By Fadil, Independent local guide in Sapporo
Published · Updated
How to Get from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo: A Simple Guide
Hey there! Landing at New Chitose Airport? You’re so close to Sapporo, and getting there is pretty straightforward. Whether you’re aiming for Odori Park, Susukino’s lively nightlife, or just need to reach Sapporo Station, I’ve got you covered with this easy guide. And if you’d rather skip the planning, there’s something called the Sapporo Landing Pack (think airport pickup, a city tour, and more) to make your arrival a breeze.
What to Expect at New Chitose Airport
Before we dive into how to get to Sapporo, let’s talk about the airport for a sec. New Chitose Airport (Shin-Chitose, or just CTS) is Hokkaido’s main hub, and it’s super easy to navigate.
- Finding Your Way: There’s a domestic terminal and an international one, but they’re connected. Plus, there are English signs everywhere, so you won’t feel lost.
- Stuff to Check Out: Got a little time? There are shops, tasty food spots, and even an onsen (hot spring) if you’re up for a soak.
- Parking: Driving? There’s parking available, though most folks stick to public transport or rent a car.
Your Options for Getting to Sapporo
You’ve got a few ways to make the trip, and they’re all pretty doable. Here’s the rundown:
1. The Train to Sapporo
- What It’s Like: The train’s quick and a lot of people love it: about 37 minutes to Sapporo Station. Got a Japan Rail Pass? You can use it here, which is handy.
- Cost: Around ¥1,150 one-way (double-check, since prices can shift).
- How to Find It: Head downstairs to the JR station in the domestic terminal. Trains run every 15-30 minutes.
- Best For: Anyone heading to Sapporo Station or planning to use the subway.
2. The Bus to Sapporo
- What It’s Like: Buses take a little longer (70-80 minutes), but they drop you right at places like Odori or Susukino, often near big hotels.
- Cost: Usually ¥1,100-¥1,300 one-way.
- How to Find It: Look for bus stops outside either terminal. Signs will point you to Sapporo-bound ones.
- Best For: People staying near Odori or Susukino who want a drop-off close to their spot.
3. A Taxi to Sapporo
- What It’s Like: Taxis are comfy and direct, but they’ll cost you: think ¥13,000-¥17,000 (around $130-$160 USD) to central Sapporo.
- How to Find It: Taxi stands are right outside the terminals.
- Best For: Small groups or anyone who wants a no-fuss ride.
4. Renting a Car
- What It’s Like: Renting a car gives you freedom, especially if you’re exploring beyond Sapporo. You’ll find counters like Toyota Rent-a-Car or Avis at the airport.
- Cost: Starts around ¥6,000 per day, depending on what you pick.
- How to Find It: Check the domestic terminal for rental desks, then grab your car nearby.
- Best For: Travelers who want to drive around Hokkaido.
How to Reach Odori, Susukino, and Sapporo Station
Here’s a quick guide to getting to these key spots:
To Odori from New Chitose Airport
- By Bus: A direct bus to Odori Park takes about 73 minutes, which is great if you’re catching the Snow Festival or just chilling there.
- By Train: Take the train to Sapporo Station, then jump on the Namboku Subway Line to Odori Station. It’s a 5-minute ride.
To Susukino from New Chitose Airport
- By Bus: Direct buses to Susukino take 70-80 minutes and land you in the heart of the nightlife scene.
- By Train: Train to Sapporo Station, then the Namboku Subway Line to Susukino Station, about 7 minutes.
To Sapporo Station from New Chitose Airport
- By Train: The train’s your fastest pick: just 37 minutes straight to Sapporo Station.
- By Bus: Buses work too, but they take 60-70 minutes and aren’t as frequent.
Make It Easy with the Sapporo Landing Pack
Feeling a little overwhelmed? No worries. The Sapporo Landing Pack is here to smooth things out. It’s a handy package that takes care of your arrival. Here’s what’s included:
- Airport Pickup by Train: We’ll meet you at New Chitose Airport and get you on the train to Sapporo Station, no fussing with tickets or maps.
- Pre-Charged IC Card: You’ll get a card (like Kitaca or Suica) with credit, ready for trains, buses, or even grabbing a snack.
- Guided City Tour: Once you’re in Sapporo, we’ll show you around places like Odori Park and Susukino, tailored to what you’re into.
It’s like having a friend waiting for you when you land, ready to help you kick off your trip. Want in? You can book the Sapporo Landing Pack here.
Quick Tips for Your Trip
- Check Schedules: Train and bus times can shift, especially in winter. Peek at the JR Hokkaido website or the airport’s bus page for the latest.
- Winter Heads-Up: Visiting in the cold months? Bundle up and add a bit of extra travel time. Snow can slow things down.
- Search Tip: Looking online? Try “CTS to Sapporo” to find flights or info faster.
Ready for Sapporo?
There you go: everything you need to get from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo, whether it’s Odori, Susukino, or Sapporo Station calling your name. And if you want to keep it simple, the Sapporo Landing Pack has your back.
Got more questions? Drop us a line at contact@hokkaigo.com or reach out on WhatsApp! Don’t forget to take a look at our other Hokkaido day trips tours. Can’t wait to help you enjoy Hokkaido!
Frequently asked questions
The JR Rapid Airport train: about 37–40 minutes to Sapporo Station, departing every 12–15 minutes from the station directly under the terminal. It's faster and more reliable than the bus, especially in winter.
Around ¥1,150 one way for a standard seat on the JR Rapid Airport. An optional reserved 'uSeat' costs a few hundred yen extra and guarantees you a seat with luggage space.
The bus is cheaper for some hotel areas and drops you closer to certain hotels (roughly 70–80 minutes to central Sapporo), but it's slower and can be delayed by snow. With luggage and a hotel near Sapporo Station, take the train.
Only if you value door-to-door convenience over cost. The ride takes about an hour and costs far more than the train (typically ¥10,000+, more with expressway tolls). For groups with lots of luggage, a fixed-price airport transfer can make sense.
