In this video, the YouTuber ‘とっちゃん 旅行’ takes viewers on a budget-friendly intercity journey across Hokkaido aboard the Kushiro Tokkyu New Star Go (釧路特急ニュースター号), a highway bus operated by Hokkaido Bus. Filmed on March 13, 2025, the trip starts at Sapporo’s Susukino Streetcar Stop (市電すすきの前) and ends at Kushiro Station (釧路駅前), covering a 5.5-hour trip for only 4,770 yen thanks to an online ticket discount.

The video begins with a preview of the journey and a detailed seat tour showing the 3-row seating arrangement, offering both comfort and space for long-distance travel. The bus departs Sapporo at 7:39 AM, with a few brief stops along the way. Early into the journey, the bus pauses near Odori Bus Center (大通りバスセンター前) and in front of Sapporo Station (札幌駅前), making it convenient for travelers starting from various city locations.

The route includes two rest stops: the first at Shimukappu PA (占冠PA), a highway parking area offering toilets and snacks, and another at Kamishihoro PA (上浦幌PA). These stops give travelers a chance to stretch and refresh before continuing through Hokkaido’s vast rural landscapes. Other locations on the route include Ootanoshike Station (大楽毛駅前) and a brief drive-by of Tottori Shrine (鳥取神社), providing insight into the local cultural landmarks.

The journey concludes at Kushiro Station at 1:05 PM, making it a highly efficient and budget-savvy option for exploring eastern Hokkaido. Highway buses like the New Star Go are a great alternative to trains when traveling longer distances in Japan, especially for travelers interested in sightseeing along less-populated routes. For those preparing a trip across Hokkaido, this video is an excellent reference for comfort and connectivity.