Hokkaido Free Pass
The Hokkaido Free Pass (北海道フリーパス), is a rail pass, providing unlimited use of JR trains (except the Hokkaido Shinkansen) and most JR buses in Hokkaido on seven consecutive days. Unlike the Hokkaido Rail Pass, this Hokkaido Free Pass can also be used by residents of Japan.
| No reduced rates for children. | |
Below is a map of major JR train lines on Hokkaido, which can be used with the Hokkaido Free Pass:
Validity
- Unlimited use of JR trains in Hokkaido except the Hokkaido Shinkansen.
- Unlimited usage of JR Hokkaido Bus lines, except the Twinkle Buses and the lines from Sapporo to Asahikawa, Monbetsu, Obihiro, Kiroro and Erimo.
- Seat reservations can be made for free for up to six train rides.
- The pass is valid on seven consecutive days.
- The pass cannot be used during peak travel seasons (New Year, Golden Week and Obon).
Points of Sale
Major JR railway stations in Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto (incl. Tokyo), Shikoku and Kyushu.
Assessment
This pass only makes sense, if you plan on traveling long distances. The table below shows approximate regular fares for one-way limited express tickets (ordinary car) between selected major cities. Use it to compare the cost of regular tickets with the cost of a Hokkaido Free Pass:
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| Sapporo |
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| Asahikawa |
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| Hakodate |
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| Wakkanai |
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Alternative Tickets
The Hokkaido Rail Pass is a slightly cheaper alternative to the Hokkaido Free Pass, however, it is only available to foreign visitors and not to residents of Japan. Like the Hokkaido Free Pass, the Hokkaido Rail Pass provides unlimited use of JR trains (except shinkansen) and buses in Hokkaido. It is available for three, five or seven consecutive days or four days of your choice within a 10 day period.
Links and Resources
Japanese
Tours and travel services
