"OZORA" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR Hokkaido's limited express "OZORA", which connects Sapporo Station and Kushiro Station. It covers timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This long-distance limited express provides essential access to the eastern Hokkaido area, and 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 "OZORA" is a JR Hokkaido limited express connecting Sapporo Station and Kushiro Station via the Chitose Line, Sekisho Line, and Nemuro Main Line. It uses 261 series diesel railcars, equipped with a car body tilting system similar to the Hokuto. This long-distance route via the Sekisho Line and Nemuro Main Line makes it an important limited express directly connecting central Hokkaido with the Kushiro and Obihiro areas of eastern Hokkaido. All seats are reserved, with both Reserved Ordinary Seats and Green Car seats. With the March 2022 timetable revision, the replacement of the KiHa 283 series with the 261 series was completed, unifying the rolling stock. The train's exterior features a refreshing color scheme inspired by the vast skies and land of Hokkaido. Because it is a long-distance limited express, some trains are equipped with vending machines, making it convenient to purchase drinks.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Train Name | "OZORA" |
| Operating Company | JR Hokkaido |
| Main Operating Sections | Sapporo Station to Kushiro Station (via Chitose Line, Sekisho Line, and Nemuro Main Line) |
| Main Starting and Ending Stations | Sapporo Station / Kushiro Station |
| Number of Trains | Approximately 6 round trips per day |
| Estimated Travel Time | Sapporo to Kushiro: Approximately 4 hours |
| Seating | Reserved Ordinary Seats, Green Car |
Table of Contents
- What is "OZORA"?
- "OZORA" Timetable
- "OZORA" Operating Sections
- "OZORA" Stations Served
- "OZORA" Fares
- How to Buy "OZORA" Tickets
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments Be Used?
- "OZORA" Seating Information
- Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on "OZORA"
- Points to Note When Riding "OZORA"
- Summary
What is "OZORA"?
"OZORA" is a JR Hokkaido limited express connecting Sapporo and Kushiro in eastern Hokkaido. While it was formerly primarily operated by the tilting KiHa 283 series, it is now standardized on the 261 series diesel railcars. The Sekisho Line section is a mountainous route traversing the Yubari Mountains, offering passengers magnificent views of the Tomamu area from the train windows. This long-distance limited express, passing through Obihiro to Kushiro, allows passengers to truly experience the vastness of Hokkaido. The Sekisho Line is a relatively new line, opened in 1981, and is characterized by its numerous tunnels piercing the Yubari Mountains. The train's name, "OZORA," evokes the vast sky of Hokkaido, giving it a fitting dignified appearance for long-distance transport to eastern Hokkaido.
Train Features and Popular Points
The appeal of the "OZORA" express lies in its convenience: it provides direct access from Sapporo to Kushiro, the central city of eastern Hokkaido. On the Sekisho Line section, passengers can enjoy the mountainous scenery of the Yubari Mountains and the resort area of Tomamu, while on the Nemuro Main Line section, they can enjoy the vast rural landscape of the Tokachi Plain and the mystical wetlands of the Kushiro Marsh. The 261 series diesel railcars are equipped with comfortable amenities, including Green Car. The area around Tomamu Station is a major resort area, home to Hoshino Resorts Tomamu and many other popular spots such as the Sea of Clouds Terrace. From Shintoku Station, a magnificent view of the Karikachi Pass unfolds, allowing passengers to experience the scale unique to Hokkaido. The scenery of vast farmlands stretching to the horizon, characteristic of eastern Hokkaido, is another attraction of this express's windows. Around the Karikachi Pass, there is a scenic spot that was once considered one of Japan's three best railway scenic views, making this section of the train highly valuable as a railway heritage site.
"OZORA" Timetable
*The "OZORA" operates approximately 6 round trips per day.
Southbound (towards Kushiro) Timetable
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Departing from Sapporo | morning | afternoon |
| Departing from Obihiro | ― | ― |
| Arriving in Kushiro | Approximately 4 hours later | Approximately 4 hours later |
Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Sapporo)
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Departing from Kushiro | morning | afternoon |
| Departing from Obihiro | ― | ― |
| Arriving in Sapporo | Approximately 4 hours later | Approximately 4 hours later |
The "OZORA" operates approximately six round trips a day between Sapporo Station and Kushiro Station. Many passengers board and alight at Obihiro Station, and the train also plays a role in connecting major cities in eastern Hokkaido.
Operating Days and Service Suspension Notes
The "OZORA" operates daily throughout the year. During winter, heavy snowfall tends to cause speed restrictions, service suspensions, and delays on the Sekisho Line and Nemuro Main Line sections. The eastern Hokkaido area, in particular, experiences heavy snowfall in winter, and significant delays can occur, so it is recommended to allow ample time for your journey.
"OZORA" Operating Sections
Main Sections
- Sapporo Station to Minami-Chitose Station (Chitose Line)
- Minami-Chitose Station to Shintoku Station (Sekisho Line)
- Shintoku Station to Kushiro Station (Nemuro Main Line)
Kushiro Station is a base for sightseeing in the Kushiro Marsh, and also boasts tourist facilities unique to a port town, such as Fisherman's Wharf MOO. Obihiro Station is the central city of the Tokachi Plain and is known as a hub for Tokachi cuisine, including Butadon (pork rice bowls). The Kushiro Marsh is one of the largest wetlands in Japan and is known as a habitat for valuable wildlife, including the Japanese crane. Obihiro city also has tourist spots such as a park where you can see the autumn leaves earlier than anywhere else in Japan, and Tokachigawa Onsen (hot springs). At Fisherman's Wharf MOO along the Kushiro River, you can enjoy meals made with fresh seafood and watch the sunset from Nusamai Bridge. Nusamai Bridge is a spectacular spot counted as one of the "Three Great Sunset Spots in Japan," and the bridge's railings are adorned with sculptures representing the four seasons.
"OZORA" Stations Served
Main Stations Served
- Sapporo Station
- Shin-Sapporo Station
- Minami-Chitose Station
- Tomamu Station (some trains)
- Shintoku Station
- Obihiro Station
- Kushiro Station
*Stations served may vary depending on the train.
"OZORA" Fares
Representative Section Fares
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare Ticket | Limited Express Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo Station to Kushiro Station | Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the JR Hokkaido official website. | ― | ― |
*Fares may vary depending on whether it is peak or off-peak season.
Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge
The fare for the "OZORA" is the sum of the basic fare and the limited express surcharge to your destination. 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. Please note that seat availability can vary depending on the section of the journey, as many passengers travel to Obihiro.
Sectional Use to Obihiro
If you only use the Sapporo-Obihiro section, a lower fare applies compared to the through fare to Kushiro. It is also widely used for travel within the eastern Hokkaido area. Obihiro's Butadon is a local dish consisting of charcoal-grilled pork with a sweet and savory sauce served over rice, and many famous restaurants serve it. To explore the Kushiro Marsh, we recommend transferring to the Norokko train on the Senmo Main Line, which allows you to enjoy the marsh scenery at a more leisurely pace. The Japanese crane is designated as a special natural monument, and in winter you can observe its elegant form up close at feeding grounds around the Kushiro Marsh. Tokachigawa Onsen is a rare type of hot spring called a moor spring, derived from plants, and is also known as a hot spring for beautiful skin.
During peak seasons, demand for Green Car seats increases, so we recommend booking early.
How to Buy "OZORA" Tickets
Eki-net
JR East's "Eki-net" service allows you to purchase limited express 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 limited express tickets for "OZORA" and tour packages that include sightseeing in the Kushiro Marsh.
How to Buy for Foreign Tourists
The "OZORA" is operated by JR Hokkaido and 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 a Physical Ticket 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.
Can IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments Be Used?
For the sections of the "OZORA" service that fall within the Kitaca area, you can use your transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, for many sections in the eastern Hokkaido area, which are outside the Kitaca area, you will need to purchase your basic fare ticket in advance. The limited express fare portion cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card and must also be purchased as a separate limited express ticket in advance.
On the routes served by the "OZORA", contactless payment via credit card is not available at ticket gates.
*Please note that you cannot ride limited express trains using only your IC card. Limited express fares must be purchased separately. Many sections of the eastern Hokkaido area are outside the IC card usage area.
"OZORA" Seating Information
Seat Types
The "OZORA" is operated using 261 series diesel railcars and consists of Reserved Ordinary Seats and Green Car.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Reserved Ordinary Seat | Standard 2+2 row seating |
| Green Car | Premium seats, with footrests. |
Features of the Seating
The 261 series diesel railcars are designed for long-distance travel on the Sekisho Line and Nemuro Main Line, and the Green Car, in particular, offers generous seat pitch. Some train sets have power outlets at every seat, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. The seat tables are large and designed for easy use with laptops or meals. Some train sets have power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your devices while traveling long distances. The windows are large, providing excellent views of the mountainous sections of the Sekisho Line and the vast Tokachi Plain. In the Green Car, in addition to footrests, reading lights are also provided, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. With these comfortable amenities, you can enjoy your long journey to eastern Hokkaido without getting bored.
Large Luggage Storage Area
A large luggage storage area is provided within the train set.
Barrier-Free Facilities
Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting JR Hokkaido's ticket office or information center in advance.
*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on "OZORA"
On the "OZORA", there is no in-car sales service. If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the bento box shops and stalls around Sapporo, Obihiro, or Kushiro stations. Obihiro station offers Tokachi's famous bento boxes, such as Butadon bento. Around Kushiro station, there is a restaurant district known as the birthplace of robatayaki (charcoal-grilled food), and many travelers stop by to conclude their trip. The Tokachi area is also known as a dairy product producing region, and there are plenty of shops where you can enjoy fresh cheese and soft serve ice cream.
*Onboard sales are not available.
Points to Note When Riding "OZORA"
The "OZORA" has all reserved seats, but since it's a long-distance journey, we recommend booking your seats in advance, especially during peak seasons. In winter, it's susceptible to heavy snowfall, so it's a good idea to check the train's operating status beforehand. If you're planning a resort stay in Tomamu, it's also wise to check the shuttle bus schedule from the station. If you're planning to visit the Kushiro Marsh, it's also helpful to check the transfer times from Kushiro Station to the Senmo Main Line. If you plan to rent a car in the Tokachi area, we recommend making arrangements at the rental office in front of Obihiro Station.
Since there is no onboard service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. Many sections of the eastern Hokkaido area are outside the IC card usage area, so it is recommended to purchase your ticket in advance.
Summary
The "OZORA" is a JR Hokkaido limited express connecting Sapporo Station and Kushiro Station, providing comfortable travel to the eastern Hokkaido area with its 261 series diesel railcars. The long-distance route via the Sekisho Line and Nemuro Main Line offers magnificent Hokkaido scenery, including the mountainous landscapes of the Yubari Mountains, the Tokachi Plain, and the Kushiro Marsh. The JAPAN RAIL PASS and JR Hokkaido Rail Pass are also accepted. Connecting the majestic nature of eastern Hokkaido with some of the prefecture's premier resort areas, this limited express is an essential part of any Hokkaido trip. It offers a wide variety of scenery, a hallmark of long-distance express trains. Even the long 4-hour journey is enjoyable thanks to the ever-changing views. From Sapporo to Kushiro, you can enjoy the grand scale of Hokkaido's scenery along the way, making it a reliable companion for eastern Hokkaido travel. It continues to be a popular starting point for many travelers exploring the tourist destinations of eastern Hokkaido. Please try using it as your travel companion to experience the vast landscapes of Hokkaido.
Enjoy a journey from Sapporo to the Kushiro Marsh in eastern Hokkaido aboard the long-distance express "OZORA", where you can experience the vast landscapes of Hokkaido.
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