Romantic Snow Train from Sapporo to Otaru: A Guide to Fun Stops Along the Way

It only takes 30 minutes to travel from Otaru to Sapporo on the JR Hakodate Line, but there are many scenic spots and shops worth stopping for along the way! Here are some highlights you can check out along the way to enjoy a slow-paced trip and the winter atmosphere of Hokkaido. First stop: Asari Station | Hidden Hot Spring Town Take the JR train from Otaru and you'll reach Asari Station in about 10 minutes. This is a quiet hot spring town, perfect for those who enjoy slow-paced travel. There are several day-use hot springs near the station where you can soak in a hot bath to drive away the winter chill! Recommended hot spring: Asarigawa Onsen "Korakuen," where you can enjoy a hot spring buffet after a bath. It's very healing! If you're short on time, you can also take a stroll around the station and take photos of the winter countryside. The whole atmosphere is very relaxing. Second stop: Teine Station | Polar Bear Coffee ☕️ Continue on the train towards Sapporo for about 20 minutes to reach Teine Station, where you must try the popular local coffee shop, Polar Bear Coffee (しろくまコーヒー)! This coffee shop is polar bear-themed and super cute, with a signature latte featuring polar bear latte art! 🐻‍❄️ In winter, we recommend ordering a hot chocolate with a Hokkaido specialty dessert, such as milk pudding or Hokkaido cheesecake, for a warm and healing experience. 📸 Photo spot: The coffee shop has polar bear-themed merchandise and many handmade decorations, making it perfect for taking photos to share on social media. Final stop: Sapporo Station | A Paradise for Night Views and Shopping Once you arrive in Sapporo, head straight to the JR Tower Observatory in front of the station, one of the best places to overlook the night view of Sapporo. There are also Daimaru Department Store and Sapporo ESTA Shopping Center near the station, where you can shop and eat all in one place! 🍜 Don't forget to try the famous Sapporo ramen shop "Shirakaba Sansou"! 🎟️ Train Guide Train type: JR Hakodate Line Rapid Train (ordinary and reserved seats available) Fare: JPY 750 one-way from Otaru to Sapporo, about 30 minutes. Tips: We recommend sitting on the ocean side of the train to enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Japan in winter! 🚉 The short journey from Otaru to Sapporo is full of highlights, with little surprises at every stop along the way. Next time, don't just rush through the journey. Take some time to enjoy the little pleasures along the way!