{
 "checked_on": "2026-10-03",
 "luggage": {
  "title": "Luggage forwarding",
  "detail": "Yamato Transport's Ski TA-Q-BIN carries skis, boards and bags to the resort and back. Hand them over at least two days before you arrive (three days in some areas). They reach the resort the day before you do. Parcels over 30 kg are not accepted. Skis and boards need a cover: {400} for skis, {600} for a snowboard. Airport TA-Q-BIN works the same way on the way home: hand the bags over two days before the flight (three in some areas) and collect them at the airport counter on the day.",
  "links": [
   {
    "prefix": "Service details",
    "name": "Yamato Transport (Ski TA-Q-BIN)",
    "url": "https://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/ytc/en/send/services/ski/"
   },
   {
    "prefix": "Service details",
    "name": "Yamato Transport (Airport TA-Q-BIN)",
    "url": "https://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/ytc/en/send/services/airport/"
   }
  ]
 },
 "destinations": [
  {
   "code": "niseko",
   "name": "Niseko",
   "gateways": "Most guests fly into New Chitose Airport near Sapporo. Some start from central Sapporo. The nearest train stations are JR Kutchan and JR Niseko, reached through Otaru.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Resort Liner from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport, domestic and international terminals",
     "to": "Hirafu Welcome Center, Niseko Village (Green Leaf, Hilton) and Annupuri. One bus a day goes to Hanazono.",
     "time": "About 2 h 45 min to Hirafu Welcome Center. Up to about 3 h 40 min to the last Annupuri stop.",
     "often": "8 buses a day from the airport, 10:00 to 19:30 from the domestic terminal. 7 a day back to the airport.",
     "season": "1 December 2026 to 30 March 2027 to Niseko. 2 December 2026 to 31 March 2027 to the airport.",
     "booking": "You must reserve every bus. The operator only takes guests who are staying in the area where the bus starts or ends.",
     "fare": "Adult {6000}, child (3 to 11) {5000}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "The first three buses of the day leave from the domestic terminal only. The 13:50, 15:50, 17:50 and 19:30 buses also stop at the international terminal ten minutes later.",
      "Leave 45 minutes between landing and the bus after a domestic flight, and 90 minutes after an international flight. If a late flight makes you miss the bus, the operator moves you to the next bus with space. A seat is not guaranteed.",
      "The 19:30 bus is the last of the day. It runs from 7 December 2026 and reaches Hirafu at 22:25."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/101chitose_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 45 min",
      "fare": "{6000}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport and JR Chitose Station",
     "to": "Annupuri, Niseko Village (Hilton, Green Leaf) and Hirafu Welcome Center",
     "time": "About 3 h to Annupuri and about 3 h 30 min to Hirafu.",
     "often": "Last winter: 4 buses a day each way (10:00, 13:40, 14:40 and 15:30 from the airport).",
     "season": "Last winter: 13 December 2025 to 22 March 2026.",
     "booking": "You must reserve, online or by phone, by 18:00 the day before. Seats are not numbered.",
     "fare": "Adult {6000} one way, {10000} return. Child {3000} one way.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 timetable and fare; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "Do not wear ski or snowboard boots on the bus. Skis and boards go in a case.",
      "Buses have a toilet and make a rest stop on the way.",
      "With a return ticket you can go out on the Chitose line and come back on the Sapporo line, or the other way round."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus",
       "url": "https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/en/course/7768"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 3 h 30 min",
      "fare": "{6000}",
      "book": "Yes, by 18:00 the day before"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Ski buses from Sapporo",
     "by": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus, Hokkaido Access Network (Resort Liner)",
     "from": "Sapporo: JR Sapporo Station north side, Makomanai subway station or city hotels",
     "to": "Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri",
     "time": "Chuo Bus: about 3 h from Sapporo Station to Hirafu. Resort Liner: leaves the hotels between 7:35 and 8:25 and reaches Hirafu at 11:10.",
     "often": "Resort Liner: 1 bus a day each way. Chuo Bus: 2 a day each way last winter (7:50 and 9:20 from Sapporo Station).",
     "season": "Resort Liner: 2 December 2026 to 31 March 2027. Chuo Bus last winter: 13 December 2025 to 22 March 2026.",
     "booking": "You must reserve on both.",
     "fare": "Adult {6000} one way on both. The Chuo Bus return fare was {10000} last winter.",
     "dated": "Chuo Bus details are from winter 2025-26; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "Resort Liner picks up at named Sapporo hotels. You may be asked to change bus when leaving Sapporo."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus",
       "url": "https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/en/course/7768"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/sapporo_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 3 h",
      "fare": "{6000}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Resort Liner between Furano and Niseko",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "Furano hotels",
     "to": "Rusutsu and Niseko, with a change of bus at New Chitose Airport",
     "time": "About 7 h. The 7:45 bus from the Furano Station area reaches Hirafu at 14:45.",
     "often": "2 buses a day from Furano (7:45 and 13:00).",
     "season": "2 December 2026 to 30 March 2027.",
     "booking": "You must reserve.",
     "fare": "Adult {7500}, child {6500}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "The bus goes to New Chitose Airport first. You wait there and change to the Niseko bus."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/furano_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 7 h",
      "fare": "{7500}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "JR train through Otaru to Kutchan or Niseko",
     "by": "JR Hokkaido",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport Station or Sapporo Station",
     "to": "JR Kutchan Station or JR Niseko Station, then a bus or taxi to the resort",
     "time": "Airport to Otaru: about 72 min by Rapid Airport train. Sapporo to Otaru: about 32 min. Otaru to Niseko: about 90 min by local train.",
     "often": "Few trains run beyond Otaru.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Change trains at Otaru.",
      "Buses and taxis run from Kutchan and Niseko stations to each ski area."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Niseko United",
       "url": "https://www.niseko.ne.jp/en/niseko-access"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 40 min from the airport, plus the change",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Taxi",
     "title": "Flat-rate taxi from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport",
     "to": "Your accommodation in Niseko",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On request, in winter.",
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Ask at least 3 days before you travel. Pay in advance by credit card.",
     "fare": "Standard taxi (1 to 2 people) {42500}. Alphard (2 to 4) {49500}. Jumbo taxi (6 to 8) {49700}. All fees included. Add {13000} for departures between 22:00 and 6:55.",
     "dated": "Fare table dated November 2025",
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Access Network",
       "url": "https://kashikiri.access-n.jp/Order/taxi/En/fixed/winter"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {42500} per car",
      "book": "Yes, 3 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Rental car",
     "title": "Rental car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "New Chitose Airport or Sapporo",
     "to": "Niseko",
     "time": "About 2 h from Sapporo.",
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Book ahead in winter. Rental companies have desks at New Chitose Airport and in Niseko.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "From Sapporo the usual road is Route 230 over Nakayama Pass: about 92 km to Hirafu and 105 km to Annupuri."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Niseko Tourism",
       "url": "https://nisekotourism.com/arrival"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h from Sapporo",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Yes, in winter"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Niseko United shuttle bus",
     "detail": "Links Hanazono, Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri. The 2026-27 timetable is provisional: daytime buses from 28 November 2026 to 4 April 2027, about every 40 to 60 minutes from 7:40, and four evening runs from 12 December 2026 to 22 March 2027. Dates can change with the snow. Free with a valid All Mountain pass (a points pass loses one point per ride). Without a pass it costs {200} to {1100} by distance. Contactless payment is accepted.",
     "dated": "Provisional 2026-27 timetable",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Niseko United",
       "url": "https://www.niseko.ne.jp/en/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/united-shuttle-2026_en.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "Hirafu and Hanazono village shuttles",
     "detail": "Last winter the Hirafu Village shuttle ran three loops every 20 to 30 minutes, with limited seats. The Hanazono shuttle linked Hanazono and Hirafu from 8:00 into the evening.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 details; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Niseko Tourism",
       "url": "https://nisekotourism.com/arrival"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "Local buses and taxis",
     "detail": "Niseko Bus and Donan Bus run local routes between Kutchan, Niseko and Rusutsu, with a night bus in winter. Call a taxi by phone or with the GO app.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Niseko Tourism",
       "url": "https://nisekotourism.com/arrival"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "Leave a gap between landing and the bus. Resort Liner asks for 45 minutes after a domestic flight and 90 minutes after an international one.",
    "The last Resort Liner leaves the airport at 19:30 (from 7 December 2026). After that, book a taxi ahead or stay a night near the airport or in Sapporo.",
    "Every ski bus from the airport and from Sapporo must be reserved. Last winter Chuo Bus closed bookings at 18:00 the day before.",
    "Put skis and boards in a bag. Do not wear ski boots on the bus."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "hakuba",
   "name": "Hakuba",
   "gateways": "From Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airport), most guests go through Nagano Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, or take a highway bus from Shinjuku. Buses arrive at Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. Trains arrive at JR Hakuba Station.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train and bus",
     "title": "Shinkansen to Nagano, then express bus",
     "by": "JR East (Hokuriku Shinkansen), Alpico Kotsu (bus)",
     "from": "Tokyo Station",
     "to": "Nagano Station, then a bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal",
     "time": "About 1 h 40 min by Shinkansen, then about 1 h 10 min by bus. Hakuba Valley gives 2 h 50 min from Tokyo at best.",
     "often": "Bus: 15 a day from Nagano last winter.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "The ordinary Nagano to Hakuba bus cannot be reserved (see the bus card). Nagano Snow Shuttle sells a Shinkansen and coach package: book it at least 14 days ahead.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": "Bus count is from winter 2025-26; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "The bus leaves from stop 26 at Nagano Station East Exit, within 10 minutes' walk of the ticket gates.",
      "Luggage space on the Shinkansen is limited and cannot be reserved for large items. One shuttle operator advises sending ski bags ahead."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Hakuba Valley",
       "url": "https://www.hakubavalley.com/en/access_en/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Bus timetable",
       "name": "Alpico",
       "url": "https://visit-nagano.alpico.co.jp/timetable/hakuba-nagano-winter?hsLang=en"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Train and coach package",
       "name": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
       "url": "https://naganosnowshuttle.com/bus-train/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 50 min",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Bus cannot be reserved"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "Limited express Azusa from Shinjuku",
     "by": "JR East",
     "from": "Shinjuku Station",
     "to": "JR Hakuba Station",
     "time": "About 4 h.",
     "often": "One direct train a day.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "From Nagoya: limited express Shinano to Matsumoto (about 2 h), then a JR train to Hakuba (about 1 h 30 min)."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Hakuba Valley",
       "url": "https://www.hakubavalley.com/en/access_en/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 4 h",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Alpico express bus from Nagano Station",
     "by": "Alpico Kotsu",
     "from": "Nagano Station East Exit, stop 26",
     "to": "Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. Some buses also stop at Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba Station and Snow Peak Land Station.",
     "time": "About 1 h 10 min to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal.",
     "often": "Last winter: 15 buses a day from Nagano, 8:15 to 20:30, with extra buses at busy times.",
     "season": "Last winter's timetable ran from 13 December 2025 to 31 March 2026. The route runs all year.",
     "booking": "Ordinary buses: tickets on the day only, first come, first served. Separate reservation-only buses can be booked online up to 2 months ahead.",
     "fare": "{3500} one way to Hakuba Happo, Goryu or Hakuba Station. Children half price.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 timetable and fare; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "No toilet on the bus and no rest stop.",
      "Buy a ticket at the machine in the Nagano Station JR ticket office or at Alpico's Nagano Station office (6:20 to 19:00). You can also pay the driver in cash or by contactless Visa.",
      "No limit on the number or size of bags in the hold. Skis and boards need a cover."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Alpico (ordinary buses)",
       "url": "https://visit-nagano.alpico.co.jp/timetable/hakuba-nagano-winter?hsLang=en"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Alpico (reservation-only buses)",
       "url": "https://visit-nagano.alpico.co.jp/timetable/hakuba-nagano-winter-reserved?hsLang=en"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 1 h 10 min",
      "fare": "{3500}",
      "book": "Same-day tickets only"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Highway bus from Shinjuku",
     "by": "Alpico Kotsu, Keio Bus",
     "from": "Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku)",
     "to": "Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba-cho and Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal",
     "time": "About 5 h 15 min to Hakuba Happo.",
     "often": "Last winter: 5 daytime buses a day (7:35 to 17:05) and one overnight bus at 23:05.",
     "season": "Last winter's timetable ran from 6 December 2025 to 31 March 2026. The route runs all year.",
     "booking": "Reserve online from 1 month before you travel. Tickets are sold at the counter on the day only if seats are left.",
     "fare": "{6400} to {7800} one way. The 23:05 overnight bus costs {2000} more.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 timetable and fare; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "Alpico buses: two items per person advised, for example one suitcase and one pair of skis. Keio buses: one suitcase, or one pair of skis, or one board per person.",
      "The overnight bus does not carry skis or snowboards.",
      "Buses normally have a toilet and make a rest stop."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Alpico",
       "url": "https://visit-nagano.alpico.co.jp/timetable/hakuba-shinjuku-winter?hsLang=en"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 5 h 15 min",
      "fare": "{6400} to {7800}",
      "book": "Yes, from 1 month ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Shared shuttle",
     "title": "Nagano Snow Shuttle from Narita and Haneda",
     "by": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "JR Hakuba Station",
     "time": "By direct coach: about 5 h 10 min to 6 h 40 min from Narita, about 4 h 25 min to 6 h from Haneda.",
     "often": "From Narita: 2 direct coaches a day (9:30 and 20:30) and up to 6 coach and train services. From Haneda: up to 4 coaches a day (7:45, 8:00, 10:15 and 21:15).",
     "season": "19 December 2026 to 7 March 2027. Some services start on 26 December or 9 January, or end on 28 February.",
     "booking": "Book online in advance.",
     "fare": "Shown only in the operator's booking system.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "All coaches arrive and leave at JR Hakuba Station. Getting from there to your lodging is separate.",
      "The coach and train services go into Tokyo, use the Shinkansen to Nagano and finish by coach.",
      "The late coaches arrive at about 01:40."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
       "url": "https://naganosnowshuttle.com/snow-shuttle/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "4 h 25 min to 6 h 40 min",
      "fare": "In the booking system",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Shared taxi",
     "title": "Chuo Taxi Airport Direct shared taxi",
     "by": "Chuo Taxi",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Your door in Hakuba",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On demand. Airport pick-ups from 7:00, for flights landing up to 23:59.",
     "season": "Winter fares apply from 20 December 2026 to 31 March 2027.",
     "booking": "Book at least 7 days ahead with your flight number and time.",
     "fare": "Per person on the shared plan. From Haneda: {23000} for one passenger, down to {19000} each for seven. From Narita: {71000} for one, {35500} each for two, {23500} each for three, down to {20500} each for seven.",
     "dated": "Winter price list dated August 2025",
     "notes": [
      "Vans take up to 7 passengers. Flights that land or leave between midnight and 5:00 are not served.",
      "One suitcase and two pieces of hand luggage per person are free. A ski or board bag costs {1000}, and only one small ski or board bag per group fits the shared plan.",
      "Guests who do not speak Japanese must add the meet-and-greet service ({3600}) and use WhatsApp."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Chuo Taxi",
       "url": "https://airport.chuotaxi.co.jp/english/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {19000} per person",
      "book": "Yes, 7 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Private van",
     "title": "Private van from the airports",
     "by": "Chuo Taxi (Full Vehicle Plan)",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Your door in Hakuba",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On demand.",
     "season": "Winter fares apply from 20 December 2026 to 31 March 2027.",
     "booking": "Book at least 7 days ahead.",
     "fare": "{133000} per vehicle from Haneda, {143500} from Narita.",
     "dated": "Winter price list dated August 2025",
     "notes": [
      "Luggage is free if it fits in the vehicle."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Chuo Taxi",
       "url": "https://airport.chuotaxi.co.jp/english/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {133000} per vehicle",
      "book": "Yes, 7 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Rental car",
     "title": "Rental car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Tokyo",
     "to": "Hakuba",
     "time": "About 4 h from Tokyo.",
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Winter tyres are required from late November to late March.",
      "Routes: Nagano Expressway to Azumino IC, or Joshin-Etsu Expressway to Nagano IC."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort",
       "url": "https://hakubaescal.com/winter-en/access/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 4 h from Tokyo",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Hakuba Valley shuttle bus",
     "detail": "Line V links all the Hakuba Valley ski areas. Last winter it cost {800} for adults and {400} for children, and was free with a Hakuba Valley season or day pass. Tickets were sold online only, with no cash. You cannot board a full bus, and the last runs of the day are busy.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 details; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Hakuba Valley",
       "url": "https://www.hakubavalley.com/en/access_en/shuttlebus_en/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "Night bus and free resort shuttles",
     "detail": "Last winter the Hakuba Night Bus cost {500} ({250} for a child), paid online or in cash. Some resorts run free shuttles for their own guests, for example Goryu and Hakuba 47.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 details; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Hakuba Valley",
       "url": "https://www.hakubavalley.com/en/access_en/shuttlebus_en/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage",
     "extra": "Alpico also suggests sending extra bags ahead by courier when you use its highway buses."
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "The ordinary Nagano to Hakuba bus cannot be reserved. Buy the ticket on the day and queue early at busy times.",
    "There is no toilet on the Nagano to Hakuba bus and no stop on the way.",
    "Alpico's direct buses from Narita and Haneda did not run in the last two winters. Do not plan around them.",
    "Last winter the Shinjuku buses could be booked from one month ahead, and the reservation-only Nagano buses from two months ahead."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "furano",
   "name": "Furano",
   "gateways": "Asahikawa Airport is the closest airport, about an hour away. New Chitose Airport and Sapporo are the other starting points. Buses stop at JR Furano Station, the Kitanomine hotels and the Shin Furano Prince Hotel.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Lavender bus from Asahikawa Airport",
     "by": "Furano Bus",
     "from": "Asahikawa Airport. The route starts at JR Asahikawa Station.",
     "to": "JR Furano Station, Kitanomine (Hotel Naturwald, ski area car park) and Shin Furano Prince Hotel",
     "time": "About 1 h from the airport to Furano Station. About 1 h 20 min to Shin Furano Prince Hotel.",
     "often": "7 buses a day each way. From the airport between 10:37 and 20:02.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "No reservations. Take a numbered ticket when you get on and pay when you get off.",
     "fare": "{790} from Asahikawa Airport to Furano Station. {940} to Shin Furano Prince Hotel.",
     "dated": "Timetable revised 1 April 2026; fares revised 1 October 2025",
     "notes": [
      "It is an ordinary route bus. It is not timed to meet flights or trains.",
      "From JR Asahikawa Station the fare to Furano Station is {900}."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Furano Bus",
       "url": "https://www.furanobus.jp/rosen/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 1 h",
      "fare": "{790}",
      "book": "No, cannot be reserved"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Resort Liner from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport, domestic and international terminals",
     "to": "Shin Furano Prince Hotel, Hotel Naturwald, Hotel Bell Hills, Furano Resort Hotel Edel Warme and Natulux Hotel (JR Furano Station)",
     "time": "About 2 h 15 min to 2 h 25 min to Shin Furano Prince Hotel. About 2 h 50 min to the Furano Station stop.",
     "often": "4 buses a day from the airport: 10:00, 12:20, 14:50 and 17:50.",
     "season": "1 December 2026 to 30 March 2027 to Furano. 2 December 2026 to 31 March 2027 to the airport.",
     "booking": "You must reserve.",
     "fare": "Adult {6000}, child {5000}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "The 10:00 and 12:20 buses leave from the domestic terminal only.",
      "Going back to the airport: if the expressway is closed, the bus uses ordinary roads and arrives about 40 minutes late. The operator asks you to allow 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 150 minutes before an international one.",
      "The bus makes a rest stop at Shimukappu."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/chitose_furano.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 20 min",
      "fare": "{6000}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Resort Liner from Asahikawa Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "Asahikawa Airport",
     "to": "Natulux Hotel (JR Furano Station), the Kitanomine hotels and Shin Furano Prince Hotel",
     "time": "About 1 h 5 min to Furano Station. 1 h 40 min to Shin Furano Prince Hotel.",
     "often": "1 bus a day, at 10:00 from the airport.",
     "season": "1 December 2026 to 30 March 2027.",
     "booking": "You must reserve.",
     "fare": "Adult {4000}, child {3000}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/asahikawa_ap_furano.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 1 h 5 min",
      "fare": "{4000}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Highway bus from Sapporo (Kosoku Furano-go)",
     "by": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus",
     "from": "Sapporo Station bus stop and Sapporo Terminal",
     "to": "JR Furano Station",
     "time": "About 2 h 40 min from Sapporo Station to Furano Station.",
     "often": "7 buses a day from Sapporo, 8:50 to 18:40.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "Pay when you get off, in cash or by IC card. The operator's page gives no way to reserve.",
     "fare": "{2700} one way, {5100} return.",
     "dated": "Timetable dated 1 July 2026; winter timetable not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "Buses have a toilet. There is no rest stop.",
      "If the bus is full you may be given a fold-down seat or asked to take the next bus."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Hokkaido Chuo Bus",
       "url": "https://www.chuo-bus.co.jp/highway/index.cgi?ope=det&n=9&t=173&o=1"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 40 min",
      "fare": "{2700}",
      "book": "No booking listed"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Resort Liner from Sapporo",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "Sapporo Prince Hotel",
     "to": "Kitanomine Gondola and Shin Furano Prince Hotel",
     "time": "About 2 h 30 min to 2 h 45 min.",
     "often": "1 bus a day, at 8:50 from Sapporo.",
     "season": "4 January 2027 to 14 March 2027.",
     "booking": "You must reserve.",
     "fare": "Adult {6000}, child {5000}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Going back, the Kitanomine pick-up is the Kitanomine car park (terminal second floor), not Hotel Naturwald."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/sapporo_furano.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 30 min",
      "fare": "{6000}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "JR Furano Line from Asahikawa",
     "by": "JR Hokkaido",
     "from": "JR Asahikawa Station, about 37 min by bus from Asahikawa Airport",
     "to": "JR Furano Station, then a bus or taxi (12 to 17 min) to the Prince hotels",
     "time": "About 70 min from Asahikawa to Furano.",
     "often": "About 15 trains a day.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "If you come by train from Sapporo, IC cards cannot be used between Takikawa and Furano. Buy a paper ticket.",
      "The direct Furano Lavender Express from Sapporo is a summer train (June to September in 2026)."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "JR Hokkaido",
       "url": "https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/travel/furanobiei/train/index.html"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Shin Furano Prince Hotel",
       "url": "https://www.princehotels.com/furano/map-direction/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 70 min from Asahikawa",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Taxi",
     "title": "Flat-rate taxi from the airports",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport or Asahikawa Airport",
     "to": "Your accommodation in Furano",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On request, in winter.",
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Ask at least 3 days before you travel.",
     "fare": "From New Chitose Airport: {48400} (standard taxi) to {54600} (jumbo taxi). From Asahikawa Airport: {16500} to {24000}. Add {13000} for departures between 22:00 and 6:55.",
     "dated": "Fare table dated November 2025",
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Access Network",
       "url": "https://kashikiri.access-n.jp/Order/taxi/En/fixed/winter"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {16500} per car",
      "book": "Yes, 3 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Rental car",
     "title": "Rental car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "New Chitose Airport, Sapporo or Asahikawa Airport",
     "to": "Furano",
     "time": "About 2 h 10 min from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo. About 1 h from Asahikawa Airport.",
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "These are summer driving times from the tourism association. Allow more time in winter."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Furano Tourism Association",
       "url": "https://www.furanotourism.com/en/static/access.php"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "1 h to 2 h 10 min (summer roads)",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Local buses from Furano Station",
     "detail": "The Lavender bus reaches the Kitanomine side of the ski area in about 10 minutes and the Shin Furano Prince Hotel in about 18 minutes. The tourism association also lists a winter evening shuttle between the town and the Prince hotels.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Furano Tourism Association",
       "url": "https://www.furanotourism.com/en/static/access.php"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Furano Bus",
       "url": "https://www.furanobus.jp/rosen/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "Resort Liner to other resorts",
     "detail": "In winter 2026-27 Resort Liner runs two buses a day from Furano to Rusutsu and Niseko, with a change at New Chitose Airport ({7500}, about 7 h). It also lists Furano to Tomamu and Furano to Asahikawa buses.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/furano_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "All routes",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "The Lavender bus takes no bookings and does not wait for flights. Check the airport departure times against your landing time.",
    "Resort Liner must be booked. Its last bus from New Chitose Airport is at 17:50.",
    "On the way home, leave extra time. Resort Liner arrives about 40 minutes late at New Chitose when the expressway is closed."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "myoko",
   "name": "Myoko",
   "gateways": "From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano or to Joetsumyoko, then a local train to Myoko-Kogen Station. Akakura Onsen is 15 to 20 minutes from the station by bus or taxi. Airport coaches run from Narita and Haneda in winter.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "Shinkansen to Nagano, then local train",
     "by": "JR East (Hokuriku Shinkansen), Shinano Railway (Kita-Shinano Line)",
     "from": "Tokyo Station, about 1 h from Narita Airport by Narita Express",
     "to": "Myoko-Kogen Station, then a bus or taxi to Akakura and the other villages",
     "time": "About 1 h 30 min to 2 h to Nagano, then about 40 to 45 min to Myoko-Kogen.",
     "often": "Local trains run about once an hour.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved. Buy the local train ticket at Nagano, on the train or at Myoko-Kogen.",
     "fare": "Tokyo to Nagano: {7810} non-reserved or {8540} reserved. Nagano to Myoko-Kogen: {850}.",
     "dated": "Fares as listed by Myoko Tourism in January 2025; check current fares",
     "notes": [
      "Myoko Tourism recommends this route for Myoko-Kogen Station.",
      "The change at Nagano can be as short as 5 to 10 minutes.",
      "The last Shinkansen from Tokyo is usually around 22:00."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/narita-to-myoko/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Train times",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/nagano-tokyo-train-timetable/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 10 min to 2 h 45 min",
      "fare": "{7810} plus {850}",
      "book": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "Shinkansen to Joetsumyoko, then Myoko Haneuma Line",
     "by": "JR East (Hokuriku Shinkansen), Echigo Tokimeki Railway",
     "from": "Tokyo Station or Kanazawa Station",
     "to": "Joetsumyoko Station, then a local train to Myoko-Kogen Station",
     "time": "Tokyo to Joetsumyoko: 1 h 50 min at best (about 1 h from Kanazawa). Then about 35 to 40 min to Myoko-Kogen.",
     "often": "About 17 local trains a day towards Myoko-Kogen.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": "Local train timetable posted July 2024; check current times",
     "notes": [
      "From Osaka: Thunderbird limited express to Tsuruga, then the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Joetsumyoko."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Train times",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/joestu-myoko-station-train-times/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 30 min, plus the change",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Local bus from Myoko-Kogen Station to Akakura",
     "by": "Myoko city route bus (Akakura Line)",
     "from": "Myoko-Kogen Station",
     "to": "Shin-Akakura and Akakura Onsen",
     "time": "About 15 to 20 min.",
     "often": "9 buses a day in the current green season timetable. A winter timetable starts on 1 December.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "No reservation. Pay on the bus.",
     "fare": "{350} to Shin-Akakura, {380} to Akakura.",
     "dated": "Green season timetable and fares (May 2026); winter 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "The Suginosawa Line from the same station goes to Ikenotaira and Suginosawa.",
      "A medium taxi between Akakura Onsen and Myoko-Kogen Station is about {3000} (guide price)."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/local-bus-service/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "15 to 20 min",
      "fare": "{350} to {380}",
      "book": "No, pay on the bus"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Shared shuttle",
     "title": "Nagano Snow Shuttle from Narita and Haneda",
     "by": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Akakura Onsen (Akakura bus stop)",
     "time": "About 4 h 45 min to 7 h by coach.",
     "often": "From Narita: 2 direct coaches a day (9:30 and 20:30) and 2 services that use the train. From Haneda: up to 4 coaches a day (7:45, 8:00, 10:15 and 21:15).",
     "season": "19 December 2026 to 7 March 2027. Some services start on 26 December or 9 January, or end on 28 February.",
     "booking": "Book online in advance.",
     "fare": "Shown only in the operator's booking system.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Coaches run through Nagano, and some through Madarao.",
      "The late coaches arrive at about 02:00."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
       "url": "https://naganosnowshuttle.com/snow-shuttle/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "4 h 45 min to 7 h",
      "fare": "In the booking system",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Taxi",
     "title": "Taxi",
     "by": "Kogen Taxi",
     "from": "Stations or airports",
     "to": "Akakura Onsen",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On request, all year.",
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Booking is by phone in Japanese. Your hotel or the tourist office can arrange it. Cash only.",
     "fare": "Winter guide prices from Akakura Onsen for a medium taxi (4 to 5 people): Myoko-Kogen Station {3000}, Joetsumyoko Station {13500}, Nagano City {18000}, Haneda {90000}, Narita {103000}.",
     "dated": "Guide prices from July 2024; check current prices",
     "notes": [
      "A large taxi for 9 people costs more."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/local-taxi-service/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "{3000} from Myoko-Kogen Station",
      "book": "Yes, by phone in Japanese"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Rental car",
     "title": "Rental car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Tokyo, Nagano or Niigata",
     "to": "Myoko",
     "time": null,
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Book a 4WD car with snow tyres ahead. Supply is limited.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Snow tyres are essential in winter and 4WD is recommended. Cars collected in snow areas such as Nagano or Niigata come with snow tyres at no extra charge.",
      "Expressway exits: Myoko-Kogen IC, Nakago IC or Arai Smart IC on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/car-rental/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Yes, supply is limited"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Mt Myoko Shuttle",
     "detail": "Links Akakura Onsen, Akakura Kanko, Ikenotaira and Suginohara. Last winter it ran from 20 December to 22 March, cost {1000} one way and needed no reservation. Morning buses left Akakura between about 8:00 and 10:00 and came back from Suginohara in the afternoon.",
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 details; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/winter-bus-service/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "Local buses and taxis",
     "detail": "City buses run from Myoko-Kogen Station to Akakura and Suginosawa, and from Sekiyama Station to Seki and Tsubame Onsen ({440} to {500}). Taxis take cash only.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Myoko Tourism",
       "url": "https://myokotourism.com/local-bus-service/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "At Nagano the change to the local train can be 5 to 10 minutes. You can get on and pay on the train or at Myoko-Kogen.",
    "In the current timetable the last bus from Myoko-Kogen Station to Akakura is at 19:13. The winter timetable starts on 1 December and may differ. After the last bus, book a taxi (cash only).",
    "If you drive, do not come without snow tyres."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "nozawa",
   "name": "Nozawa Onsen",
   "gateways": "The nearest station is Iiyama on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, 1 h 39 min from Tokyo at best. A bus runs from Iiyama Station to the village in about 25 minutes. Airport coaches from Narita and Haneda run in winter.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train and bus",
     "title": "Shinkansen to Iiyama, then Nozawa Onsen Liner",
     "by": "JR East (Hokuriku Shinkansen), Nozawa Onsen Kotsu (bus)",
     "from": "Tokyo Station or Kanazawa Station",
     "to": "Iiyama Station, then a bus to Nozawa Onsen Chuo Terminal",
     "time": "Tokyo to Iiyama: 1 h 39 min at best (1 h 15 min from Kanazawa, 11 min from Nagano). Then about 25 min by bus.",
     "often": "About 11 Shinkansen a day from Tokyo stop at Iiyama.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved. The bus needs no reservation.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": "Train count as of 15 February 2026; check current times",
     "notes": [
      "At Iiyama Station leave by the Chikumagawa exit. The Nozawa Onsen bus goes from stop 4."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort",
       "url": "https://en.nozawaski.com/access/coming-train-bus/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Bus timetable",
       "name": "Nozawa Onsen Kotsu",
       "url": "https://nozawaonsen.info/en/nozawa-onsen-liner/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h 5 min at best, plus the change",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Shinkansen seats can be reserved"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Nozawa Onsen Liner from Iiyama Station",
     "by": "Nozawa Onsen Kotsu",
     "from": "Iiyama Station, stop 4",
     "to": "Nozawa Onsen Chuo Terminal",
     "time": "About 25 min.",
     "often": "10 buses a day each way. From Iiyama between 8:45 and 21:20.",
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": "No reservation. Buy a ticket from the machine by the bus stop before you get on. IC cards such as Suica are accepted on the bus.",
     "fare": "Adult {600}, child (6 to 12) {300}, one way.",
     "dated": "Timetable for 30 March to 30 November 2026; winter 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "Groups of more than 20 should contact the operator first.",
      "The Nagaden local bus from stop 2 also reaches Nozawa Onsen in about 40 minutes, through Iiyama town and Kijimadaira. Pay on the bus."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Nozawa Onsen Kotsu",
       "url": "https://nozawaonsen.info/en/nozawa-onsen-liner/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 25 min",
      "fare": "{600}",
      "book": "No, buy a ticket at the stop"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Shared shuttle",
     "title": "Nagano Snow Shuttle from Narita and Haneda",
     "by": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Nozawa Onsen Chuo Terminal",
     "time": "About 4 h 25 min to 6 h 30 min by coach.",
     "often": "From Narita: 2 direct coaches a day (9:30 and 20:30) and up to 3 services that use the train. From Haneda: up to 4 coaches a day (7:45, 8:00, 10:15 and 21:15).",
     "season": "19 December 2026 to 7 March 2027. Some services start on 26 December or 9 January, or end on 28 February.",
     "booking": "Book online in advance.",
     "fare": "Shown only in the operator's booking system.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "All coaches arrive and leave at the Chuo Terminal in the village centre.",
      "The late coaches arrive at about 01:40."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
       "url": "https://naganosnowshuttle.com/snow-shuttle/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "4 h 25 min to 6 h 30 min",
      "fare": "In the booking system",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Shared taxi",
     "title": "Chuo Taxi Airport Direct shared taxi",
     "by": "Chuo Taxi",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Your door in Nozawa Onsen",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On demand.",
     "season": "Winter fares apply from 20 December 2026 to 31 March 2027.",
     "booking": "Book at least 7 days ahead with your flight details.",
     "fare": "Per person on the shared plan. From Haneda: {23000} for one passenger, down to {19000} each for seven. From Narita: {71000} for one, {35500} each for two, {23500} each for three, down to {20500} each for seven.",
     "dated": "Winter price list dated August 2025",
     "notes": [
      "A ski or board bag costs {1000} extra. Only one small ski or board bag per group fits the shared plan."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Chuo Taxi",
       "url": "https://airport.chuotaxi.co.jp/english/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {19000} per person",
      "book": "Yes, 7 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Private van",
     "title": "Private van from the airports",
     "by": "Chuo Taxi (Full Vehicle Plan)",
     "from": "Narita Airport or Haneda Airport",
     "to": "Your door in Nozawa Onsen",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On demand.",
     "season": "Winter fares apply from 20 December 2026 to 31 March 2027.",
     "booking": "Book at least 7 days ahead.",
     "fare": "{133000} per vehicle from Haneda, {143500} from Narita.",
     "dated": "Winter price list dated August 2025",
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Chuo Taxi",
       "url": "https://airport.chuotaxi.co.jp/english/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {133000} per vehicle",
      "book": "Yes, 7 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Car",
     "title": "By car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Iiyama IC",
     "to": "Nozawa Onsen car parks",
     "time": null,
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": "Winter 2025-26 parking fees; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "The village car parks are Nagasaka (P1), Karasawa (P2) and Nanbara (P3).",
      "Last winter, overnight parking at P2 cost {1500} for the first night for a regular car and {500} for each extra night."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort",
       "url": "https://en.nozawaski.com/access/coming-by-car/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Village free shuttle bus",
     "detail": "A free bus runs between the village (Central Terminal) and Nagasaka Bus Terminal at the ski area from 12 December 2026 to 28 March 2027, from about 8:10 to 17:00. It comes every 25 to 60 minutes on weekdays, and every 10 to 25 minutes at weekends, on public holidays and over New Year. You can follow its position live online.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort",
       "url": "https://en.nozawaski.com/access/village-free-shuttle-bus/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "title": "On foot",
     "detail": "The village is compact. Nagano Snow Shuttle describes the Chuo Terminal as within walking distance of many lodgings, and the Yu-Road moving walkway links the village to the Hikage base.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Nagano Snow Shuttle",
       "url": "https://naganosnowshuttle.com/destinations/nozawa-onsen/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "Buy the Nozawa Onsen Liner ticket at the machine beside the stop before you get on.",
    "In the current timetable the last Liner from Iiyama leaves at 21:20. Check the winter timetable before you book a late Shinkansen.",
    "At Iiyama Station leave by the Chikumagawa exit. The Nozawa Onsen bus goes from stop 4."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "rusutsu",
   "name": "Rusutsu",
   "gateways": "New Chitose Airport is the main starting point, about two hours away by bus. A daily bus also runs from central Sapporo.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Rusutsu Resort bus from New Chitose Airport (Bigruns)",
     "by": "Kamori Kanko (Rusutsu Resort)",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport, domestic and international terminals",
     "to": "Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention, The Westin Rusutsu Resort and The Vale Rusutsu",
     "time": "About 2 h.",
     "often": "Up to 7 buses a day from the airport, 10:15 to 17:00 from the domestic terminal. Three of them start on 19 December 2026.",
     "season": "28 November 2026 to 30 March 2027 from the airport. 29 November 2026 to 31 March 2027 from Rusutsu.",
     "booking": "You must reserve. Online booking closes at midnight seven days before you travel. After that, book through the resort's contact form. Bookings open in late October 2026.",
     "fare": "{5000} one way if you book online, {5500} otherwise. Same fare for adults and children aged 4 and over. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "The 10:15 and 11:15 buses do not stop at the international terminal.",
      "The bus works for domestic flights landing by 16:15 and international flights landing by 15:20. For later flights the resort points to Resort Liner.",
      "Cancelling costs 40 per cent the day before, 50 per cent on the day and 100 per cent if you do not show up."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Rusutsu Resort",
       "url": "https://rusutsu.com/en/access-shuttle-bus-new-chitose-airport/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h",
      "fare": "{5000}",
      "book": "Yes, 7 days ahead online"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Hokkaido Resort Liner from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport",
     "to": "Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention and The Westin Rusutsu Resort",
     "time": "About 1 h 55 min to 2 h 5 min.",
     "often": "8 buses a day from the airport, 10:00 to 19:30 from the domestic terminal. The buses go on to Niseko.",
     "season": "1 December 2026 to 30 March 2027. The 19:30 bus runs from 7 December.",
     "booking": "You must reserve.",
     "fare": "Adult {5500}, child {4500}, one way. Winter 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "The 19:30 bus reaches Rusutsu at 21:35, later than the resort's own last bus.",
      "One set of ski equipment and one bag per person go in the hold."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/101chitose_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h",
      "fare": "{5500}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Buses from Sapporo",
     "by": "Kamori Kanko (Rusutsu Resort), Hokkaido Access Network (Resort Liner)",
     "from": "Central Sapporo: the Kamori Building near JR Sapporo Station, or city hotels",
     "to": "Rusutsu Resort hotels",
     "time": "About 2 h.",
     "often": "Resort Liner: 1 bus a day each way (hotel pick-ups 7:35 to 8:25, Rusutsu at 10:20). Resort bus: 1 a day each way last winter (8:00 from Sapporo, 17:00 back).",
     "season": "Resort bus: from 28 November 2026. Resort Liner: 2 December 2026 to 31 March 2027.",
     "booking": "You must reserve on both. The resort bus is online only, by 15:00 the day before.",
     "fare": "Resort Liner: adult {5500} one way. Resort bus: free until last winter. A fare applies from 28 November 2026 and the amount is not yet announced.",
     "dated": "Resort bus times are from winter 2025-26; 2026-27 fare and times not yet published",
     "notes": [
      "The resort bus stops for about 10 minutes at Nakayama Pass on the way out."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Rusutsu Resort",
       "url": "https://rusutsu.com/en/access-shuttle-bus-sapporo/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/sapporo_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 2 h",
      "fare": "{5500} (Resort Liner)",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Taxi",
     "title": "Flat-rate taxi from New Chitose Airport",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport",
     "to": "Rusutsu",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On request, in winter.",
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Ask at least 3 days before you travel.",
     "fare": "Standard taxi {39500}. Alphard {45500}. Jumbo taxi {45700}. All fees included. Add {13000} for departures between 22:00 and 6:55.",
     "dated": "Fare table dated November 2025",
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Access Network",
       "url": "https://kashikiri.access-n.jp/Order/taxi/En/fixed/winter"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {39500} per car",
      "book": "Yes, 3 days ahead"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Between Rusutsu and Niseko",
     "detail": "Resort Liner's airport buses stop at Rusutsu on the way to Niseko. Last winter Rusutsu Resort also ran a Powder Day Trip bus from Hirafu Welcome Center (8:30 out, 16:30 back, about 45 minutes, {9000} return) from 3 January to 28 February 2026. It is for day skiers only and does not carry suitcases.",
     "dated": "Day trip bus details are from winter 2025-26; 2026-27 not yet published",
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Resort Liner",
       "url": "https://www.access-n.jp/winter2026/en/skibus/detail/101chitose_rusutsu_niseko.html"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable and booking",
       "name": "Rusutsu Resort (day trip bus)",
       "url": "https://rusutsu.com/en/access-shuttle-bus-niseko/"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "Book the resort's Bigruns bus online at least seven days ahead to get the {5000} fare.",
    "If you land after about 16:15 (domestic) or 15:20 (international), the resort bus will not work. Use the later Resort Liner or a taxi.",
    "The resort's Sapporo bus is no longer free from 28 November 2026."
   ]
  },
  {
   "code": "kiroro",
   "name": "Kiroro",
   "gateways": "You reach Kiroro through Otaru or Sapporo. From New Chitose Airport, take the JR Rapid Airport train to Otaru-Chikko Station and go on by resort bus or taxi.",
   "options": [
    {
     "mode": "train",
     "kind": "Train",
     "title": "JR train to Otaru-Chikko, then bus or taxi",
     "by": "JR Hokkaido",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport Station or Sapporo Station",
     "to": "JR Otaru-Chikko Station, then the resort bus or a taxi to Kiroro",
     "time": null,
     "often": null,
     "season": "All year.",
     "booking": null,
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "In the 2026-27 peak timetable the resort's Otaru bus picks up at Otaru-Chikko Station (North Plaza) at 8:25, 9:05, 14:00 and 17:50.",
      "A taxi from Otaru costs from {12000} one way and takes about 40 minutes. No taxis wait at Kiroro, so book the return in advance."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/access-winter/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Check with operator"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Resort bus from Otaru",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Otaru hotels, the Otaru Station area and JR Otaru-Chikko Station",
     "to": "Kiroro Mountain Center, Club Med Kiroro Peak, Yu Kiroro and Club Med Kiroro Grand",
     "time": "About 45 to 50 min from Otaru-Chikko Station. About 1 h 15 min from central Otaru.",
     "often": "Up to 6 buses a day to Kiroro in peak season (one of them runs four days a week only). Up to 7 a day back.",
     "season": "28 November 2026 to 25 April 2027. Peak timetable from 19 December 2026 to 14 March 2027.",
     "booking": "Book through the links on the resort's access page.",
     "fare": "Adult {2200}, child (3 to 12) {1600}, one way. 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Some buses run only on certain days of the week between 19 December 2026 and 28 February 2027.",
      "The 17:50 bus from Otaru-Chikko Station is the last of the day. It goes to the Club Med hotels."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Booking",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/access-winter/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/8e280f5a48146398e3c325e3fe8991be.pdf"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "45 to 50 min from Otaru-Chikko",
      "fare": "{2200}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Kiroro Ski Bus from Sapporo",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Sapporo hotels and Sapporo Station North Exit",
     "to": "Kiroro Mountain Center, the Club Med hotels, Yu Kiroro and Snow Activity World",
     "time": "About 1 h 30 min from Sapporo Station.",
     "often": "1 bus a day each way: 8:20 from Sapporo Station, 16:30 back from the Mountain Center.",
     "season": "10 December 2026 to 11 April 2027, every day.",
     "booking": "Book through the links on the resort's access page.",
     "fare": "Adult {2800}, child {1900}, one way. 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Hotel pick-ups start at 7:40.",
      "A separate Kiroro Powder Express from Sapporo runs from 19 December 2026 to 28 February 2027 and gives early access to the gondola."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Booking",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/access-winter/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/1f1d2b2c0e05c7978311a04b88a12ad4.pdf"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 1 h 30 min",
      "fare": "{2800}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "bus",
     "kind": "Bus",
     "title": "Bus from Niseko",
     "by": null,
     "from": "Hirafu No.1 Parking Lot, Niseko",
     "to": "Kiroro Mountain Center and Snow Activity World",
     "time": "About 1 h 10 min.",
     "often": "1 bus a day each way on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 8:00 out, 15:50 back.",
     "season": "20 December 2026 to 20 February 2027. Not on 1 January or from 4 to 11 February 2027.",
     "booking": "Book through the links on the resort's access page.",
     "fare": "Adult {3200}, child {2500}, one way. 2026-27 fare.",
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Booking",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/access-winter/"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/5ae13bb867389bb8510e98b9da953eb9.pdf"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "About 1 h 10 min",
      "fare": "{3200}",
      "book": "Yes"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Taxi",
     "title": "Flat-rate taxi",
     "by": "Hokkaido Access Network",
     "from": "New Chitose Airport or Sapporo",
     "to": "Kiroro",
     "time": null,
     "often": "On request, in winter.",
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Ask at least 3 days before you travel.",
     "fare": "From New Chitose Airport: {43570} (standard taxi) to {49770} (jumbo taxi). From Sapporo: {39740} to {44740}. Tolls included. Add {13000} for departures between 22:00 and 6:55.",
     "dated": "Fare table dated November 2025",
     "notes": [],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Fares and booking",
       "name": "Hokkaido Access Network",
       "url": "https://kashikiri.access-n.jp/Order/taxi/En/fixed/winter"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "From {39740} per car",
      "book": "Yes, 3 days ahead"
     }
    },
    {
     "mode": "other",
     "kind": "Rental car",
     "title": "Rental car",
     "by": null,
     "from": "New Chitose Airport or Sapporo",
     "to": "Kiroro",
     "time": null,
     "often": null,
     "season": null,
     "booking": "Arrange the car before you arrive. There are no rental counters at the resort.",
     "fare": null,
     "dated": null,
     "notes": [
      "Route: Sasson Expressway to Asari IC, then Routes 956 and 393.",
      "Outdoor parking for about 1,900 cars is free."
     ],
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Route details",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/access-winter/"
      }
     ],
     "table": {
      "time": "Not stated",
      "fare": "Check with operator",
      "book": "Yes, before you arrive"
     }
    }
   ],
   "around": [
    {
     "title": "Within the resort",
     "detail": "The Otaru and Sapporo buses stop at the Mountain Center (ski area), both Club Med hotels, Yu Kiroro and Snow Activity World. Check which stop is yours when you book.",
     "dated": null,
     "links": [
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort (Otaru bus)",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/8e280f5a48146398e3c325e3fe8991be.pdf"
      },
      {
       "prefix": "Timetable",
       "name": "Kiroro Resort (Sapporo bus)",
       "url": "https://www.kiroro.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/1f1d2b2c0e05c7978311a04b88a12ad4.pdf"
      }
     ]
    },
    {
     "use": "luggage"
    }
   ],
   "tips": [
    "No taxis wait at Kiroro. Book the return taxi before you travel.",
    "From the airport, the simplest public route is the train to Otaru-Chikko Station and the resort bus from there. The last bus is at 17:50.",
    "The Niseko bus runs three days a week only."
   ]
  }
 ]
}