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Getting to Sapporo's Best Ski Resorts: Train & Bus Guide

Getting to Sapporo's Best Ski Resorts: Train & Bus Guide

Last updated: 17 December 2024

Planning a trip to one of Sapporo’s ski resorts? Many of these snowy retreats are conveniently accessible by train and bus from Sapporo Station. However, navigating the bus stops can be tricky due to limited signage and directions.

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this guide, you’ll find detailed directions to help you locate the right bus stop for your chosen ski area. Be sure to review these tips in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

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Table of Contents
  1. 1. Getting to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
  2. 2. Getting to Sapporo Bankei Ski Area
  3. 3. Getting to SNOW CRUISE ONZE
  4. 4. Getting to Sapporo Teine
  5. 5. Getting to Dynasty Ski Resort
  6. 6. Getting to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area

1. Getting to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort

1. Getting to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort features seven courses that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, making it a popular destination for families. In addition to the slopes, the resort also offers snow banks for sledding.

The ski area boasts a newly constructed snow escalator, making it an ideal spot for beginners. Meanwhile, advanced snowboarders will appreciate the downhill course, which includes a board park with a jump and moguls.

Direct bus to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is convenient

Direct bus to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is convenient

To visit Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort, take a direct bus from either JR Sapporo Station or Sapporo Municipal Subway Makomanai Station on the Namboku Line.

At JR Sapporo Station, head to the bus terminal outside the south exit and locate the No. 17 stand (*See Note below). The bus terminal is on the first floor of the commercial complex ESTA. Using the underground passage to reach the bus terminal is recommended, as the entrance can be difficult to find from street level.

From the underground shopping mall, head towards ESTA. Near the underground entrance, you'll find stairs leading directly to the bus stops. Use the stairs marked for the Nos. 13 ~ 18 bus stands.

(*) Note
  • As of October 2024, due to the temporary closure of the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, buses are operating from temporary boarding and alighting locations.
  • Outbound: Sapporo Station North Exit (tourist bus boarding/alighting area)
  • Return: Sapporo Station South Exit (airport bus boarding area)

Some of the direct buses to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort also stop at hotels in Sapporo City center. If you are staying at a hotel in the city, inquire at the front desk for more details.

Please note that these buses prioritize passengers with reservations. If the bus is fully booked at the time of departure from Sapporo, boarding without a reservation will not be possible. To ensure a smooth trip, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended.

Here is some additional information:
  • Bus service is available daily during the ski resort's operating period.
  • It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the ski resort from Sapporo Station, and about 1 hour from Makomanai Station.
  • Reservations are given priority. Please note that it is not possible to board the bus when it is fully booked.
  • Due to local circumstances, changes may occur to the schedule and other operations. Please check the official website for the latest information regarding operating periods, times, fees, and other details.
  • Bus schedule and reservations: Chuo Bus website

2. Getting to Sapporo Bankei Ski Area

2. Getting to Sapporo Bankei Ski Area

Sapporo Bankei is a popular skiing destination among tourists in Sapporo, offering the convenience of extended operating hours until 10 PM. The resort provides rental equipment to meet all your skiing needs.

With 17 courses available, the resort caters to all skill levels. Gentle slopes are perfect for beginners and families, while advanced courses are designed to challenge even the most experienced skiers and have been used in international competitions.

For families with children, the resort features the Snow Kids Park, where kids can enjoy sleds and snow tubes in a safe and fun environment.

Easiest way to get to Sapporo Bankei Ski Area is by ban.K Bus

Easiest way to get to Sapporo Bankei Ski Area is by ban.K Bus

Take the ban.K Bus from Maruyama Park Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Tozai Line to reach Sapporo Bankei Ski Resort in about 13 minutes.

After exiting the ticket gate at Maruyama Park Station, follow the signs directing you to the bus terminal. A short 1- to 2-minute walk will lead you to the stairs and an escalator that take you up to the bus waiting room.

To reach Bankei Ski Resort, take the green bus with "ban.K" written in large letters. This bus departs from platform 4 of the bus terminal.

Be aware that other buses to different destinations also leave from this platform. Do not assume that others carrying ski equipment are heading to the same resort as you. Always confirm you are boarding the correct bus.

Here is some additional information:
  • Bus service is available year-round.
  • It takes about 13 minutes from Maruyama Park Station to reach the ski resort.
  • Seat reservations are not necessary.
  • Due to local circumstances, changes may occur to the schedule and other operations. Please check the official website for the latest information regarding operating periods, times, fees, and other details.
  • For details: ban.K Bus website

3. Getting to SNOW CRUISE ONZE

3. Getting to SNOW CRUISE ONZE

For a breathtaking night view of the city, head to SNOW CRUISE ONZE, a popular ski area known for its stunning views of the sea from the slopes.

The ski area caters to all skill levels, offering gentle slopes for beginners, challenging steep runs, and moguls for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Free shuttle bus to SNOW CRUISE ONZE from Sapporo

Free shuttle bus to SNOW CRUISE ONZE from Sapporo

To get to SNOW CRUISE ONZE from Miyanosawa Station on the Tozai Sapporo Municipal Subway, you can take a free shuttle bus. While the bus also departs from Teine Station, this guide focuses on the route from Miyanosawa Station.

Start by locating Exit No. 5 at Miyanosawa Station. After passing through the ticket gate, turn left and look for the escalator on your right. Take the escalator up and continue along the underground passageway until you reach Exit No. 5, which leads to street level.

Note that the shuttle bus to SNOW CRUISE ONZE departs from a location separate from the regular bus terminal. The shuttle is free, so be sure to follow the directions toward Exit No. 5 and disregard signage for the normal bus terminal.

After exiting Exit No. 5 to street level, turn right and walk straight along the sidewalk. You’re on the correct path if you follow the sidewalk as shown in the picture.

As you continue, pass the left side of SEIYU, and you’ll spot the signboard for Sorachi Shinkin Bank on the opposite side of the road.

The signboard for Sorachi Shinkin Bank, a vertical white board with blue lettering, is located near the free shuttle bus stop. Since the shuttle bus does not have a designated stand, you can show a photo of the signboard to someone nearby for guidance if you're unsure where to go.

Here is some additional information:
  • The service runs daily.
  • It takes approximately 45 minutes from Miyanosawa Station, 30 minutes from Teine Station, 19 minutes from Hoshioki Station, and 10 minutes from Zenibako Station to reach the ski resort.
  • Reservations are not required. If the bus is full, you can either wait for the next one or use public transportation.
  • Due to local circumstances, changes may occur to the schedule and other operations. Please check the official website for the latest information regarding operating periods, times, fees, and other details.

4. Getting to Sapporo Teine

4. Getting to Sapporo Teine

During the 1972 Sapporo Olympics, Sapporo Teine hosted the bobsled, luge, and alpine skiing competitions. The area is now divided into two zones: the Olympia Zone and the Highland Zone, both accessible by gondola.

Each zone features a variety of slopes and courses suitable for all skill levels, ranging from beginner-friendly runs to challenging terrain for experts.

Take the Teine Highland Line (JR Hokkaido Bus) headed for Sapporo Teine

Take the Teine Highland Line (JR Hokkaido Bus) headed for Sapporo Teine

To visit Sapporo Teine, take the Teine Highland Line JR Hokkaido Bus from JR Teine Station. The bus ride takes approximately 16 minutes.

To reach the bus stand, exit the ticket gates on the second floor of Teine Station. Walk straight along the side of the waiting room until you come to two exits: South and North. Turn right and take the South Exit. Look for the stairs leading down to ground level, and take the stairs marked South Exit 3. From there, you will see the bus stand for the Teine Highland Line bus.

When taking a JR Hokkaido bus to Sapporo Teine, it's important to know that there are three different bus stops. To ensure you get off at the right stop for your destination, here's an overview of each:

Seikadai Ski Bamae Bus Stop: Use this stop if you're heading to the Dinosaur Kids Park. Please note that rental items are not available at this location. If you need to rent regular skis or ski wear, consider getting off at the next stop, Teine Olympia.

Teine Olympia Bus Stop: This stop is ideal for those looking for rental shops and restaurants. It's located near the newly established Olympia Ski Center and is perfect for beginners and those interested in night skiing.

Teine Highland Bus Stop: Recommended for more advanced skiers, this stop is also near rental shops and restaurants. However, please note that night skiing is not available at this location.

Here is some additional information:
  • Buses run daily from the beginning of December to the end of March.
  • The time it takes to reach each ski resort varies: it's about 13 minutes from Teine Station South Exit to Seikadai Sukījō-Mae (Seikadai Ski Resort), about 16 minutes to Teine Olympia, and about 28 minutes to Teine Highland.
  • Reservations are not needed for buses.
  • Due to local circumstances, changes may occur to the schedule and other operations. Please check the official website for the latest information regarding operating periods, times, fees, and other details.
  • Details and bus timetables: Sapporo Teine website

5. Getting to Dynasty Ski Resort

5. Getting to Dynasty Ski Resort

Dynasty Ski Resort, with its family-friendly slopes, is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers and offers a welcoming sense of openness.

The resort features dedicated areas where children can safely play in the snow, as well as snow rafting activities, making it a popular choice for families.

Access
  • From JR Chitose Line Kitahiroshima Station: About 20 minutes by taxi
  • From JR Chitose Line Uenonopporo Station: About 16 minutes by taxi
  • Dynasty Ski Resort
    ダイナスティスキーリゾート
    • Address 82-4 Nibetsu, Kitahiroshima-shi, Hokkaido 061-1267
    • Phone Number 011-376-2611

6. Getting to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area

6. Getting to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area

Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area offers 10 courses catering to all skill levels, from beginners to experts, but snowboards are not permitted on any of them.

The ski area is easily accessible, taking about 30 minutes by taxi from the city center. Night skiing is also available, providing stunning views of the city and making the slopes a popular choice for visitors.

Take a local bus to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area

Take a local bus to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area

Getting to the Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area is simple and convenient. Take the Jotetsu Bus, a local bus departing from Makomanai Station on the Namboku Line of the Sapporo Municipal Subway. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

However, keep in mind that there is little information available about unscheduled buses to the ski area, despite the numerous bus stands at Makomanai Station. To locate the correct bus, exit through the doors directly in front of the North Exit ticket gate, cross the street at the pedestrian crossing, and walk a few minutes toward the clock tower. You will find several bus stands there where the Jotetsu Bus departs.

You will want to take the bus from the No. 17 stand, which goes to the Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area.

  • Daily bus service is available between the end of December to the end of February and on Saturdays from early to mid-March.
  • It takes around 15 minutes from Makomanai Station to reach the ski resort.
  • Reservations are not needed.
  • Due to local circumstances, changes may occur to the schedule and other operations. Please check the official website for the latest information regarding operating periods, times, fees, and other details.
  • Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Area
    札幌藻岩山スキー場
    • Address 1991 Moiwayama, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 005-0040
    • Phone Number 011-581-0914
Written by:
Nobuka Kawashima
Nobuka Kawashima

A travel creator who has traveled all over Hokkaido in search of spectacular scenery and local gourmet food, Nobuka moved to Hokkaido from Tokyo in 2009. Since then, she has continued to photograph and write articles on Hokkaido travel and food for LIVE JAPAN and other tourism websites and travel magazines. She is a certified Hokkaido Tourism Master, a title given to Hokkaido tourism experts by the Hokkaido Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and also holds certifications as a Domestic Travel Service Supervisor and Chief Itinerary Manager. As a transgender person herself, she runs a support group to create an environment that makes travel easier for LGBTQ people, and also gives lectures and talks at universities and companies.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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