New Chitose Airport
Sapporo, JP · 45 km (28 mi) southeast of central Sapporo
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Limousine Taxi Flat-fare taxi · /2 | /2 | 15300 JPY (example fixed-price van CTS–Sapporo reported by traveller) |
| Hokkaido Access Network Bus Bus · Every 15-20 min combined with other operators | 70-80 min | 1100 JPY (typical CTS–Sapporo one-way fare) |
| Hokkaido Chuo Bus Airport Shuttle Bus · Every 15-20 min daytimes | 70-80 min (can be longer in winter) | 1100 JPY (CTS–central Sapporo, typical published one-way) |
| Hokuto Kotsu Airport Liner Bus · /2 | /2 | /2 |
Insider notes
Arrive 2–3 hours early to enjoy the Hokkaido Ramen Dojo; shops often run out of their best bowls by mid-afternoon, especially on weekends and holidays.
Royce', Shiroi Koibito, and other regional snacks are often cheapest in the Domestic Terminal's higher floors than in Sapporo city itself.
Tap through train gates using an IC card like Suica if you want to skip long lines at ticket machines post-arrival.
Welcome
New Chitose Airport, located 45 km southeast of Sapporo, defies the typical airport experience by offering more than just travel services—it's practically a destination itself. Imagine soaking in an onsen with flights taking off in the background or exploring a full chocolate factory and themed areas inspired by Doraemon and Hello Kitty. Yes, it's a regional hub with 23.6 million passengers annually, but it also doubles as something of a local resort mall, with activities and dining that draws visitors to the terminal even without a flight.
At a glance
With two main terminals—Domestic and International—New Chitose handles a bustling amount of air traffic and serves as a hub for airlines like Air Do and Peach. It's linked efficiently to central Sapporo via the JR Rapid Airport Line, which completes the journey in around 37–40 minutes for 1150 JPY. Alternatively, numerous bus lines offer 70–80 minute rides for about 1100 JPY, though snowy weather can stretch travel times.
Terminals & layout
The Domestic Terminal is home to carriers like All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, bustling with dedicated areas like the Hokkaido Ramen Dojo. The International Terminal hosts airlines such as Cathay Pacific and Delta Air Lines, but it's worth heading to the domestic side or central mall for dining and shopping before clearing immigration. Also, take advantage of the connecting facility housing Royce' Chocolate World and other unique attractions meant for exploration.
Getting to and from the city
The JR Chitose Line offers a convenient 30–40 minute ride to Sapporo for 1150 JPY if you time your connection right. Buses are a viable alternative, with the Hokkaido Chuo Bus Airport Shuttle and others priced similarly at 1100 JPY. Be wary during winter, when bus travel can be slower due to snow. Taxis serve as a pricier option, like the Airport Limousine Taxi costing around 15300 JPY.
Traveller essentials
Power outlets and comfortable seating may be sparse in older sections of the Domestic Terminal, so charge devices ahead of time. Overnight stays within the terminals are practically off-limits due to security policies; however, you can book a room at the Air Terminal Hotel or at the New Chitose Airport Onsen for a refreshing overnight experience, especially useful for early departures.
Dining & shopping highlights
New Chitose is heavy on regional flavor, with the Domestic Terminal's Hokkaido Ramen Dojo offering iconic noodles from shops like Ramen Sora and Asahikawa Ramen Baikoken. For dessert enthusiasts, Royce' Chocolate World provides unique airport-exclusive flavors, and you'll find local snack shops well-recommended on the Domestic Terminal's upper floors for quintessential Hokkaido bites.
Lounges
Frequent flyers or those seeking comfort can access six distinct lounges. The Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge and ANA Lounge serve the Domestic side, while the Royal Lounge caters to International travelers. North Lounge and Super Lounge offer additional spots to relax, though the domestic lounges are highlighted for their superior service.
Insider tips
- Time: Arrive 2–3 hours early to enjoy the Hokkaido Ramen Dojo; shops often run out of their best bowls by mid-afternoon, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Money: Royce', Shiroi Koibito, and other regional snacks are often cheapest in the Domestic Terminal's higher floors than in Sapporo city itself.
- Insider: Tap through train gates using an IC card like Suica if you want to skip long lines at ticket machines post-arrival.
- Local: Visiting Royce' Chocolate World isn't just about shopping—watch the mini factory in action to see chocolates being made.
- Avoid: The International Terminal's post-immigration options are limited compared to what you can find landside in the Domestic area or connecting mall.
- Quiet: For a serene escape, the observation deck near the onsen provides excellent runway views with less crowding.