Ticket - Train - Noboribetsu - Sapporo

It is technically possible to make a round trip to Noboribetsu from Sapporo in one day. However, for a complete experience of the hot springs and volcanic environment, we generally recommend planning an overnight stay.

If a day trip is considered:

We advise departing early from Sapporo to arrive at Noboribetsu Onsen by mid-morning.
This allows time to visit Jigokudani, enjoy a foot bath or a public hot spring, and have a meal before taking the train back in the late afternoon.
An overnight stay offers the opportunity to fully enjoy the ryokan onsens and the unique atmosphere of the hot spring town, which is particularly enjoyable in the evening.

After exchanging your order, you are given a standard-sized cardboard ticket. It carries two elements that should not be confused.

The magnetic strip: for going through the gates

Insert the ticket into the slot of the ticket gate. It comes out on the other side — don't forget to take it back, as it is reusable. The same applies on the way out, at your destination station.

The QR code: for reserving your seats

The square code printed on the ticket is used only to reserve your seats, free of charge, directly at the ticket machines in the station — without going to the counter.

If you have reserved a seat

You will receive a second ticket, whether at the counter or from the machine. Both tickets must be inserted at the gate on the way in, but only the JR Pass should be inserted on the way out.

If the gate rejects your pass

Go to the manned counter at the side of the gates and show your pass to the member of staff, who will let you through. This does not call into question the validity of your pass: the magnetic strip can wear out with use. If the problem recurs, do the same at each gate — your pass remains valid until its expiry date.

Check that your train is covered

The gate also opens for trains that are not included in the pass. Before boarding, make sure the line is operated by JR — see What is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass?

This question refers to the total journey. There is no direct long-distance bus service between Sapporo and Noboribetsu Onsen. The journey breaks down as follows:

Train (Sapporo to Noboribetsu Station): Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Bus (Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen): Approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Including transfer time, the total travel duration from Sapporo to the heart of Noboribetsu Onsen is generally about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.

The cost of a train ticket between Sapporo and Noboribetsu varies depending on the seat type and reservation:

Non-reserved seat: Approximately 4,500 yen.
Reserved seat: Approximately 5,200 yen.

These fares are indicative and may be subject to slight variations. The Japan Rail Pass is valid for this route on JR trains.