乗Japan Train Trips
English
How to ride trains in Japan

Hokkaido

JR Hokkaido one-man trains: use the front car, pay in cash

JR北海道 ワンマン列車の乗り方

On JR Hokkaido's one-man trains you board and get off at the very front, and IC cards and credit cards are not accepted — bring exact change.

  • Board at the front
  • Exit at the front
  • Pay when you get off
  • No IC cards
  • Fare by distance
↓ IN↑ OUT◀ Front (driver)Rear ▶
Board at the front Exit at the front

Most of JR Hokkaido's local trains outside the Sapporo area run as one-man trains. JR Hokkaido's own guidance differs from the usual rear-door routine: you use the front door, and fares are paid in cash on board.

▶

乗り方の流れ

Step by step

  1. 01Board at the front door

    JR Hokkaido says to board through the front door. On the newer 737 and H100 trains, press the button beside the door. Move to the front car as early as possible.

  2. 02Take a numbered ticket

    If you have no ticket, take a numbered ticket from the dispenser.

  3. 03Check the fare display

    Match your number on the display (on the 737 and H100, the station name) to see your fare.

  4. 04Pay in cash

    Put the fare (or your ticket) and the numbered ticket into the fare box beside the driver. IC cards and credit cards can't be used. The change machine takes ¥1,000 notes and coins only.

  5. 05Exit at the very front

    Get off through the door right behind the driver.

Good to know

  • Rural Hokkaido trains can be hours apart — plan around the timetable, especially in winter.
  • JAPAN RAIL PASS and Hokkaido Rail Pass holders show the pass to the driver.

Sources

Rules differ between railways and change from time to time — last checked 3 Nov 2026. Follow signs and staff on the day.