Jr Hokkaido Tohoku - South Hokkaido Rail Pass Ticket (Ordinary - 6 Days)

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Hayabusa Shinkansen through the Seikan Tunnel, the world's longest undersea tunnel, connecting Honshu and Hokkaido.

• Explore the historic Goryokaku Fort and enjoy stunning views of Mount Hakodate from the ropeway.

• Wander through the bustling Susukino entertainment district and savour fresh seafood at Sapporo's Nijo Market.

• Take a scenic local train ride along the rugged Sanriku coastline or through the snowy landscapes of the Tohoku region.

Hidden Gems

• Stop by the quaint station master cat or dog at smaller rural JR stations in Tohoku, which often have unique local mascots and stamp rallies.

• Visit the Otaru Canal area just a short train ride from Sapporo for beautifully preserved merchant warehouses and glass workshops without the massive crowds of central Sapporo.

• Discover the tranquil hot spring town of Noboribetsu, easily accessible via the limited express, where you can soak in the dramatic Jigokudani volcanic landscape.

What Makes it Special

• Offers unparalleled connectivity between two of Japan's most spectacular northern regions without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

• Includes access to the prestigious Hayabusa and Yamabiko Shinkansen services, drastically cutting down travel time between Tokyo, Tohoku, and Hokkaido.

• Provides the freedom to hop on and off local and express trains, allowing for spontaneous detours to charming rural towns and hidden onsens.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The pass is incredibly versatile, but winter from December to February offers magical snowy landscapes and world-class skiing in Hokkaido, while autumn paints the Tohoku mountains in vibrant reds and golds. Summer brings lively festivals like the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori, though you should book Shinkansen seats well in advance during these peak holiday seasons.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic retro steam locomotives or sleek Shinkansen at major hubs like Sendai or Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto during the golden hour for dramatic lighting.

• When riding the coastal lines in Tohoku or the scenic routes around Otaru, sit on the ocean-facing side of the train and use a polarizing filter to reduce window glare.

• Always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash or tripods inside the train cabins or on crowded station platforms.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Train etiquette in Japan is strictly observed, so keep your voice down, set your phone to silent mode, and avoid eating on local or commuter trains. When riding long-distance Shinkansen or limited express trains, eating your ekiben and drinking beverages at your seat is perfectly acceptable and part of the cultural experience. Always queue orderly on the marked platform lines and let passengers exit the train before you board.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the spectacular Aomori Nebuta Matsuri in early August, featuring massive, illuminated floats parading through the streets just a short walk from Aomori Station.

• Enjoy the breathtaking Sapporo Snow Festival in February, where you can take a quick train ride to see massive snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park.

• Witness the stunning cherry blossoms in late April at Hirosaki Castle Park, easily accessible via the Ou Main Line from the Tohoku Shinkansen network.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially when storing luggage in the overhead racks or the dedicated baggage areas at the back of Shinkansen cabins.

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding, and never attempt to hold the doors open as they close automatically and forcefully.

• If travelling during winter, wear slip-resistant shoes and dress in warm layers, as station platforms and the areas immediately outside can be icy and freezing.