What is New Chitose Airport?
The largest air gateway in Hokkaido, New Chitose Airport (CTS).
Located about 50 km southeast of Sapporo, it is an essential airport for both domestic and international travelers.
With numerous flights from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka,
it serves as a hub for traveling to Sapporo and various tourist destinations across Hokkaido.
✅ The largest international airport in Hokkaido
✅ Convenient access to Sapporo, Otaru, and Furano
✅ Enjoy top-class airport cuisine in Japan
New Chitose Airport is popular as a tourist destination itself,
with a variety of gourmet food, hot springs, shopping, and a cinema!
What Makes New Chitose Airport Special?
1. Excellent Access to Sapporo and Other Areas in Hokkaido!
New Chitose Airport offers very convenient access to major cities within Hokkaido.
By Train (Recommended!)
- JR Rapid Airport (about 37 minutes to Sapporo Station)
By Bus
- Limousine Bus to Sapporo (about 70 minutes)
- Direct buses to Otaru, Furano, and Niseko are also available
By Taxi
- About 60 minutes to Sapporo City (fare approximately 15,000 yen)
Rental Car
- Many rental car companies around New Chitose Airport, perfect for driving around Hokkaido!
2. A Feast of Hokkaido Cuisine! Dining at New Chitose Airport
New Chitose Airport is renowned as one of the top airports in Japan for enjoying gourmet food.
You can savor Hokkaido specialties like ramen, seafood, and sweets.
“Hokkaido Ramen Dojo” (Domestic Terminal 3F)
- A gathering of famous ramen shops from Hokkaido!
- Miso ramen specialty “Ebisoba Ichigen” is particularly popular!
“Donburi Chaya” (Domestic Terminal 3F)
- A popular spot for fresh seafood bowls
- Recommended: Uni, Ikura, and Crab three-color bowl
“Yukijirushi Parlor” (Domestic Terminal 2F)
- Enjoy rich soft-serve ice cream unique to Hokkaido!
“Royce' Chocolate World” (Domestic Terminal 3F)
- Café attached to the factory of Hokkaido’s famous confectionery “Royce'”
Upon arriving at New Chitose Airport, you can easily enjoy Hokkaido cuisine right inside the airport!
3. A Souvenir Paradise! Shopping Information at New Chitose Airport
New Chitose Airport has numerous stores offering unique Hokkaido souvenirs.
“Kinotoya” (Domestic Terminal 2F)
- Cheese tarts made with Hokkaido butter are extremely popular!
“Shiroi Koibito (ISHIYA SHOP)” (Domestic Terminal 2F)
- Purchase the iconic Hokkaido confectionery “Shiroi Koibito”!
“Jaga Pokkuru Theater” (Domestic Terminal 2F)
- Specialty store for the popular snack “Jaga Pokkuru”!
“Rokkatei” (Domestic Terminal 2F)
- Marusei Butter Sandwich is a classic Hokkaido souvenir!
New Chitose Airport is the perfect place for souvenir shopping!
4. Hot Springs & Cinema Inside the Airport!? Plenty of Entertainment Facilities
New Chitose Airport offers a variety of entertainment facilities for travelers.
“New Chitose Airport Onsen” (Domestic Terminal 4F)
- Relax in the hot springs while waiting for your flight!
- Popular with early morning and late-night flight users due to nap spaces!
“New Chitose Airport Theater” (Domestic Terminal 4F)
- Unique in Japan, the airport has its own cinema!
- Enjoy movies while waiting for your flight
“Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park” (Domestic Terminal 3F)
- A Doraemon theme park, very popular with children!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access to Major Tourist Spots from New Chitose Airport
Sapporo → About 37 minutes (JR Rapid Airport)
Otaru → About 80 minutes (Transfer at JR Rapid Airport)
Furano → About 2 hours (JR Limited Express + Local Line)
Noboribetsu Onsen → About 60 minutes (JR Limited Express)
2. Nearby Hotel Information
✅ Air Terminal Hotel (Directly connected to the airport)
✅ Hotel Grand Terrace Chitose (Free shuttle bus available)
✅ ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose (For a comfortable stay)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
✅ New Chitose Airport is packed with "gourmet, hot springs, and entertainment"!
✅ Convenient access to major tourist spots in Hokkaido like Sapporo, Otaru, and Furano
✅ A wide variety of Hokkaido souvenirs available, making shopping enjoyable
✅ A unique airport where you can enjoy hot springs and a cinema while waiting for your flight
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I buy a SIM card at New Chitose Airport?
A: Yes, you can purchase them at convenience stores or vending machines within the airport.
Q: Until what time is New Chitose Airport open?
A: The airport is open 24 hours, but the shops and restaurants close around 9:00 PM.
Q: Are there places to stay at New Chitose Airport early in the morning or late at night?
A: “New Chitose Airport Onsen” and “Air Terminal Hotel” are recommended.
Q: Are flights delayed due to snow at New Chitose Airport?
A: Yes, delays or cancellations are more likely during the winter months (December to February), so please check the latest flight information.
Enjoy New Chitose Airport to the fullest at the start and end of your Hokkaido trip!
