Chitose

Chitose is a charming city located on the picturesque island of Hokkaido, known for its stunning nature and proximity to one of the country's clearest lakes. It attracts travelers with the opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquility of northern landscapes.

The city is located in Hokkaido Prefecture, the northernmost of Japan's main islands, and has about 98,000 residents. Chitose also plays an important role as a transport hub, as it is home to New Chitose Airport—Hokkaido's main air gateway, handling numerous international and domestic flights. The climate here is moderate, with warm summers and snowy, fairly cold winters, which creates conditions for a variety of activities at any time of year.

One of the main gems of Chitose is Lake Shikotsu—an incredibly beautiful caldera lake, the second deepest in Japan, famous for its crystal-clear water. Here you can enjoy boat trips, kayaking, or simply admire the breathtaking views. The city also serves as a starting point for exploring Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which offers numerous hiking trails through volcanic landscapes and the chance to relax in hot springs (onsens). In winter, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is particularly popular, when the lake and its surroundings transform into a fairytale land decorated with illuminated ice figures.

Chitose is a wonderful destination for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique cultural experiences. If you are planning a trip to Hokkaido, be sure to consider visiting this hospitable city!

You can find more interesting facts on the history of the city of Chitose page.

The climate in Chitose features distinct seasons, making it attractive for visiting at different times of the year. Expect moderately warm summers with occasional rain and cold, snowy winters. Summer, especially in July and August, brings comfortable warm weather: the average air temperature in August reaches +21.6°C (maximum up to +24.3°C); this month is also the wettest, with rainfall around 6 mm and approximately 16 rainy days.

Winters in Chitose are cold and snowy. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of about -5.1°C (minimums can drop to -8.4°C), while the amount of precipitation in the winter months, such as January and February, is low, around 2 mm. Spring and autumn in Chitose are transitional periods with gradual temperature changes and moderate precipitation. For example, in May the average temperature is a pleasant +12.0°C, and in October it is about +11.9°C. To plan your trip in the best possible way, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with more detailed information: Chitose climate.

In addition to its famous natural beauty and role as the air gateway to Hokkaido, the city of Chitose hides many fascinating secrets and unexpected features. Here are just a few little-known facts that will help you look at this city in a new way:

• Airport-Resort: New Chitose Airport (CTS), Hokkaido's main aviation hub, is much more than just a transit point. On its grounds, you will find a real onsen (Japanese hot spring) for relaxation between flights, a cinema, and even the entire Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park Cafe dedicated to the iconic anime character. This makes waiting for a flight or meeting guests a real adventure!

• The City's Salmon Soul: Chitose has a deep historical connection with salmon, and this link is carefully preserved. Not only is there the educational Chitose Salmon Aquarium, where you can trace the entire life cycle of this amazing fish, but you can also see the unique Indian Water Wheel in action—a traditional structure for catching fish that today serves as an interesting tourist attraction.

• A Name with a Thousand-Year History: The city's name "Chitose" (千歳) is very symbolic and translates from Japanese as "thousand years." In Japanese culture, this is not just a beautiful word, but a wish for longevity and prosperity, often associated with the image of a crane—a symbol of happiness and long life. Although the city itself is not a famous habitat for cranes, its name carries deep cultural meaning.

• Horse Country: For lovers of horses and outdoor activities, Chitose offers a visit to the Northern Horse Park. This is a vast space where you can not only enjoy horseback riding but also watch exciting horse shows and learn more about the history of horse breeding in Hokkaido. The park offers entertainment for the whole family and is a wonderful place for a day in nature.

The city of Chitose is a key transport hub for Hokkaido, so getting here is quite easy. Thanks to the presence of the island's main air port and a developed railway network, travelers can easily plan their route. You can find all the details and choose the best option by following the link: more on how to get to Chitose.

The absolute leader in terms of location convenience is New Chitose Airport (CTS). This is an international airport receiving flights from all over the world. Although this hub serves as the main air gateway for the prefecture's capital, Sapporo, it is actually located directly within Chitose, just 6.1 km from the center. You can find more information on the New Chitose Airport page. This makes the trip to the hotel as fast as possible: by taxi or bus, the journey takes about 10–15 minutes. The airport handles a huge passenger flow and offers excellent infrastructure.

As an alternative, you can consider flying to other cities, although they are located much further away. For example, Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is located at a distance of about 114 km from Chitose. The journey from there by car will take over 2 hours. Also available is Hakodate Airport (HKD), located approximately 135 km away. These options may be suitable if you are planning a large road trip across Hokkaido island.

For clarity, here is summary information on the region's main airports:

Regarding rail connections, Chitose is perfectly integrated into the Japan Railways (JR) network. The city's main station, JR Chitose, is located on the line connecting the airport with Sapporo and other cities on the island. "Rapid Airport" trains run frequently and quickly, being one of the most popular ways for tourists to get around. If you are arriving by train from other regions of the country, you will likely need to transfer, but the comfort and punctuality of Japanese trains will make the journey pleasant.

In Chitose, you will find many interesting spots that can surprise and delight travelers. The city offers unique natural sites and historical shrines, as well as places for quiet relaxation that reflect the harmony of Japanese culture with nature.

One of the city's spiritual centers is the Chitose Shrine. This Shinto shrine, nestled in greenery, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of tranquility and traditional Japanese religion. It is dedicated to the patron deities of the area and is a popular place to pray for well-being and good luck. Tourists are attracted by its beautiful architecture, well-kept grounds, and the opportunity to touch the spiritual culture of Japan.

For those seeking peace and natural beauty, Sensai no Yu En is worth a visit. This is a picturesque garden that is especially beautiful during the blooming periods of various plants. The name "Sensai no Yu En" can be translated as "Garden of a Thousand Flowers," and it truly lives up to its name, offering magnificent landscapes and quiet corners for meditation and relaxation. It is a great place to enjoy the change of seasons and take beautiful photos.

An interesting and educational site is the Indian Water Wheel. Located on the Chitose River, this structure represents a traditional method of salmon fishing that has been historically used in this region. Today, it functions as a tourist attraction demonstrating an important part of the local culture and history related to fishing. Visitors can learn about the salmon life cycle and its significance to Hokkaido, as well as see the wheel in action during certain seasons.

If you are looking for a place for leisurely walks and outdoor recreation within the city, Aoba Park in Chitose is an excellent choice. This well-maintained city park offers shaded alleys, sports grounds, and picnic areas. The park is especially popular in spring during the cherry blossom season, when its alleys are covered in a delicate pink carpet, and in autumn, when the tree leaves turn vibrant crimson and gold. It is an ideal place for family holidays or just to enjoy the silence and beauty of nature.

The gastronomic scene in Chitose, as in all of Hokkaido, will delight you with the freshness and quality of local products. The island is famous for its seafood, first-class dairy products, and unique regional dishes. Here you can enjoy flavors that reflect the rich nature and culinary traditions of northern Japan.

Be sure to try dishes made from the freshest salmon, as Chitose is closely connected with this fish. Also, don't miss the chance to taste the famous Hokkaido ramen, especially its variations with rich miso broth or salty shio broth. Another iconic dish of the region is "Genghis Khan" (Jingisukan), which is grilled mutton or lamb with vegetables, often cooked right at the table on a special grill pan. And, of course, you cannot overlook soup curry—a dish unique to Hokkaido that combines fragrant curry soup with rice and various toppings, from vegetables to meat. If you want to try an authentic version, stop by Soup Curry Ramai.

Among the drinks, the local beer is worth noting—Hokkaido is the birthplace of the famous Sapporo beer, and in Chitose, you will find many of its varieties as well as products from local breweries. For those who prefer something stronger, sake and shochu are available. A good place for beer tasting is the Beer Restaurant Haube. Among non-alcoholic drinks, fresh Hokkaido milk, considered one of the best in Japan, various fruit juices, and, of course, traditional Japanese green tea are popular.

The food culture in Chitose is diverse. Locals and tourists can find establishments for every taste and budget—from cozy ramen-ya (noodle shops) and izakayas (Japanese pubs serving food and drinks) to specialized restaurants offering seafood or "Genghis Khan." Don't forget the food courts and restaurants at New Chitose Airport, which is famous for its gastronomic variety, including the renowned "Ramen Dojo," where the best ramen restaurants from across Hokkaido are gathered.

Thus, the gastronomic calling card of Chitose is, above all, fresh seafood, especially salmon, fragrant Hokkaido ramen, and hearty soup curry. The overall character of the local cuisine can be described as a combination of simplicity, natural flavors, and the use of high-quality local ingredients, making every dish truly memorable.

Welcome to Chitose! To make your trip to this charming city on Hokkaido as comfortable and full of pleasant experiences as possible, we have prepared some practical tips for you. They will help you better navigate and avoid possible inconveniences.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate in Chitose is characterized by a clear change of seasons. In summer (June-August), choose light clothing, but have a sweater or light jacket with you for cool evenings. Winter (December-February) here is snowy and cold, so warm layered clothing, a hat, gloves, a scarf, and waterproof shoes are essential. Comfortable shoes are your main companion at any time of year, especially for walks to natural attractions. Don't forget a universal adapter (in Japan, type A and B sockets are used, voltage 100V). When visiting temples and shrines, such as the Chitose Shrine, prefer modest clothing.

2. Transport around the city and surroundings: In Chitose itself, it is convenient to move around by local buses. For trips to neighboring Sapporo and other cities in Hokkaido, use JR trains. New Chitose Airport (CTS), located very close by, is a major transport hub. Taxis are available but can be expensive; check for taxi apps like JapanTaxi. Car rental is a good option if you plan to explore national parks like Shikotsu-Toya. Remember that Japan has left-hand traffic and an international driving permit is required for rentals.

3. Financial Matters: The official currency is the Japanese yen (JPY). You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or specialized exchange offices. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, large stores, and many restaurants. However, it is recommended to always have some cash with you for small establishments, markets, or paying for fares on local transport. ATMs accepting international cards are most often found in post offices (Japan Post Bank) and convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven). Tipping in Japan is not expected, as quality service is already included in the price.

4. Health and Safety: Chitose, like Japan in general, is considered a very safe place. Pharmacies (look for the sign "薬" - kusuri) are in the city, but not all are open 24/7, and staff do not always speak English. It is recommended to have a basic set of medicines with you. If you need medical help, contact your hotel reception or call 119 (ambulance/fire service). Having travel insurance is mandatory. Observe standard precautions: keep an eye on your belongings and be careful in crowded places.

5. Language and Communication: The official language is Japanese. English is common in tourist spots, hotels, and the airport, but in general, the level of proficiency among the local population can be low. Learn a few basic phrases in Japanese: "Konnichiwa" (hello), "Arigato" (thank you), "Sumimasen" (excuse me/sorry). For convenience, purchase a local SIM card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi at the airport. Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, and some public areas. Translator apps and navigation maps, like Google Maps, can be very useful.

6. Local Etiquette and Traditions: Japanese people value politeness and respect highly. A greeting is usually accompanied by a bow; for foreigners, a slight nod is sufficient. In public places, especially on transport, try to speak quietly and not disturb those around you. It is not common to eat and drink on the go (except at festivals or designated areas). Show patience when standing in lines. Before entering a Japanese house, some temples, and traditional restaurants, you must remove your shoes.

7. Things to Avoid: Try not to stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this is associated with funeral rituals. Avoid pointing at people or objects with one finger—it's better to use an open palm. Loud phone conversations in public places, especially on transport, are considered bad manners.

8. Extra Tip: Given Chitose's proximity to New Chitose Airport (CTS), which is not just a transport hub but an entire entertainment complex, don't miss the chance to explore it. There you will find an onsen (hot spring), a cinema, shops, and even a Doraemon-themed park. It is a great place to spend time before a flight or just to get acquainted with the unique concept of a Japanese airport.

We hope these tips help you plan an unforgettable trip to Chitose. Enjoy the beauty of Hokkaido's nature, the hospitality of the locals, and the unique atmosphere of this wonderful city!

Evening Chitose offers its guests a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, different from the noisy nightlife of megacities. You won't find huge club districts here, but you can enjoy time in authentic Japanese establishments while experiencing local hospitality. The main concentration of bars and restaurants open late is usually found in the central part of the city, near the Chitose railway station and major hotels.

Nightlife in Chitose is mainly represented by various bars, traditional Japanese drinking establishments called "izakaya" where you can not only drink but also order snacks, and karaoke bars, which are very popular in Japan. Some restaurants also stay open until late evening, offering dinner in a calm environment. The atmosphere in most places is friendly and relaxed, catering to both locals and tourists. The dress code is usually casual, unless it is a very high-status establishment, which is less common for Chitose.

Among the specific places where you can spend an evening, it is worth noting the Beer Restaurant Haube, which offers a good selection of beer and snacks in an inviting setting. If you are looking for something closer to a club format, you can look at the Sakura Lounge Domestic. And for a hearty dinner before night adventures or simply for a quiet evening, Soup Curry Ramai, known for its signature dish, is a great choice.

When planning your evening leisure, keep in mind that many establishments start to come alive closer to 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Prices in the bars and restaurants of Chitose are generally moderate, but it is always better to check the menu in advance. Regarding transport, public transport services may be limited after midnight. In this case, taxis are a reliable option; they can be called by phone, via an app, or found at special stands. Chitose, like most cities in Japan, is a very safe city, so night walks along lit central streets usually do not cause concern, though elementary precautions should always be taken.

During the day, Chitose offers other types of entertainment. You can visit the Northern Horse Park to enjoy interacting with horses and nature, or stop by the fascinating Chitose Salmon Aquarium. For family fun, the Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park Cafe located at New Chitose Airport is perfect. And for quiet walks in the fresh air, Aoba Park in Chitose is always open.

Chitose is not only the gateway to Hokkaido and a land of crystal-clear lakes, but also a city where you can enjoy the harmony of nature in well-kept parks and touch local culture through unique museums and historical sites.

Among the city's green oases, Aoba Park in Chitose particularly stands out. It is a wonderful place for leisurely walks, picnics, and sports. In spring, the park blooms with thousands of cherry blossom petals, and in autumn, it delights the eye with the bright colors of the foliage, becoming a favorite vacation spot for citizens and tourists. Another picturesque place is the Sensai no Yu En garden, whose name can be translated as "Garden of a Thousand Flowers." It fully lives up to its name, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of various plants and a peaceful atmosphere at any time of year.

For more active outdoor recreation and to get acquainted with Hokkaido's equestrian culture, head to the Northern Horse Park. Here you can not only go horseback riding but also watch exciting shows, visit a petting zoo, and simply have a good time with the whole family in the vast green territory. It is a great place to feel the open spaces of Hokkaido and interact with animals.

To immerse yourself in the history and nature of the region, the Chitose Salmon Aquarium will help. This unique institution is where you can learn all about the life cycle of this fish, so important to Hokkaido, see it in its natural habitat through underwater windows looking directly into the Chitose River, and even watch it spawning during the season. It is an educational and fascinating place for visitors of all ages, especially those interested in river and lake ecosystems.

The spiritual heart of the city is the Chitose Shrine. This quiet and peaceful place, surrounded by ancient trees, is where you can get acquainted with traditional Shinto architecture and feel an atmosphere of calm. The shrine is popular among local residents who come here to pray for well-being. The Indian Water Wheel is also of historical interest—a unique structure on the Chitose River that demonstrates the traditional method of catching salmon and highlights the importance of this fish for the region. Visiting these places allows for a deeper understanding of the culture and history of Chitose.

For families with children and fans of Japanese pop culture, an interesting addition to the cultural program will be a visit to the Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park Cafe, located at New Chitose Airport. This is not just a cafe, but an entire themed world dedicated to the famous robot cat Doraemon, with play areas, a library, and a souvenir shop, making it a fun place for entertainment.

For authentic experiences, take a walk along the Chitose River—here you can not only see the Indian Water Wheel, but also simply enjoy the views and, in season, watch the fishermen. Also, pay attention to small local parks and squares not always listed in travel guides—they can be a pleasant discovery for a quiet rest and observing the daily life of the city.

Getting around Chitose and its surroundings is quite convenient thanks to a developed public transport system, in which trains and buses play a key role. Its proximity to New Chitose Airport (CTS) makes the city an important transport hub, providing easy access for both arriving and departing travelers.

The main form of rail transport is the JR Chitose Line, which connects Chitose with New Chitose Airport and the major city of Sapporo. "Rapid Airport" express trains run regularly, providing fast and comfortable connections. Tickets can be purchased at station vending machines or you can use refillable IC cards (e.g., Kitaca, Suica, Pasmo). Trains are an excellent choice for trips to neighboring cities and the airport.

For moving directly within the city of Chitose, local buses are widely used. The route network covers most areas. When boarding a bus (usually through the back or middle door), you need to take a numbered ticket (整理券 - seiriken) if you are paying by cash. Payment is made when exiting through the front door; the amount is displayed on a board depending on your boarding stop. Many buses also accept IC cards, which significantly simplifies the payment process—just tap the card against the reader when entering and exiting.

The fare payment system in Chitose is quite flexible. The most convenient way is using the mentioned IC cards, which can be purchased and topped up at railway stations or in some stores. They work on both trains and most buses. Cash payment is also possible, but it is advisable to have small change on buses, as the driver cannot always give change for large bills. The fare depends on the distance; one-way bus or train trips within the city are usually inexpensive.

Tourists are advised to check the transport schedule in advance, especially if trips are planned early in the morning or late in the evening. Information can be found at stations, bus stops, and on the websites of transport companies (often available in English, especially for rail connections). Public transport operating hours are usually from early morning until around midnight, but can vary depending on the route and day of the week.

As an alternative to public transport, taxis are always available in Chitose. They can be found at stands near the station, the airport, or called by phone. This is a more expensive but comfortable way to get around, especially with luggage or at late hours. For those planning to actively explore Hokkaido's nature outside the city, such as Lake Shikotsu or national parks, renting a car is a great option; rental offices are widely represented at New Chitose Airport. During the warm season, for leisurely walks through the city and parks, you can consider the possibility of renting a bicycle.

In Chitose, travelers will find a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The city offers affordable guest houses and hostels, comfortable mid-range hotels, as well as more luxurious options, especially near natural attractions like Lake Shikotsu. Additionally, apartments and houses are available for short-term rent, which can be convenient for families or longer stays.

When choosing a place to stay, you should pay attention to areas close to JR Chitose Railway Station, from where it is easy to reach Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. Hotels located directly at the airport are also popular, which is convenient for transit passengers or those with an early flight. For lovers of nature and quiet relaxation, hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in the vicinity of Lake Shikotsu are suitable, offering magnificent views and the opportunity to enjoy hot springs (onsens).

Among the accommodation options, you can find resort hotels offering not only lodging but also additional services. An example of such a place is the Gozensui Golf Club, which may interest fans of active recreation and a peaceful atmosphere.

The price range for housing in Chitose varies from budget options to luxury offers. You can book accommodation through popular international online platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, or directly on hotel websites. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist season (for example, summer or during the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival in winter), to ensure the best choice and prices.

For those who want to explore the surrounding area, Chitose serves as an excellent starting point for day trips to several interesting nearby places:

These nearby destinations provide insight into the diverse culture and landscapes of the Hokkaido region. Each of these cities offers its own unique attractions: from the bustling prefectural capital Sapporo with its parks, museums, and famous Snow Festival, to the port city of Otaru with its charming canals and glass workshops, or the industrial center of Tomakomai located on the coast. By planning day trips, you can significantly expand your experience of staying in Japan.

Chitose, being an important transport hub for Hokkaido, offers interesting shopping opportunities, especially for those looking for souvenirs and local delicacies from Japan. Although the city does not compare with major shopping capitals, you can find unique goods here that reflect the spirit of the northern island. The main center of attraction for shoppers is undoubtedly New Chitose Airport, which is a veritable shopping city with a huge selection of stores.

The main shopping spots in the city of Chitose itself are concentrated in the area around the JR Chitose Railway Station and along the central streets. Here you will find small local shops offering everyday goods, as well as specialized stalls. However, for a wider range and brand-name items, most tourists and locals head to the airport shops or to neighboring Sapporo.

Speaking of shopping centers, one cannot fail to mention New Chitose Airport (CTS). This is not just an airport, but a huge complex where hundreds of shops are located. It has everything: from boutiques of famous brands and electronics stores to souvenir shops and gastronomic departments offering Hokkaido delicacies. Many travelers specifically set aside time for shopping at the airport before departure. In the city of Chitose itself, there are no large shopping malls comparable to the airport complex, but you can find small department stores or shopping arcades.

Although Chitose is not famous for large and famous markets like some other Japanese cities, you can find small local markets here where farmers sell fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits from Hokkaido. Local craft or food fairs are sometimes held. If you want to dive deeper into the local atmosphere and find the freshest products, it's worth asking locals about the nearest markets or looking into specialized grocery stores that often offer products from local farms.

From Chitose and Hokkaido in general, it is worth bringing back a variety of gastronomic souvenirs. Sweets based on Hokkaido milk (for example, cookies, candies, ice cream), cheeses, as well as products made from local salmon and other seafood are particularly popular. Pay attention to lavender products (if you visit Hokkaido during its blooming season or buy products from Furano), and wooden crafts, possibly with motifs of the Ainu culture, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. A large selection of souvenirs is presented in the shops of New Chitose Airport, including the famous "Shiroi Koibito" cookies and other regional brands.

Most shops in Chitose are usually open from 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM. Shops at New Chitose Airport often work longer to serve passengers on evening flights. As for payment, in Japan, cash (Japanese yen) is still widely used, especially in small shops and markets. However, in large stores, department stores, and of course at the airport, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express) are accepted everywhere. Contactless payments and payment using IC cards (e.g., Kitaca, Suica, Pasmo) are also popular in places where appropriate terminals are available.

For foreign tourists in Japan, there is a consumer tax refund system (Tax-Free Shopping). Most major shops and department stores in Chitose, and especially at New Chitose Airport, provide this service. Look for the "Tax-Free Shop" sign. Usually, to process a tax refund, you must make a purchase of over 5,000 yen (excluding tax) in one store during one day and present your passport at a special Tax-Free counter. Conditions may vary slightly, so check the details on the spot.