Is there such an animal?

We have launched a new program in Sapporo, and as a result some of the
applicants are going to need connecting flights (mostly from either
Tokyo or Nagoya). One of the applicants from Dublin has mentioned that
the Tokyo-Chitose/Chitose-Tokyo quote he received was for the
equivalent of 3 times what I paid for Nagoya-Chitose return (which
included 4 nights hotel).

I usually just fly up on ANA or whatever my local travel agent puts me
on. Is there a low cost alternative? I can try to arrange flights for
students if required, but it would be nicer if some info could be
provided to them that may enable them to find cheaper flights
themselves.