Okadama Airport

If New Chitose is the main international gateway to Hokkaido, then Okadama Airport is its cosy "secret" alternative, known mostly to locals. This small urban airport is located just a few kilometres from the centre of Sapporo, making it incredibly convenient for quick trips around the region. There are no endless queues or huge terminals here; the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a friendly railway station where everything is simple and clear. Okadama is the ideal choice for those planning to explore remote corners of the island, such as Rishiri or Kushiro, without wasting extra time on the road.

Unique Location. The main advantage of Okadama is its proximity to the city centre. You can get here by subway (Sakaemachi station is a 5-minute bus ride or a 15-20 minute walk away) or by taxi in just 20 minutes from Odori Park.

Panoramic Terrace. A free observation deck is equipped on the roof of the terminal. It offers a picturesque view not only of the runway and propeller aircraft but also of the Sapporo cityscape against the backdrop of the mountains.

Local Gastronomy. The Okadama area is famous for its onions, and this is reflected in the menu of the airport restaurant "Okadama Kitchen". Be sure to try the Okadama onion curry or the signature ramen here — it is a great way to experience local cuisine without even leaving the terminal.

Compactness and Speed. Thanks to its small size, check-in and security procedures are lightning-fast. This saves travellers from the stress typical of large hubs and allows them to enjoy a calm start to their journey.

Below you will find contact information for Okadama Airport (OKD), which serves domestic flights to Sapporo. This information will help you contact airport representatives to resolve various issues.

• Official Website: www.okadama-airport.co.jp (the site is available primarily in Japanese).
• Information Desk Phone: +81 11-781-6411. Please note that operators may speak predominantly Japanese.
• Address: Okadamacho, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0880, Japan.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address. For communication, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website or call by phone.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official accounts on popular international social networks. All current information is published on the website.
• Lost and Found Information: If items were lost within the airport terminal, please contact the administration via the main phone number. If you lost something on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and assistance within the airport, please contact the information desk by phone.

Okadama Airport (OKD) is conveniently located within the city limits of Sapporo, just 6 km north of the centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. It serves primarily domestic flights, acting as an excellent starting point for flights around Hokkaido. There are several ways to get to the airport, and the choice depends on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Direct shuttle buses run from several key points in the city, including JR Sapporo Station and the bus terminal near Odori Park. The bus journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. Another popular route is a combination of subway and bus or a walk. You can take the Toho subway line to Sakaemachi station, which is about a 15-minute walk from the terminal. Local buses also run from the station, taking you to the airport in a couple of minutes. This is a reliable way to avoid traffic jams during rush hour.

Taxi or Transfer offers maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with large luggage or family. A taxi ride from the centre of Sapporo to Okadama Airport will take about 20-25 minutes and will cost on average 2,500-3,500 yen. You can also book a private transfer in advance so that the driver meets you at a specified location. This is a convenient, albeit more expensive, way to get to the terminal without any hassle.

If you plan to explore the island of Hokkaido by car, then car rental is your choice. Offices of several rental companies operate at the airport and its vicinity. The road to the airport from the centre is simple and straightforward. For those arriving in their own or rented car, paid parking with hourly and daily rates is provided on the territory of Okadama Airport. This is convenient for short trips or for those seeing off or meeting passengers.

In general, for budget travellers and those travelling light, buses or the subway are ideal. For maximum convenience, choose a taxi. It is important not to confuse Okadama Airport with the region's main international hub — New Chitose Airport (CTS), which is located much further from the city and serves the majority of international and long-haul flights across Japan.

Okadama Airport (OKD) is a compact and convenient airport primarily serving domestic flights around the island of Hokkaido. Its structure is extremely simple, making navigation intuitive even for those here for the first time.

The airport has just one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. The terminal building is two storeys high, and all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Thanks to the small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here, and transitions between zones take mere minutes. There is no need to move between different terminals, as all operations are concentrated under one roof.

Located on the ground floor are the airline check-in counters and the arrival area with a baggage claim belt. Here you will also find several cafes and souvenir shops where you can purchase local delicacies. The departure zone is located on the first floor. After passing security control, passengers enter a small but cosy waiting hall with boarding gates. Due to the airport's compactness, passing through check-in and screening usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs. All signage is duplicated in English. Due to the simplicity of the layout, you will easily find the check-in counters, the boarding gate, and the baggage claim area. Okadama Airport leaves a pleasant impression precisely because of its intimate atmosphere and lack of the hustle and bustle typical of large aviation hubs.

The history of Okadama Airport (OKD) begins in 1942, when it was founded as an airfield for the needs of the Imperial Japanese Army. After the end of World War II, the facility came under the control of the US military forces. An important turning point in its history was 1956, when the airfield was returned to the control of Japan, which paved the way for its further development as a civil aviation hub.

The first regular passenger flights from Okadama started in 1961, marking the beginning of its civil aviation activity. The airport played a special role during the 1972 Winter Olympic Games held in Sapporo. It received numerous flights, serving athletes, officials, and guests of this significant international event, which contributed to the growth of its fame and importance.

Over the years, the airport's infrastructure has been constantly improved to meet growing needs. In 1964, the runway was extended to 1,000 metres, and in 1994 to 1,500 metres. A key stage of modernisation was the opening of a new, more modern passenger terminal in 1995, which significantly increased passenger comfort and flight service efficiency.

Interesting fact: unlike the larger international airport New Chitose (CTS), which serves long-haul and international flights, Okadama has historically specialised in regional and commuter transport within the island of Hokkaido. Today, it remains an important transport hub for short flights, connecting Sapporo with other cities and remote areas of the region, and continues to play a key role in the transport system of northern Japan.

Okadama Airport (OKD), despite its compact size, provides passengers with all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and quick access to all necessary services before departure or upon arrival in Sapporo.

On the first floor of the terminal is the Okadama Kitchen restaurant, which offers an excellent view of the runway. Here you can try local cuisine while waiting for your flight. Nearby is the Sky Shop Okadama, featuring a wide range of souvenirs and famous Hokkaido delicacies that make excellent gifts.

Free Wi-Fi is available to all passengers throughout the airport, and charging zones for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls. Although there are no separate VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting areas are quite comfortable. An ATM is installed for financial transactions; however, currency exchange services are limited, so it is recommended to take care of this in the city centre in advance.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs. Accessible toilets and lifts are available. For travellers with small children, a nursing room is provided on the first floor, equipped with everything necessary for baby care. In case of need, there is a medical station in the terminal for first aid.

Since Okadama Airport is located within the city limits, there are no hotels directly on its premises. However, thanks to convenient transport links, you can easily and quickly reach numerous hotels in the centre of Sapporo. For business travellers, multi-purpose rooms are available for rent to hold meetings or small events, but a full-fledged business centre is absent.

Okadama Airport (OKD), despite its compact size compared to New Chitose, offers several good dining options that allow for both a quick snack and a full lunch before departure. All establishments are located in the public area (before the security checkpoint), which is convenient for all airport visitors.

The main place where you can enjoy a meal is the "Okadama" restaurant, located on the first floor of the terminal. Its main advantage is the panoramic windows overlooking the runway. Here you can have a leisurely lunch while watching the planes. The menu includes Japanese and European cuisine. Particular attention should be paid to local specialities of Sapporo and Hokkaido, such as soup curry or dishes using fresh local vegetables and meat. This is an ideal choice for a full meal.

For those short on time, the SKY SHOP OKADAMA is suitable. In addition to souvenirs, you can buy light snacks, sandwiches, drinks, and famous Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream here. This is a great option for a quick bite. You can also get coffee or tea to go.

As for prices, they are in the average range typical for Japanese airports. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule and cover the period from morning until the departure of the last evening flight. It is recommended to check the exact opening hours on the official airport website, as they may change.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free diets) may find it difficult to find ready-made labelled meals. In Japan, this is not yet as widespread, especially in small airports. The best solution would be to speak directly to the staff at the restaurant and clarify the ingredients of the dishes — perhaps they can prepare something individually for you, for example, a salad or a dish of rice and vegetables.

To ensure your journey through Okadama Airport goes smoothly, use these tips. The airport serves mainly domestic flights within Japan, so it is quite compact and convenient for navigation.

Arrival time at the airport. We recommend arriving at the airport approximately 1 hour before departure. Since the terminal serves domestic flights and is notable for its compactness, this time will be sufficient to pass check-in and security screening without rushing.

Check-in and security control. To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such a service. At the airport, keep your ID and boarding pass ready. Screening procedures at Japanese airports are very organised and polite; simply follow the staff's instructions.

Choosing a seat on the plane. When flying from Sapporo, a city surrounded by beautiful nature, a window seat will give you breathtaking views of the island of Hokkaido during takeoff and landing. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

Hand luggage. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check the hand luggage allowance on your airline's website. Standard restrictions apply to the transport of liquids (in containers of no more than 100 ml), as well as a ban on sharp and flammable items. Pack all liquids in one transparent bag to speed up screening.

Passengers with transfers. Thanks to the small size of Okadama Airport, transfers between domestic flights here are quick and easy. Carefully watch the information on the display boards to find your next boarding gate. Difficulties with navigation usually do not arise.

Customs control. Since Okadama Airport specialises in domestic flights, passengers travelling within the country do not need to undergo customs control. This procedure is relevant only for international flights.

Saving time and money. Use online check-in to avoid standing in queues. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after the security zone. Getting to and from the airport is often cheaper by public transport than by taxi.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative to clarify the status and further actions. Information can also be tracked on electronic boards in the departure hall. There are cafes and small shops in the airport where you can spend time while waiting.