A new hotel with a foreigner-friendly information counter is planned near Sapporo Station's south exit, as JR reveals the station's updated design in Hokkaido.

The new look of JR Sapporo Station has been revealed.

The East Concourse will be transformed into a space that feels futuristic, serving as a passageway connecting to the Shinkansen station and the redevelopment building in the Kita 5 Nishi 1 and 2 area.

A “Midori no Madoguchi” ticket counter, an information desk for foreign visitors, and a tourist information center will be placed nearby, enhancing services for the increasing number of tourists.

More than 35 years have passed since the station was elevated.

Due to aging facilities, a large-scale renovation has been announced.

“This West Concourse, where many passengers come and go, will also change significantly with this renovation.”

The West Concourse, used by many people, will become a space where visitors can feel Hokkaido’s history and culture.

Furthermore, to alleviate congestion, the positions of ticket gates, lockers, and benches will be reviewed.

The new waiting room will feature a design inspired by a kamakura snow hut, creating a warm and comfortable space to wait for trains even in winter.

Another highlight is the development of commercial facilities within the station.

The area will be expanded to approximately 1.5 times its current size, and the number of stores will increase from 18 to around 30.

The concept is “DO 3 STORY.”

Plans include opening souvenir shops, restaurants, and convenience stores.

The commercial facilities are targeted to open by the end of fiscal year 2027, and the overall station renovation work is expected to continue until the beginning of fiscal year 2029.

Plans also include opening a new hotel a five-minute walk from the south exit of Sapporo Station.

The hotel will have about 280 rooms and is scheduled to open in fiscal year 2028, aiming to create vibrancy including the station area.

JR Sapporo Station

JR Sapporo Station is the central railway hub in Sapporo, Japan, originally opened in 1880 as part of the Horonai Railway, which was developed to transport coal. The station has undergone several major renovations, with the current modern structure completed in 2003, featuring a large shopping complex and direct connections to the Sapporo Subway. It serves as a key gateway to Hokkaido, linking the city to other parts of Japan via the Hokkaido Shinkansen and limited express trains.

Shinkansen station

The Shinkansen station refers to the high-speed rail stations in Japan that serve the Shinkansen bullet train network, which began operation in 1964 with the Tokaido Shinkansen line. These stations, such as Tokyo Station and Shin-Osaka Station, are modern transportation hubs that have significantly reduced travel times between major cities, revolutionizing Japanese travel and contributing to regional economic growth. The development of the Shinkansen system was a landmark achievement in engineering and symbolizes Japan’s post-war technological advancement.

Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island, was historically known as Ezo and inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before large-scale Japanese colonization began in the late 19th century. It was officially renamed Hokkaido in 1869, and development accelerated with the establishment of the Hokkaido Development Commission. Today, it is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, national parks, ski resorts, and distinct culture, including its renowned seafood and

JR Sapporo Station

JR Sapporo Station is a major railway hub in Sapporo, Japan, originally opened in 1880 as part of Hokkaido’s early rail development. The current modern station building, completed in 2003, integrates a large shopping complex and serves as the central terminus for the Hokkaido Shinkansen, local trains, and subway lines. It is a key gateway for travelers exploring Hokkaido, blending historical significance with contemporary urban convenience.

Shinkansen station

The Shinkansen station refers to the stops along Japan’s high-speed rail network, known as the Shinkansen or “bullet train,” which began operations in 1964 with the Tokaido Shinkansen line connecting Tokyo and Osaka. These stations are modern, efficient hubs that revolutionized travel by drastically reducing journey times and are often integrated with local transit systems. Many stations, such as Tokyo Station or Kyoto Station, also serve as architectural landmarks and cultural gateways to their respective cities.

Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, was historically known as Ezo and inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before Japanese colonization began in the late 19th century. It was officially renamed Hokkaido in 1869 and developed rapidly through agriculture, mining, and infrastructure projects. Today, it is famous for its natural landscapes, ski resorts, and annual snow festivals.

A new hotel with a foreigner-friendly information counter is planned near Sapporo Station’s south exit, as JR reveals the station’s updated design in Hokkaido.

JR Sapporo Station

Shinkansen station

Hokkaido

JR Sapporo Station

Shinkansen station

Hokkaido

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