Sapporo to Abashiri: How to get to and around Abashiri

From/To:

JAL and ANA operate several round trips per day between Sapporo (Shin-Chitose Airport and Okadama Airport) and Memanbetsu Airport, 30 minutes by bus from Abashiri. Flight time is about 45 minutes. The regular one way fare is around 31,000 yen, while discount tickets are typically available for between 13,000 and 20,000 yen.

Airfares from Sapporo to Memanbetsu over the next 30 days September 14, 2026 - October 13, 2026

Airline	Lowest fare	Average lowest fare
J-Air (JAL)	14,860 yen	16,505 yen
ANA Wings	10,400 yen	17,014 yen
HAC (JAL)	14,490 yen	23,786 yen

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There are two direct JR Okhotsk limited express trains per day between Sapporo and Abashiri. The one way ride takes about 5.5 hours, costs 10,870 yen and is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokkaido Rail Pass. Seat reservations are mandatory.

During the rest of the day, it is possible to take a limited express train from Sapporo to Asahikawa, from where there are a "Taisetsu" and a "Kitami" rapid train to Abashiri. With a good connection, the travel journey barely increases, while the fare decreases by around 800 yen. The rapid trains are also covered by the JR passes.

Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Abashiri Bus operate multiple daytime highway buses between Abashiri and Sapporo. The one way journey takes six hours and costs between 6510 and 7970 yen depending on the date of travel. Online reservations can be made via Willer or Japan Bus Online.

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Abashiri is about 400 kilometers or a six hour drive from Sapporo via Asahikawa, Sounkyo, Kitami and Bihoro.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.

Abashiri has a longish city center without prominent landmarks. JR Abashiri Station stands at its western end. The Prison Museum, Ryuhyo Museum and Museum of Northern Peoples are located on nearby Mount Tento, a 5-10 minute bus or car ride from the city center.

Memanbetsu Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Abashiri. The bus trip from the airport to JR Abashiri Station and Abashiri Bus Terminal takes about 30 minutes and costs 1050 yen one way. Various rental car companies have outlets at the airport.

A tourist bus connects Abashiri Bus Center with JR Abashiri Station and the museums on Mount Tento. In winter, it also serves the ryuhyo cruise boat terminal. The buses operates daily every 60-90 minutes during the busier travel seasons, less frequent in the shoulder seasons and not at all on weekdays in the off-seasons. Fares are between 180 and 530 yen, depending on the distance traveled.