There are 2 way(s) to get from Hakodate to Aomori
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
The Hokkaido Shinkansen line is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Always verify if your specific pass covers this route to avoid unexpected costs. If it does, the train is often your best value.
Consider what kind of journey you prefer. The Shinkansen is efficient and modern, while the ferry offers sea views and a different pace. Choose based on whether you prioritize speed or a scenic ride.
For Shinkansen, reserving seats is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Ferry tickets can also be booked ahead online to secure your spot, particularly if traveling with a car.
Remember that Shinkansen travel times are station-to-station. Factor in travel to Hakodate-Hokuto Station and from Shin-Aomori to your final destination in Aomori when comparing with the ferry's port-to-port journey.
While not directly relevant to Hakodate-Aomori, remember that famous spots like Kawaguchiko (Mount Fuji) or Shirakawa-go are often only accessible by bus, not train. Always double-check your final leg of the journey.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip from Hakodate to Aomori? You’re right to question your options, as Japan’s transport network can be brilliant but also bewildering. This route isn't just about speed; it's about finding the balance between cost, comfort, and the actual time you spend traveling, door-to-door. Forget the theoretical fastest train; let's look at what genuinely works for an independent traveler like you, whether it's the Shinkansen, a local JR train, or even a ferry.
For this specific journey, you primarily have two main choices: the Hokkaido Shinkansen or a scenic ferry crossing. The Shinkansen is your fastest bet, whisking you from Hakodate-Hokuto to Shin-Aomori in about an hour for approximately €15. If you're looking for a different experience, the ferry offers a more leisurely four-hour journey for around €28, providing picturesque views across the Tsugaru Strait. While there are local JR trains, they're generally less direct and longer than the Shinkansen for this specific inter-island link.
So, which to choose? If your Japan Rail Pass covers it, the Shinkansen is a no-brainer for its speed and efficiency, making it the smart call to maximize your travel time. If you're paying point-to-point and prefer a unique travel experience over pure speed, or just want to save a few euros and enjoy the sea, the ferry is a perfectly viable and charming alternative. Always compare the overall travel time including transfers to decide what truly saves you time and money.
Frequently asked questions — Hakodate → Aomori
You have two main choices: the Hokkaido Shinkansen or a ferry. The Shinkansen offers a fast, direct connection from Hakodate-Hokuto to Shin-Aomori, while the ferry provides a more leisurely and scenic route across the Tsugaru Strait, departing from Hakodate Port to Aomori Port. Both are reliable options depending on your preference for speed versus experience.
A Shinkansen ticket from Hakodate-Hokuto to Shin-Aomori costs around €15. If you opt for the ferry, you can expect to pay about €28 for a standard passenger ticket. These prices are indicative and can vary slightly based on booking time, specific service, and class. Always check current prices before booking.
By Shinkansen, the journey from Hakodate-Hokuto to Shin-Aomori takes approximately 1 hour. If you choose the ferry, the crossing from Hakodate Port to Aomori Port is significantly longer, at around 4 hours. Remember to factor in transfer times to and from the respective stations or ports when calculating your total door-to-door travel duration.
If you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) that covers the Hokkaido Shinkansen line, then yes, taking the Shinkansen is typically the most cost-effective and fastest option, as your ticket cost is already covered. For this single leg, if you're paying point-to-point and not using a JR Pass for other long-distance travel, you might find the ferry or individual Shinkansen ticket comparable or even cheaper overall.
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For speed and convenience, especially if you have a JR Pass, the Shinkansen is superior. For a unique, scenic experience and a slightly lower cash price (if not using a JR Pass), the ferry is a fantastic alternative. If you're looking to save money on accommodation, neither is an overnight option, so factor in hotel costs for both.
✨ Why visit Aomori?
- ✓ Explore Hirosaki Castle Park, especially vibrant during cherry blossom season (late April/early May).
- ✓ Visit the Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE to experience the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival year-round.
- ✓ Savor fresh seafood and local sake at the Aomori Gyosai Center's Nokkedon market.
- ✓ Hike or drive through the scenic Oirase Gorge, stunning with autumn foliage.
- ✓ Discover the unique Sannai-Maruyama Jomon Site, an ancient archaeological village.
☀️ When to visit Aomori?
HUMID CONTINENTAL CLIMATE
Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and Autumn (October-November) for stunning fall foliage, offering pleasant weather.
What to do in Aomori?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Aomori?
For an independent francophone traveler, Aomori warrants 3-5 days. This allows for exploring the city's sights, the Nebuta Warasse Museum, and day trips to scenic spots like Lake Towada or the Hakkoda Mountains. With less time, focus on the city center and local cuisine; for longer stays, delve deeper into the surrounding natural beauty and traditional culture.
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