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Sapporo, Hokkaido to Niseko, Hokkaido from $9: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sapporo, Japan
to
Niseko, Japan

How to Get from Sapporo to Niseko: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$9 by carBest price
91 kmDistance
1h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sapporo to Niseko with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Hokkaido Chuo Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  44m
Estimated price
$13-16
Recommended
Company
Japan Railways (JR)
Train
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$12-17
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 91 km
Duration: 1h 26m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  26m
Estimated price
$9-15

Traveling From Sapporo to Niseko

The journey from Sapporo to Niseko offers a striking contrast between the vibrant urban culture of Sapporo and the serene natural beauty and exhilarating ski slopes of Niseko.

Best Neighbourhoods in Niseko

Niseko boasts charming neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Hirafu Village
• Vibrant nightlife with top-notch restaurants.
• Convenient access to ski lifts and slopes.
Annupuri
• Less crowded, ideal for peace seekers.
• Offers impressive panoramic mountain views.
Hanazono
• Known for world-class ski facilities.
• Features beautiful, family-friendly chalet accommodations.

Best Times To Visit Niseko's Attractions

Timing your visit to Niseko’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Niseko Ski Resort
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and pristine slopes.
Niseko Village
Explore during late afternoon for a quieter atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
Onsen Hot Springs
Enjoy a soak in the evening to relax after a day of activities.

Niseko Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Niseko experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters filled with heavy snowfall and mild summers, making it ideal for both winter sports and summer activities. Planning your visit around the peak seasons, typically December to March for skiing and June to September for hiking, can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

In Niseko, try the fresh, locally sourced seafood at The Barn, a restaurant that beautifully contrasts with Sapporo's vibrant ramen scene. The cozy, rustic atmosphere combined with dishes featuring seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and oceans creates a unique dining experience that reflects the area's natural bounty.

Sapporo - Niseko operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sapporo and Niseko, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
011-231-0500
Website
https://chuo-bus.co.jp

Bus from 北1条西4丁目 to 本通り[ニセコ町]

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$13-16
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
(050) 2016-1603
Website
https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/index.html

Train from Sapporo to Otaru

Average Duration
34m
Estimated price
$4-6

Train from Otaru to Niseko

Average Duration
1h 51m
Estimated price
$130-12

Sapporo to Niseko: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Sapporo and Niseko offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque drive from Sapporo to Niseko, covering a distance of 57 miles in approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. Cruising through the scenic roads of Hokkaido, you'll witness breathtaking vistas of snowy landscapes and charming countryside. 💰 Enjoy affordable travel options, with car rental prices ranging from $9 to $15 for the journey from Sapporo to Niseko. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make your way to the renowned skiing destination, known for its powdery slopes and cozy winter retreats.
Average price
$9 - $15
🚄 Starting at Sapporo station, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey to Niseko with a transfer in Otaru. The total travel time, with transfers included, is approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Sapporo to Niseko train ride typically range from $12 to $17, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore the charming town of Niseko.
Departure Point
Sapporo station
Arrival Point
Niseko station
🚌 Traveling from Sapporo to Niseko by bus is a convenient and efficient option. The direct bus service runs four times a day, taking approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between Sapporo and Niseko ranges from $13 to $16, offering travelers an affordable option to explore the beautiful surroundings of Niseko.
Departure Point
北1条西4丁目 station
Arrival Point
本通り[ニセコ町] station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at 北1条西4丁目 bus station at least 15 minutes before your departure time to find your bus without any rush, as this can often be a busy stop, and buses may leave promptly on time.
• Check Hokkaido Chuo Bus's official website at Hokkaido Chuo Bus for the latest schedules and any possible fare changes, as prices typically range from $13 to $16.
• Upon arriving at 本通り[ニセコ町], look for the tourist information center immediately to your left, where you can get helpful maps and details about local accommodations, dining options, and transportation to your final destination, such as popular ski resorts.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sapporo to Niseko.

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The distance between Sapporo and Niseko is approximately 38 miles. If you choose to drive, it is about 56.6 miles and takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes. The train journey from Sapporo to Niseko takes about 3 hours and 32 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus which takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes to reach Niseko from Sapporo.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sapporo to Niseko is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes to cover the distance of 38 miles. The cost of driving is around $9-$15. This option allows you to have flexibility and convenience during your travel.
The prices for a train ticket from Sapporo to Niseko range from $12 to $17. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket from Niseko to Sapporo range from $11 to $16. It is important to note that these prices can vary depending on factors such as travel time and class of service. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Sapporo to Niseko without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 57 miles, and it takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to drive from Sapporo to Niseko. The prices for car rentals vary, ranging from $9 to $15, depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
The best way to travel from Sapporo to Niseko without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes and usually costs between $11 and $16. This option is convenient and cost-effective for those who do not have a car or do not wish to drive.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Sapporo and Niseko. The bus services, operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus, depart from 北1条西7丁目 station and arrive at 本通り[ニセコ町]station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes and there are five departures per day. However, there is no direct train from Sapporo to Niseko. Traveling by train requires a transfer at Otaru and takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Niseko. With over 387 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to fit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Niseko start at $85 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, cozy ryokans, or budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something for everyone in the area.