best in summer)
  • Biei – Home to the iconic Blue Pond and “Patchwork Road” countryside views
  • Noboribetsu – Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring town with volcanic landscapes like Hell Valley (Jigokudani)
  • Asahikawa – Visit Asahiyama Zoo and explore nearby Daisetsuzan National Park
  • Wakkanai – Japan’s northernmost city, gateway to Cape Soya and Rishiri-Rebun Islands
  • Abashiri – Known for drift ice cruises in winter and the unique Abashiri Prison Museum
  • Kushiro – Explore Kushiro Wetlands, observe Japanese red-crowned cranes, and enjoy local seafood
  • Obihiro – Discover Tokachi sweets, pork bowl (butadon), and agricultural heritage

Each pass type unlocks access to specific regions within Hokkaido. whether you are taking a scenic coastal ride, enjoying onsen getaways, or chayou areavender fields in the summer, the JR  Hokkaido Pass helps you get there with ease and savings.

Key Destinations to Explore with the JR Hokkaido Pass

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How to Purchase and Use the JR Hokkaido Pass

JRPass

Step 1: Purchase Your JR  Hokkaido Pass

  • Choose your preferred pass type:
    • JR Hokkaido Rail Pass – 5, 7, 10 Days
    • JR Sapporo Noboribetsu Area Pass – 4 Days
    • JR Sapporo Furano Area Pass – 4 Days
    • JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass – 6 Days 
    • Tohoku South Hokkaido Rail Pass – 6 Day
JRPass2

Step 2: Exchange or Activate Your JR  Hokkaido Pass in Japan

  • Upon arrival, visit any JR Hokkaido Exchange Office at major stations such as:
    • New Chitose Airport
    • Sapporo Station
    • Hakodate Station
    • Asahikawa Station
  • Present your Exchange Order (e-ticket) and passport with a Temporary Visitor visa stamp.
  • Choose your activation date (can be up to 30 days after exchange).
Jr Pass Resized Image 512x288

Step 3: Use Your JR  Hokkaido Pass with Ease

  • Show your pass at manned JR gates — no need to buy individual tickets.
  • Enjoy unlimited rides on:
    • JR Hokkaido Limited Express trains (e.g., Hokuto, Super Ozora, Okhotsk)
    • Local and Rapid JR Hokkaido trains
    • Hokkaido Shinkansen (between Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and Kikonai, if applicable)
  • Reserve seats for free at any Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket office or reservation machine.
Exchange Pass (Physical)

Important Notes 

  • Always carry your passport when using the pass. JR staff may check your visa status.
  • Pass validity starts on the first day of use and runs for consecutive days based on your selected pass.
  • Handle the pass carefully as it is non-replaceable and non-refundable if lost.
  • Children aged 6–11 pay a reduced fare; children under 6 ride free when not occupying a seat.

Customer Reviews

Lisa

⭐5/5

I saved so much compared to buying individual tickets. Got to see Sapporo, Hakodate, and Wakkanai without stress.

Faizan

⭐5/5

This pass is a must for first-time travellers to Hokkaido. Clean trains, beautiful views, and easy to reserve seats.

Zahir

⭐5/5

We used the Sapporo–Furano Area Pass for our summer honeymoon. Lavender fields were magical.

Chloe

⭐5/5

This pass let us see parts of Hokkaido we would not have thought of. Highly recommended for adventurers.

Mustafa

⭐5/5

This was my second trip to Hokkaido, and using the JR Pass made a huge difference. No stress, no extra costs.

Rachel

⭐5/5

The customer service at JR stations was excellent. They helped us reserve every train we needed.

Fadhila

⭐5/5

Using this pass was the best travel decision we made. We covered all the best parts of Hokkaido.

Aneesa

⭐5/5

The best way to explore Hokkaido on a budget. Trains are fast, quiet, and punctual.

Kevin

⭐5/5

I used the pass solo and felt completely safe and supported. JR Hokkaido staff were so helpful.

Lucas

⭐5/5

Great for visiting multiple towns without worrying about individual fares or route planning.

Nurul

⭐5/5

This was my first time traveling in Hokkaido. The JR Pass made it simple to explore without speaking Japanese.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The JR  Hokkaido Pass is a special train pass for foreign tourists that allows unlimited travel on JR Hokkaido-operated trains across Japan’s northernmost island. It includes access to Limited Express, Local, Rapid trains, and select tourist routes within the JR Hokkaido network.

Only foreign nationals visiting Japan under a Temporary Visitor visa status are eligible to use the JR  Hokkaido Pass.

No. The pass is exclusively for non-resident foreign travellers visiting Japan for tourism.

Pass durations vary depending on the type:

  • JR Hokkaido Rail Pass – 5, 7 or 10 days
  • JR Sapporo Furano Area Pass – 4 days
  • JR Sapporo Noboribetsu Area Pass – 4 days
  • JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass – 6 days 
  • Tohoku South Hokkaido Rail Pass –6 days

Prices vary by pass type and duration.

Yes. It covers:

  • All JR  Hokkaido Limited Express, Rapid, and Local trains
  • Hokkaido Shinkansen between Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and Kikonai
  • Some sightseeing and seasonal trains

Note: It does not cover non-JR/private railways.

Yes! The pass is valid on JR lines serving major cities across Hokkaido, including: Sapporo, Hakodate, Asahikawa, Obihiro, Wakkanai, Abashiri, and Kushiro

No. The pass is valid only on JR Hokkaido-operated trains. Subways (e.g., Sapporo Subway) and private railways are not covered.

Yes. It includes trains to and from New Chitose Airport, such as: Rapid Airport trains (Sapporo ⇔ New Chitose Airport)

Generally, JR Hokkaido buses are not included. Some local lines may allow free or discounted rides, but check locally for details.

No. The JR  Hokkaido Pass is valid only on JR Hokkaido lines within Hokkaido.
For Tokyo or Honshu routes, use the JR East–South Hokkaido Pass or Japan Rail Pass.

  • JR Hokkaido Rail Pass: Yes – Covers Furano, Noboribetsu, and Biei
  • Sapporo–Furano Area Pass: Furano & Biei only
  • Sapporo–Noboribetsu Area Pass: Noboribetsu only
  • JR East–South Hokkaido Pass: Partially – Covers up to Sapporo; extra fare needed beyond
  • Tohoku–South Hokkaido Pass: Partially – Covers to Sapporo; limited for Furano/ Biei/ Noboribetsu

*Best coverage: JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
*Limited coverage: Regional or inter-prefecture passes beyond Sapporo may require extra tickets.

You can purchase the pass online from authorized travel agencies (e.g., H.I.S. Travel Malaysia.)

Yes. All JR Hokkaido regional passes include free seat reservations on eligible JR Hokkaido trains. This includes Limited Express, Rapid, and Local trains operating within the pass’s valid area.

No. You can board trains using non-reserved seating if you have not booked a seat, but seat reservations are highly recommended, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons in Hokkaido on:

  • Limited Express trains (e.g., Hokuto, Ozora, Super Soya)
  • Long-distance and seasonal trains

Reserve at JR ticket counters or Midori-no-Madoguchi machines.

The following JR Hokkaido passes allow free ordinary seat reservations:

  • JR Hokkaido Rail Pass (5, 7, or 10 days)
  • Sapporo–Furano Area Pass
  • Sapporo–Noboribetsu Area Pass
  • JR East–South Hokkaido Rail Pass
  • Tohoku–South Hokkaido Rail Pass

You can reserve seats at:

  • JR station ticket counters (Midori-no-Madoguchi)
  • Reservation machines available at many JR Hokkaido stations
  • JR East Train Reservation online system (requires pickup at station)

No. JR Hokkaido Pass holders can make unlimited free ordinary seat reservations during the pass validity period.

No. Green Cars (first-class) and premium cabins are not covered. You must pay the difference if you wish to upgrade.

Some sightseeing and special trains may:

  • Not have reserved seating (non-reserved only)
  • Require a supplemental fee (e.g., for observation or lounge seats)

Examples:

  • Furano Biei Norokko Train – Non-reserved only
  • SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train – Reservation required; may incur extra fees

Some sightseeing and special trains may:

  • Not have reserved seating (non-reserved only)
  • Require a supplemental fee (e.g., for observation or lounge seats)

Examples:

  • Furano Biei Norokko Train – Non-reserved only
  • SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train – Reservation required; may incur extra fees

Yes, if you are using the JR East–South Hokkaido or Tohoku–South Hokkaido Pass, you can reserve seats online in advance using the JR East Train Reservation system. You must collect tickets at a JR station before boarding.

Exchange your voucher or e-ticket at a designated JR Hokkaido station or airport counter. Bring your passport with Temporary Visitor stamp and select your activation date.

Yes, as long as the pass has not yet been activated. After activation, the date and duration are fixed.

Yes. However, prices are often higher when purchased inside Japan. To save, buy online before your trip from authorized agents, such as H.I.S. Travel Malaysia.

Yes. If you are visiting multiple destinations (e.g., Sapporo → Asahikawa → Noboribetsu), you will save significantly compared to individual train tickets.

Use Apps like NAVITIME Japan or Google Maps (filter for JR routes) and JR Hokkaido official site (English timetable available)

Yes! You can ride as many JR Hokkaido trains as you want on each valid day of your pass.

Lost or stolen passes cannot be reissued. Treat your pass like cash and store it safely.

No. The pass does not cover sleeper trains or overnight compartments. You can ride standard trains until around midnight.

Yes. You may bring standard-sized luggage.
If your suitcase exceeds 160 cm in total dimensions, you may need to reserve a seat with a baggage area (mainly on Shinkansen routes).

Yes. Children aged 6–11 pay half the adult price. Children under 6 ride free if they do not occupy a seat.

Yes. You can cancel your Pass if it has not yet been exchanged in Japan. Refunds are available within 11 months of purchase, minus a 15% cancellation fee. The original Exchange Order must be returned to the issuing travel agency.

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