Alright folks, Welcome to Sapporo!
So glad you made the long journey here! You’ve landed at New Chitose Airport (CTS), ready to hit Sapporo city center, but… how exactly do you get there? Which way’s best? Don’t you worry! As a Sapporo local, I’m here to break it all down for you – easy to understand, and I’ll give you the “real deal,” no sugar-coating.
And hey, if you get stuck or need more details along the way, the airport has a fantastic Tourist Information Center specifically for international visitors. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help!
Let’s figure out the best way for your travel style and budget, so you can kick off your Sapporo stay smoothly!
【My Top Pick!】Fast & Affordable: The JR Rapid Airport Train
- The Local Lowdown: Honestly, this is hands-down my top recommendation. Why? It’s affordable and the fastest way, period. Plus, it’s super straightforward – just hop on, and it takes you right to Sapporo Station. No brainer, really.
- Pros:
- It’s FAST! We’re talking as quick as 37 minutes to Sapporo Station. Nothing else beats that.
- Frequent Service! Trains run about every 15 minutes, so you won’t be waiting around forever.
- Direct to Sapporo Station! You arrive right in the heart of the city, making transfers to the subway or other destinations a breeze.
- Cons:
- It Can Get Crowded (Non-Reserved)! Especially during peak tourist season or commuting hours, finding a seat in the non-reserved cars can be tough. It can feel a bit tight if you’re wrestling with big suitcases.
- Price: ¥1,150 per adult (one-way, non-reserved seat)
- Travel Time: Approx. 37-40 minutes.
- Where to Catch It: Head down to the B1F (basement level) of the Domestic Terminal building – look for “JR New Chitose Airport Station.”
- Tickets: Easy peasy. Use the ticket machines (they have English options). Or, if you have a Japanese IC card like Suica, Pasmo, Kitaca, etc., just tap it on the reader!
- Local Tips:
- Treat Yourself to the “u-seat”! For an extra ¥840, you can reserve a seat in the “u-seat” car. This is absolutely worth it. You’re guaranteed a spot, the seats are a bit roomier, and they recline. Perfect for relaxing after your flight. If you’re comfortable navigating Japan, definitely go for this.
- First Time in Japan? Okay, maybe buying a reserved “u-seat” ticket right off the bat feels a bit daunting. No worries! Head straight to the Tourist Information Center at the airport. They’re super helpful and can walk you through buying the ticket. Check their info here: https://www.hokkaido-airports.com/en/new-chitose/service/information/tourist-info/
- Heads Up! Don’t Get Off at “Shin-Sapporo”! There’s a station called “Shin-Sapporo” (New Sapporo) before the main Sapporo Station, and the Rapid Airport train stops there too. Do not get off here! Stay on until the final stop, “Sapporo.” I once helped a confused tourist lady who almost got off there, so be careful!
Easy, But… Time Might Be an Issue? Airport Limousine Bus
- The Local Lowdown: Okay, gonna be honest here… I don’t really recommend the bus that much. I’ll tell you why below.
- Pros:
- Good Chance of Getting a Seat. They generally operate on a seating-capacity basis, so unless it’s packed, you’ll likely sit down.
- Luggage Storage. They stow your big suitcases underneath, which is handy. You can travel light inside.
- Can Go Directly to Some Hotels/Areas. Some routes go beyond Sapporo Station, stopping near major hotels in areas like Odori, Susukino, or Nakajima Park.
- Cons:
- It Takes Longer. Expect around 70-80 minutes to the city center. That’s nearly double the JR train time.
- Traffic Risk! If the roads are busy (especially evenings), it can take even longer. It’s less predictable time-wise, which can be stressful if you’re on a schedule.
- Price: Around ¥1,300 per adult (one-way, varies slightly by destination).
- Travel Time: Approx. 70-80 minutes (depends heavily on traffic).
- Where to Catch It: Outside the 1F arrival lobby of the Domestic Terminal (there are stops for international too). Look for the bus company signs.
- Tickets: Use the ticket machines near the bus stops or buy at the bus company counter. Some buses accept IC cards.
- Local Tips:
- Why Not Recommended? Once you get to Sapporo Station via the JR train, it’s really easy to get anywhere else in the city center by subway or taxi. Sapporo’s core is quite compact. Given the bus takes longer and is subject to traffic jams, unless you have massive amounts of luggage or a bus stop is literally right outside your hotel door, the JR train is just faster and more reliable.
An Option if Budget Allows: Taxi
- The Local Lowdown: The main drawback is the price tag. It’s expensive. But hey, in certain situations, it makes sense.
- Pros:
- Ultimate Door-to-Door Convenience. Airport arrival lobby straight to your hotel entrance. Can’t beat the ease, especially if you’re tired or traveling with family and lots of gear.
- Taxis in Japan are SAFE! Japan is incredibly safe, and you basically never have to worry about being ripped off by a taxi driver here. Trust me, I remember the shock of my first time getting ripped off overseas (lol), but that almost never happens in Japan. Relax and enjoy the ride.
- Split the Fare in a Group. If there are 3 or 4 of you, the cost per person might end up being somewhat comparable to the bus, maybe?
- Cons:
- It’s Pricey! Expect to pay roughly ¥15,000 – ¥20,000 (including potential highway tolls) to get to the Sapporo city center. That’s a significant jump from the JR train.
- Traffic Risk! Just like the bus, you’re at the mercy of road conditions.
- Language Barrier? Not all drivers speak English fluently.
- Price: Approx. ¥15,000 – ¥20,000 (may be extra for highway tolls, surcharges for late night).
- Travel Time: Approx. 60-70 minutes (depends on traffic).
- Where to Catch It: There are clearly marked taxi stands outside the 1F level of both terminals.
- Local Tips:
- Show Them Your Hotel Info! Before you get in, have a piece of paper or your phone ready showing your hotel’s name and address. Having it written in Japanese is a HUGE help if possible, as not all drivers read English well. A map is great too.
- Flat-Rate Taxis Exist. You might need to book these in advance, but some companies offer fixed-fare taxi services between the airport and the city. Worth looking into if you want price certainty.
- The Bottom Line… If money isn’t a major concern and you prioritize maximum convenience, go for the taxi. Otherwise, the JR train is still my general recommendation.
Freedom, But With Caveats! Rental Car
- The Local Lowdown: Probably unnecessary if you’re just staying within Sapporo city, but a good option if you plan to explore the outskirts. However, be extra careful with winter driving!
- Pros:
- Explore Wider Hokkaido! Perfect if you want to visit places like Otaru, Furano, Biei, or other areas outside Sapporo.
- Travel at Your Own Pace. Freedom to stop wherever you like, whenever you like.
- Cons:
- Requires Driving Confidence! Japan drives on the left, and Sapporo has its share of one-way streets.
- Winter Driving Needs Extreme Caution! From around November to March, roads are often snowy or covered in treacherous ice (including hard-to-see “black ice”). Honestly, if this is your first trip overseas AND your first time driving in snow/ice conditions, I strongly advise against renting a car in winter. It’s risky, and even locals drive very cautiously. You’d be better off considering other transport options. The risk of accidents is significantly higher.
- Parking Hassles & Costs. Finding and paying for parking in the city center can be annoying and add up.
- Getting One: Rental counters are inside the airport terminals. Booking ahead is highly recommended. Don’t forget your International Driving Permit!
- Local Tips:
- Think About Your Whole Trip. Where do you really want to go? Is driving essential for your itinerary? Decide based on your overall plans. I have noticed more international visitors driving rental cars lately, so it’s definitely becoming more common.
- If You Do Drive in Winter… If you have solid experience driving in snowy/icy conditions, maybe it’s something you could consider. BUT! Please, please be incredibly careful. Drive much slower than you would in summer. Leave tons of space between you and the car ahead. Avoid any sudden braking, accelerating, or steering – anything “sudden” can cause a skid. Slow and steady is the only way.
Wrapping Up: So, What’s the Best Choice?
- 【Top Recommendation】JR Rapid Airport Train! Fast, affordable, easy. Consider the “u-seat” if you want extra comfort. If you’re a first-timer and unsure, ask the Tourist Information Center for help!
- 【Comfort/Budget Allows】Taxi! Super convenient, safe (no rip-offs). Have your hotel info ready. Great for families.
- 【Exploring Beyond Sapporo (Non-Winter or Experienced Winter Driver)】Rental Car! Be extremely cautious if driving in winter. Strongly reconsider if it’s your first time with overseas/snow driving. Weigh the pros/cons against your itinerary and driving skills.
- 【Only if Luggage is Massive?】Airport Limousine Bus. Time and traffic make it less ideal compared to the JR, in my opinion.
When in Doubt, Ask the Experts at the Airport! The staff at the New Chitose Airport Tourist Information Center are there to help you figure out the best way to get to Sapporo and assist with tickets.
- Tourist Information Center: https://www.hokkaido-airports.com/en/new-chitose/service/information/tourist-info/
Alright, you should be all set for your transfer from the airport! Amazing food, beautiful scenery, and friendly people await you in Sapporo. Hope you have the best time!
Have a fantastic trip in Sapporo!
