New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Hokkaido's main gateway, about an hour from Sapporo, and the easiest place to begin a private journey.
At a glance
- Location
- Chitose; approx. 45–60 min by road to central Sapporo
- Gateway to
- Sapporo, Noboribetsu, Lake Tōya, Niseko, Furano and more
- Good to know
- Evening arrivals and winter weather can mean delays; plan buffer time
- Our service
- Private airport transfer and charter pickup
About this place
New Chitose Airport is where almost every Hokkaido trip begins and ends. Most guests head straight to Sapporo, but the airport is also the natural starting point for Noboribetsu's hot springs, Lake Tōya, Niseko and the ski resorts of the west, and for Furano and Biei to the north.
Choose a first stop that fits your arrival time rather than trying to cover too much on day one. A direct transfer keeps the start simple; a charter can include a stop when the timing allows.
What to do
Straight to Sapporo
Start with the city; approx. 1 hr by road.
Onsen on arrival: Noboribetsu
Head for the hot springs; approx. 1–1.5 hrs.
West to Lake Tōya, Rusutsu and Niseko
A lakeside or mountain start; approx. 2–2.5 hrs, depending on your destination.
North to Furano and Biei
Continue toward the countryside; approx. 2.5 hrs.
An easy stop at Lake Shikotsu
Close to the airport, an easy first or last stop when your schedule allows.
Getting there
Central Sapporo is approx. 45–60 min by road. Allow approx. 1–1.5 hrs for Noboribetsu, 2–2.5 hrs for the western lake and ski areas, and 2.5 hrs for Furano and Biei. Plan your pickup around the flight arrival and your first destination.
All driving times are approximate and depend on the route, traffic and weather. Allow extra time in winter.
Best season
A year-round gateway. Winter arrivals need more buffer time because snow and road conditions can slow the onward drive.
How we can help
Book a private transfer to Sapporo city hotels at the shared starting rate below, or ask about an airport-start charter, day tour or self-drive rental. Send your flight number and group size with your quote request so pickup can be planned around your arrival time.
Pricing guide
- Private charter: From ¥65,000 / 10 hours
- One-day Hokkaido tour: From ¥55,000 / 8–10 hours (depends on itinerary and date)
- Airport transfer: From ¥25,000 (New Chitose → Sapporo city hotels)
- Self-drive rental: From ¥6,000 / day
All prices include tax.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive to central Sapporo?
Approx. 45–60 min, depending on traffic and weather. Winter conditions can make the drive slower.
Can you take us directly to Niseko or Furano?
Yes, by private transfer or charter, quoted individually. The airport transfer price on this site is for New Chitose → Sapporo city hotels.
What if my flight is delayed?
Tell us your flight number so we can adjust the plan. Please contact us about a delay so we can confirm what is possible.
Nearby
Ready to plan your Hokkaido trip?
Tell us your dates and route. We reply within one business day.
Departing within 3 days? Message us on WhatsApp.