Locals in Japan

If you’re an international traveler visiting Hokkaido, Japan, and have an early morning or late-night flight at New Chitose Airport (CTS), staying at a nearby hotel is highly recommended. New Chitose Airport is located approximately 40 minutes by train or 70-80 minutes by bus from central Sapporo, making it less convenient to travel to and from the city during off-peak hours. This guide will introduce you to the airport’s essential information, access options, and a variety of hotels near the airport that cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free start or end to your Hokkaido adventure.

Airport Overview:

New Chitose Airport is the largest airport in Hokkaido, serving both domestic and international flights. The airport consists of three main areas:

1. Domestic Terminal: Handles domestic flights within Japan
2. International Terminal: Serves international flights
3. Airport Shopping Area: A spacious shopping mall with various restaurants, shops, and entertainment options

💡The dining and shopping experiences at this iconic Hokkaido airport are truly remarkable. If you have an interest in Japanese cuisine, you are sure to fall in love with this airport. We highly recommend allocating ample time to fully enjoy all that it has to offer, as we will further explore later in this article.

Train Access:

The airport is well-connected to Sapporo and other parts of Hokkaido via trains. The JR Chitose Line’s Airport Rapid Service takes approximately 40 minutes to reach Sapporo Station from the airport. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with the earliest train departing the airport around 6:00 AM and the last train leaving around midnight.

Bus Access:

Several bus companies operate between New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, with the journey taking approximately 70-80 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Bus services are available from early morning until late at night, with some companies offering free Wi-Fi and charging ports on board.

Taxi Access:

Taxi stands are located outside both the domestic and international terminals. A taxi ride from New Chitose Airport to central Sapporo typically takes around 60-90 minutes and costs approximately ¥15,000-20,000, depending on traffic conditions and your specific destination.

Book here for convenient and affordable shuttle services to and from New Chitose Airport.

Important Note:

⚠️During winter months, heavy snowfall can cause flight cancellations and disruptions to train services to and from New Chitose Airport. Be sure to check the status of your flight and transportation options in advance during this season. The airport is designed to accommodate travelers during these situations, offering a wide range of amenities such as a movie theater, hot spring, and numerous dining options to keep you entertained throughout the day. However, if you absolutely want to avoid potential flight cancellations, we strongly recommend considering airports on the eastern side of Hokkaido, such as Kushiro Airport or Obihiro Airport, as the eastern region experiences less snowfall and adverse weather conditions compared to the western side, including Sapporo.

Airport Attractions:

New Chitose Airport offers more than just a gateway to Hokkaido. It boasts a wide array of attractions, making it a destination in itself:

1. Hokkaido Ramen Dojo: This popular food court features famous ramen shops from across Hokkaido, including Sapporo’s miso ramen, Asahikawa’s shoyu ramen, and unique creations like the shrimp ramen from Ebisoba Ichigen. (This place is so popular and always has a long waiting line…) With 10 renowned ramen shops to choose from, you can sample the best of Hokkaido’s ramen culture in one convenient location.
2. Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park: This indoor theme park is dedicated to the beloved Japanese cartoon character, Doraemon. Enjoy family-friendly attractions like the Doraemon Time Machine, interactive workshops, and a themed café serving adorable Doraemon-inspired dishes and drinks, such as the Doraemon Taiyaki and Doraemon Latte.
3. Royce’ Chocolate World: Witness the chocolate-making process at this one-of-a-kind facility, featuring a factory tour, museum, and shop. Royce’ Chocolate World offers exclusive airport-only products, making it the perfect place to purchase unique and delicious souvenirs for friends and family back home.
4. New Chitose Airport Onsen: Relax and unwind at this natural hot spring facility before or after your flight. The onsen features indoor and outdoor baths, saunas, and a restaurant serving light meals and Hokkaido specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb). With its convenient location and ample amenities, the New Chitose Airport Onsen is the perfect place to rejuvenate during your travels.
5. Observation Deck: Get a close-up view of airplanes taking off and landing from this open-air deck, accessible from April to November. New Chitose Airport’s unique parallel runway layout allows visitors to watch both domestic and international flights, making it a must-visit spot for aviation enthusiasts and photography buffs.

The dining and shopping experiences at this iconic Hokkaido airport are truly remarkable. If you have an interest in Japanese cuisine, you are sure to fall in love with this airport. We highly recommend allocating ample time to fully enjoy all that it has to offer, as we will further explore later in this article.

Hotel Recommendations:

Two hotels located within the New Chitose Airport premises that have excellent access to the terminal:

The following seven hotels are all within walking distance of Chitose Station, the area closest to New Chitose Airport with a concentration of accommodation options:

Hoping you have a wonderful time fully enjoying all that New Chitose Airport has to offer!

New Chitose Airport is not only a gateway to Hokkaido but also a destination filled with exciting attractions, delicious food, and unique experiences. When planning your trip, consider allocating extra time to explore the airport’s offerings. Staying at a hotel near the airport is a smart choice for international travelers with early morning or late-night flights, especially during winter when weather conditions can affect transportation. By familiarizing yourself with the airport’s layout, access options, and the recommended hotels in this guide, you can ensure a comfortable and convenient stay, allowing you to make the most of your Hokkaido adventure.

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