"HOKUTO" Limited Express Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Hokkaido limited express train "HOKUTO," which connects Hakodate Station and Sapporo Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As a major limited express train connecting southern and central Hokkaido with the Hokkaido Shinkansen, this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.

The "HOKUTO" is a JR Hokkaido limited express train connecting Hakodate Station and Sapporo Station via the Hakodate Main Line, Muroran Main Line, and Chitose Line. It uses 261 series diesel railcars equipped with a body tilting system, enabling high-speed operation even on sections with many curves. Because the Hokkaido Shinkansen extends to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, the "HOKUTO" connects with the Shinkansen at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, playing a crucial role as a conventional line limited express between Hakodate and Sapporo. All seats are reserved, with both reserved ordinary seats and Green Car seats. With the March 2020 timetable revision, the tilting Kiha 281 series was retired, completing the standardization to the 261 series. The 261 series features a reinforced cold-weather and snow-resistant design, capable of handling Hokkaido's uniquely harsh winter environment. The train's body is adorned with an emblem inspired by the Big Dipper, symbolizing the origin of the train's name.

What is "HOKUTO"?

The "HOKUTO" is a JR Hokkaido limited express train connecting Hakodate and Sapporo. While it previously used the tilting Kiha 281 and Kiha 283 series trains, it is now standardized on the 261 series diesel railcars. The 261 series employs an air-spring body tilting system, ensuring comfortable travel even on the winding, curved sections along the coastline towards Toya and Muroran. Because it passes through Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station on the Hokkaido Shinkansen, it is an important means of access for travelers from Honshu. The 261 series diesel railcars were initially introduced for the "SUPER HOKUTO" service, and later standardized on the "HOKUTO" service. It is expected that the role of the "HOKUTO" will change significantly once the Hokkaido Shinkansen is extended to Sapporo.

Train Features and Highlights

The appeal of the "HOKUTO" train lies in its convenient direct access from Hakodate to Sapporo and the beautiful coastal scenery along Funka Bay (Uchiura Bay). Around Onuma Park Station, you can enjoy the spectacular view of Mount Komagatake and the lakes of Onuma and Konuma. The 261 series diesel railcars are equipped with comfortable facilities, including Green Car, making it a pleasant train even for long-distance travel. Along the Funka Bay section, if the weather is good, you can even see Mount Yotei across Uchiura Bay. From Noboribetsu Station, buses depart for Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani, making it a hub for accessing one of Hokkaido's leading hot spring resorts. Oshamanbe Station is also known as the birthplace of the crab rice bento box, and many travelers get off the train to enjoy it. The section that runs through the vast plains of central Hokkaido, such as the Yufutsu Plain near Tomakomai, also gives a sense of the scale unique to Hokkaido.

"HOKUTO" Timetable

*The "HOKUTO" train operates approximately 10 round trips per day.

Southbound (for Sapporo) Timetable

Northbound (for Hakodate) Timetable

The "HOKUTO" train operates approximately 10 round trips per day between Hakodate Station and Sapporo Station. The timetable at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station is designed to allow for connections with the Hokkaido Shinkansen "HAYABUSA" Shinkansen.

Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "HOKUTO" train operates daily throughout the year. During winter, heavy snowfall tends to cause speed restrictions, service suspensions, and delays. Hokkaido experiences heavy snowfall in winter, and delays are particularly common on the Muroran Main Line and Chitose Line sections.

"HOKUTO" Operating Sections

Main Sections

• Hakodate Station to Oshamanbe Station (Hakodate Main Line)
• Oshamanbe Station to Higashi-Muroran Station (Muroran Main Line)
• Higashi-Muroran Station ~ Tomakomai Station ~ Sapporo Station (Muroran Main Line/Chitose Line)

Hakodate Station is a hub for sightseeing in southern Hokkaido, serving destinations such as Mount Hakodate and Goryokaku Fort. Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station is a connecting station for the Hokkaido Shinkansen, and the area around Onuma Park Station is home to Onuma Quasi-National Park, a scenic spot offering views of Mount Komagatake. Goryokaku Fort is a star-shaped fortress built at the end of the Edo period, and its unique shape can be viewed from Goryokaku Tower. The area around Tomakomai Station has a history of developing as a company town for Oji Paper and also functions as an access point to New Chitose Airport. Jigokudani (Hell Valley) in Noboribetsu Onsen is characterized by its rugged terrain formed by volcanic activity, and the sight of rising steam is breathtaking. The night view from Mount Hakodate is said to be one of the "world's three greatest night views," and the summit can be easily accessed by ropeway.

"HOKUTO" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Hakodate Station
• Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station
• Onuma Park Station (some trains)
• Oshamanbe Station
• Higashi-Muroran Station
• Noboribetsu Station
• Tomakomai Station
• Minami-Chitose Station
• Shin-Sapporo Station
• Sapporo Station

*Stopping patterns vary by train.

"HOKUTO" Fares

Fares for Major Sections

*Prices may vary depending on whether it is peak or off-peak season.

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "HOKUTO" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Since all seats are reserved, please purchase a reserved seat limited express ticket before boarding. If you wish to use a Green Car, you will need to pay the Green Car surcharge in addition to the regular reserved seat fare. The previous transfer discount for transfers between the Hokkaido Shinkansen and conventional limited express trains has been abolished for travel as of March 16, 2024.

Shinkansen Transfer Discounts

If you transfer from the Hokkaido Shinkansen to the "HOKUTO" Limited Express train at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, you will need to pay separate express train fares for both the Shinkansen and the "HOKUTO." The previous transfer discount has been discontinued. There may be limited-time offers available through Eki-net, so please check the latest fares and products on Ekitan or the JR Hokkaido official website. Onuma Quasi-National Park is a scenic spot selected as one of Japan's 100 most beautiful landscapes, where you can explore the lakes and marshes by pleasure boat or cycling. To reach hot spring resorts such as Lake Toya and Noboribetsu, it is common to travel by bus or rental car from the "HOKUTO" stations. At Lake Toya, you can enjoy the lake fireworks display and the Usuzan Ropeway.

During peak season, demand for Green Car seats increases, so we recommend booking early.

How to Buy "HOKUTO" Tickets

Eki-net

JR East's "Eki-net" service allows you to purchase limited express train tickets using a credit card. Limited express tickets go on sale one month before the travel date.

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. Please purchase your reserved seat limited express ticket before boarding.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies also handle "HOKUTO" Limited Express tickets and tour packages that include sightseeing in Hakodate.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "HOKUTO" train is operated by JR Hokkaido, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS or JR Hokkaido Rail Pass. Even when using a pass, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket if you wish to use a reserved seat. The entire JR Hokkaido section is covered by the pass.

*The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.

Is Ticket Issuance Required?

Even if you purchase your tickets through an online reservation service, in most cases you will need to pick them up at a designated ticket vending machine at the station before boarding.

*Whether or not a ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Can I use contactless payment with an IC card or credit card?

For the sections of the "HOKUTO" train service that fall within the Kitaca area, you can use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, there are sections outside the Kitaca area, such as towards Hakodate, and the limited express fare portion cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card, so you must purchase a separate limited express ticket in advance.

On the routes served by the "HOKUTO" train, contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train using only your IC card. An express train fare must be purchased separately. The Hakodate area may be outside the Kitaca area.

"HOKUTO" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "HOKUTO" train is operated using 261 series diesel railcars and consists of reserved ordinary seats and Green Car.

Seating Features

The 261 series diesel railcars feature a body tilting system, ensuring stable running even on the winding sections of the Muroran Main Line. The Green Car offers spacious seating and a calming interior, making long journeys comfortable. The large seat tables are designed for easy use with laptops or meals. Some train sets have power outlets at every seat, allowing passengers to charge their devices with peace of mind even on long journeys. The seat upholstery uses calming gray and brown tones, creating a design that won't become tiresome even on long rides. In addition to footrests, Green Car is also equipped with reading lights, ensuring a comfortable journey even at night.

Large Luggage Space

Large luggage space is provided within the train set.

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting JR Hokkaido's ticket counter or information center in advance.

*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.

Ekiben and In-Train Dining on "HOKUTO"

There is no in-car sales service on the "HOKUTO" train. If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the ekiben shops and stalls around Hakodate Station or Sapporo Station. Hakodate Station offers a variety of ekiben unique to Hokkaido, such as ikameshi. Hakodate Station and Sapporo Station have a rich lineup of ekiben unique to Hokkaido, including those using seafood. At Hakodate's morning market, you can enjoy a rice bowl made with fresh seafood, which is also recommended as a meal before departure.

*Onboard sales are not available.

Important Notes for Riding "HOKUTO"

The "HOKUTO" train has all reserved seats, and it is recommended to reserve a seat during peak season. In winter, it is susceptible to heavy snowfall, so it is advisable to check the operating status in advance. If you are planning to visit Noboribetsu Onsen, you may want to consider getting off at Noboribetsu Station. If you are heading to New Chitose Airport, you can easily access it by transferring to the Rapid Airport at Minami-Chitose Station. When sightseeing in Hakodate, many travelers enjoy combining the night view from Mount Hakodate with a meal at the morning market. If you also want to enjoy sightseeing at Goryokaku, taking the tram from Hakodate Station is convenient.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. If you are planning to transfer to another Shinkansen at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, it is a good idea to allow ample time for the connection.

Summary

The "HOKUTO" is a JR Hokkaido limited express train connecting Hakodate Station and Sapporo Station, characterized by its comfortable ride thanks to the tilting system of its 261 series diesel railcars. It passes through Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, a connecting station with the Hokkaido Shinkansen, and plays an important role as a major means of transportation in the southern and central Hokkaido areas. The JAPAN RAIL PASS and JR Hokkaido Rail Pass can also be used. While playing an important role in connecting with the Hokkaido Shinkansen, it continues to operate as a flagship limited express connecting southern and central Hokkaido. It is one of the limited express trains indispensable to Hokkaido's railway network, supporting travel from southern to central Hokkaido. With the extension plan for the Hokkaido Shinkansen progressing, attention is also being paid to the future position of the "HOKUTO". It is an indispensable limited express for travelers, connecting Hakodate, the gateway to Hokkaido, and Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido. While fulfilling its role in connecting major cities in Hokkaido, it will continue to be chosen by many travelers and local users.

Enjoy the "HOKUTO" train, which offers beautiful scenery along Funka Bay and a comfortable ride, supporting your journey from Hakodate to Sapporo.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.