[TRAVEL]: Sapporo Streetcar (札幌市電 tram) Service - Things you need to know for first timer
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
The Sapporo Streetcar 札幌市電, also known as the "shiden," is a convenient and scenic way to explore Sapporo, Hokkaido. This tram system forms a loop around the city's central and western districts, making it an accessible mode of transportation for both tourists and locals. With its retro charm and modern convenience, the streetcar allows passengers to experience Sapporo from a unique perspective while offering easy access to various touristy attractions, shopping areas, and local eateries.
Navigating the Sapporo Streetcar is fairly simple, especially if you have a map or a navigation app to guide you. The trams operate at regular intervals, ensuring that passengers don’t have to wait too long for their ride. While they can get crowded, particularly during rush hours and peak tourist seasons, the Japanese are well-accustomed to packed public transport. If you find yourself in a full tram, simply squeeze in and follow the unspoken etiquette of making space for others. However if you're lucky you can also get an empty tram like mine and you can get seats right by the window to enjoy the view throughout the ride.
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| The tram gives off a retro vibe |
The SAPICA card, a prepaid IC card, is also accepted on the streetcar, subway, and local buses. The card costs ¥2,000, with ¥1,500 available for fare use and a refundable ¥500 deposit. SAPICA cards can be purchased at subway stations, commuter pass sales offices, and bus terminals.
Areas Covered and Tourist Information
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The streetcar's loop encompasses 21 stops, connecting key areas such as:
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Sapporo
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| Don't forget to ring the bell to get off the tram, to notify the driver that you're hopping off on the next stop |
Operation Hours and Frequency
Trams operate daily from around 6:00 AM to approximately 11:00 PM.
During daytime hours, services run at intervals of roughly 7 to 8 minutes, with increased frequency during weekday peak periods.
Hop on the Sapporo Streetcar for a ride that blends historical charm with modern convenience, making it a delightful way to explore the city while experiencing local daily life. Sapporo is a compact and walkable city, with bright, clean underground passageways that offer decent shopping, so the tram isn’t a necessity for getting around.
However, if you’ve got time to spare, why not take a scenic ride to the end of the line and back to Susukino? Incorporating the streetcar into your travel plans allows for a relaxed and enjoyable way to soak in the city’s diverse attractions while adding a touch of nostalgia to your journey.
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