New Chitose Airport

New Chitose Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the snowy fairytale of Hokkaido, often referred to as a "resort airport." The complex is famous for offering travellers unique entertainment directly inside the terminal: from authentic hot springs to theme parks and a cinema. Many tourists specifically arrive here several hours before their flight to enjoy the gastronomic variety of the famous "Ramen Dojo" and purchase the freshest local delicacies. This is a place where your introduction to the culture of northern Japan begins from the very first minutes after landing.

Unique Features and Advantages

Relaxation Before Flight. One of the main highlights of the airport is its own onsen (hot spring), New Chitose Airport Onsen, located on the fourth floor. Travellers can relax in baths with thermal water, visit the sauna, or rest in special rooms while watching aeroplanes. This is the only airport in Japan with such a level of spa services.

Gastronomic Haven. The Hokkaido Ramen Dojo zone is a must-visit location gathering 10 of the region's best restaurants offering the famous Hokkaido ramen. Here you can try the legendary miso ramen with corn and butter without even going into the city.

Entertainment for the Whole Family. The terminal houses Royce' Chocolate World — a chocolate museum and factory where you can watch the sweets-making process through glass. For children, the Doraemon Wakuwaku Sky Park theme park and Hello Kitty zone are open, making the wait for a flight an exciting adventure.

Below is the current contact information for New Chitose Airport (CTS), serving the city of Sapporo. These details will help you plan your trip and resolve any questions that may arise.

• Official Website: www.new-chitose-airport.jp. Detailed information about flights, services, and terminal maps is available on the site, including in English.
• Information Service Phone: +81 123 23 0111. This is the main contact number for obtaining information about airport operations.
• Address: Bibi, Chitose, Hokkaido 066-0012, Japan.
• Email: The airport does not use a public email for general enquiries. It is recommended to use the special feedback form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official accounts:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/newchitoseairport
  • Instagram: @newchitose_airport
  • X (formerly Twitter): @Chitose_AP
• Lost & Found: If you have lost an item within the terminal building, please call the general information service at +81 123 23 0111 for assistance. In case of items lost on board an aircraft or checked baggage, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Main support is provided by staff at information counters located in the terminals. You can also use the general information service phone for consultation.

Getting to New Chitose Airport, the main air hub of Hokkaido Island, from the centre of Sapporo is straightforward. The transport system of Japan offers several convenient and efficient methods suitable for any budget and travel style.

Train. The fastest and most popular method is the JR Rapid Airport express train. It departs from JR Sapporo Station every 15-20 minutes and will get you to the airport in just 37-40 minutes. The railway station is located directly on the basement floor of the terminal, making this option maximally convenient. The cost of the trip is approximately 1,150 yen. This is the ideal choice for those who value time and predictability.

Bus. Another excellent option is the limousine buses (Airport Limousine Bus). They operate between the airport and key districts, metro stations, and hotels in Sapporo. The trip takes more time, approximately 70-90 minutes depending on the route and traffic conditions, but may be more convenient if you are travelling with heavy luggage. The ticket price is usually slightly lower than the train, approximately 1,100-1,300 yen.

Taxi and Transfer. A taxi is the most comfortable but also the most expensive method. A trip from central Sapporo to the airport will cost approximately 15,000 – 20,000 yen and take about an hour, excluding traffic jams. This may be a justified option for a small group or family. It is recommended to consider a pre-booked transfer, which sometimes allows for slight savings and avoids communication difficulties.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively travel around Hokkaido, renting a car will be a wonderful solution. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at the airport. The drive from central Sapporo via the expressway will take about 60 minutes (don't forget to account for the toll fees). The airport has both short-term and long-term parking, so leaving the car will not be a problem.

Thus, the choice of transport depends on your priorities: the JR train for speed, the bus for convenience with luggage, and a taxi or rented car for maximum comfort and freedom of movement. If your plans include travelling to other parts of the island, it may be worth considering flights to Asahikawa Airport or Hakodate Airport to optimise your route.

New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Sapporo consists of two main passenger terminals: Domestic and International. Both buildings are connected by a convenient walkway, forming a single complex, which makes navigation between them simple and quick — you will not need shuttles or buses.

The Domestic Terminal is significantly larger in size and serves flights throughout Japan. It is a multi-level building with a structure classic for Japanese airports: the arrival zone is located on the first floor, the departure zone and check-in counters on the second, while the third and fourth floors are dedicated to numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment zones. This is where the main part of the airport's infrastructure is concentrated.

The International Terminal is more compact and serves flights from abroad. Its structure is similar, but everything is arranged more simply and with fewer commercial outlets. Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated, allowing passengers to pass through all formalities quickly. Despite its smaller size, the terminal is highly functional and does not lag behind its "older brother" in efficiency.

The main feature of the airport is the connecting corridor between the terminals. This is not just a passageway, but a true centre of entertainment and shopping. Located here are the famous Royce' Chocolate World museum and shop, the Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park for children, a flight simulator zone, as well as a spa complex with a thermal spring (onsen) right in the airport building. Even if you have a lot of time before departure, you certainly won't be bored.

Check-in and security screening at New Chitose usually proceed very quickly thanks to the high efficiency of the staff. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2-3 hours. Navigation through the airport is intuitive, and all signs are duplicated in English. For maximum convenience, follow the signs to your terminal (Domestic or International), and if you wish to get from one to the other, look for signs leading to the connecting walkway on the third-floor level.

The history of New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the history of the rapid development of Hokkaido as one of the key regions of Japan. Although the first airfield in this area appeared back in 1926 and served as a military base for a long time, the modern airport complex we know today began its new chapter much later. The need for a larger and more modern airport became obvious with the growing popularity of Sapporo, especially after hosting the Winter Olympic Games in 1972.

A key moment in the airport's history was the opening of the new passenger terminal in 1992. It was a modern semi-circular building designed to handle huge domestic passenger traffic. This event marked the birth of New Chitose as one of the country's most advanced airports. An important stage was the opening of a separate international terminal in 2010, which significantly expanded the geography of flights and strengthened the airport's status on the world stage.

New Chitose Airport boasts several achievements. For many years, the route Tokyo (Haneda) — Sapporo (New Chitose) has consistently ranked among the busiest air routes in the world by the number of passengers carried. This testifies to its colossal importance for domestic transport in the country. Furthermore, New Chitose became the first airport in Japan to receive permission for 24-hour operation, which was a breakthrough for the country's aviation industry.

An interesting fact: New Chitose Airport is unique in that it shares its runways with the Chitose Air Base of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Passengers looking out the window can sometimes see military aircraft alongside civilian liners. Over the past decades, the airport has gone through several stages of modernisation, transforming from a simple transport hub into a true entertainment complex with a cinema, hot springs (onsen), theme parks, and numerous shops, making the wait for a flight here truly engaging.

New Chitose Airport (CTS) offers passengers an impressive array of services, turning the wait for a flight into a comfortable and engaging pastime. It is not just a transport hub, but a true multifunctional complex where everyone will find something to their liking.

For gourmets and shopping lovers, this is a real paradise. The airport houses numerous restaurants and cafes where you can try famous Hokkaido dishes, such as fresh seafood, miso ramen, and desserts made from local milk. Numerous shops, including Duty Free, offer a wide assortment of goods — from souvenirs and local delicacies to branded clothing and electronics.

For comfortable rest, premium waiting halls and VIP lounges are provided. But the main highlight of the airport is its own onsen (hot spring) with a sauna and spa centre, where you can completely relax before your flight. Additionally, the Air Terminal Hotel is located right inside the terminal building, which is very convenient for transit passengers or those with an early departure.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas. For financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are at passengers' service. In case of necessity, a 24-hour medical centre is available.

Travellers with children will appreciate the special play zones, including the famous Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park, as well as mother and child rooms. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, and wheelchairs and special assistance are provided. For those who need to work, the airport offers business centre services and conference rooms.

New Chitose Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true gastronomic centre where you can enjoy the best flavours of Hokkaido before departure or immediately after arrival. The choice of establishments here is huge and capable of satisfying both a hurried traveller and a gourmet wishing to have a full meal.

The main concentration of restaurants and cafes is found in the Domestic Terminal, especially on the 3rd floor in the zone called "Gourmet World". Most establishments are located in the public area (before security control), allowing well-wishers to also enjoy the local cuisine. In the International Terminal, the selection is more modest, but everything necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight is also available.

What is definitely worth trying:

• Ramen: The airport has an entire "street" of ramen — Hokkaido Ramen Dojo, gathering branches of ten famous ramen shops from all over Hokkaido. Here you can try different types of this dish: miso ramen from Sapporo, soy ramen from Asahikawa, or seafood ramen from Hakodate.
• Soup Curry: Another cult dish of Hokkaido. This is an aromatic, not too thick curry with large pieces of vegetables and meat. An excellent option for a hearty lunch.
• Fresh Seafood: Sushi bars and restaurants offer the freshest scallops, crabs, sea urchins, and salmon roe for which the region is famous.
• Dairy Products: Do not miss the chance to try the famous Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream or buy local cheeses and desserts, such as cheese tarts, as souvenirs.

For a quick snack, numerous bakeries with fresh pastries or "konbini" format shops where you can buy onigiri, sandwiches, and ready-made bento meals are perfect. If you have time for a full lunch or dinner, head to one of the restaurants specialising in yakiniku (Japanese barbecue), soup curry, or donburi (rice with various toppings).

Regarding special dietary needs, many restaurants offer meat-free dishes, for example, with vegetables or tofu. However, please note that finding certified Halal or strictly vegan and gluten-free options can be difficult. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff in advance. The price range varies from affordable eateries where you can have a snack for 500-1,000 yen, to mid-range restaurants where a full lunch will cost 2,000-4,000 yen. Most establishments operate from morning until late evening (approximately from 8:00 to 21:00), but hours may change depending on the flight schedule.

Planning a departure from New Chitose Airport, serving the city of Sapporo, will go smoothly if you consider a few tips. The airport is modern and well-organised, but knowing some nuances will help save time and nerves.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Japan, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. During peak seasons, especially in winter during the skiing boom, queues for check-in and security may be longer, so it is better to allow extra time. To speed up the process, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security services work efficiently. Standard rules for carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) apply here as well. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage. Customs control in Japan is strict, especially regarding the import of food products (meat, fruit, vegetables). Always declare any doubtful items to avoid fines.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you are flying from Sapporo in clear weather, window seats will gift you stunning views of Hokkaido's mountain landscapes. For greater comfort and the ability to leave the cabin faster, choose aisle seats. Passengers with a transfer should note that terminals for domestic and international flights are separated but connected by a convenient walkway. Signs are intuitive, but if you have a short connection between an international and domestic flight, you need to move without delay.

How to Save. The fastest and often most cost-effective way to get to or from the airport is the JR Rapid Airport express train. It will take you to Sapporo Central Station in about 40 minutes. The airport itself has many Duty-Free shops where you can advantageously purchase Japanese cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs. Remember that prices for food and drinks in cafes after the security zone may be higher.

In Case of Flight Delay. New Chitose Airport is one of the best places to get "stuck." At your service are numerous restaurants with Hokkaido cuisine, shops, a cinema, and even a real onsen (hot spring) with a view of the runway. For families with children, the Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park entertainment zone and the Royce' Chocolate World factory-museum are open. You certainly won't be bored here.