How to get from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station
Cities & Metropolitan Areas · Japan · Urban & Cultural · New Chitose Airport · Sapporo · Sapporo Station
Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS) is about 45km from downtown, and getting to Sapporo Station is easy thanks to the JR Rapid Airport train, frequent airport buses, and taxis or private transfers; this guide walks through each option with typical times, fares and step-by-step instructions so you can pick the right balance of speed, comfort and cost.
At A Glance (Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🚆 JR Rapid Airport Train (New Chitose Airport → Sapporo) | ~35–40 minutes platform to platform | Fast, frequent, reliable in winter |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~JPY 1,150–1,800 one-way depending on seat type » compare train times | online tickets | ||
| 🚌 Airport Limousine Buses (New Chitose Airport → Sapporo Station) | ~60–80 minutes, traffic-dependent | Budget, big luggage, no transfers |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~JPY 1,100–1,300 one-way » compare bus & train options | official bus info | ||
| 🚖 Taxi or Private Transfer | ~45–70 minutes to central Sapporo | Door-to-door comfort, late arrivals |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~JPY 16,000–22,000 per car » sample taxi prices | fixed-price transfers | ||
| 🚗 Rental Car / Self-Drive | ~45–70 minutes via expressway | Road trips around Hokkaido |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~JPY 7,000–12,000/day compact car + tolls/fuel » compare airport rentals | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest / Most Convenient for Most Travellers: JR Rapid Airport train – fast, frequent, and not affected by road traffic; ideal if your hotel is near Sapporo Station or along JR lines.
- Cheapest / Easiest with Luggage: Airport buses run directly to Sapporo Station and major hotels, with underfloor luggage storage and no need to navigate station stairways.
- Most Comfortable Door-to-Door: Taxi or private transfer is best for families, groups, or late-night/early-morning arrivals when you just want to be dropped at your accommodation.
- Best for Hokkaido Road Trips: If you’re heading straight to ski resorts or national parks, a rental car from the airport lets you skip Sapporo Station completely and drive directly to your first stop.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- Compare trains, buses and taxis in one place: Use 12Go to see train and taxi options between New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, including approximate travel times and fares.
- Buy rail tickets online or at the station: You can pre-book JR airport train tickets on Klook’s New Chitose→Sapporo train page or via train products on Trip.com, or simply buy from machines and counters at the airport JR station.
- Look into rail passes: If you’ll be riding multiple intercity trains, passes like the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass may be good value; see eligibility and coverage on the JR Hokkaido Pass guide before you buy individual tickets.
- Bus information desks: For live schedules and bus stop numbers, consult the transportation counters listed on the airport’s official access page or the operators’ own sites from there.
- Luggage and lockers: Sapporo Station has coin lockers, but in peak ski season they can fill quickly; for more flexible storage near downtown or Susukino, prebook space via Radical Storage Sapporo.
- Bikes and local transport: Once you’re in the city, cycling is fun in warmer months; compare rentals worldwide (including Japan) on BikesBooking or use local share-cycle services like Porocle.
- Hotels near Sapporo Station: If you want to minimise walking with bags, filter properties close to the station on Booking.com (Sapporo Station area).
- Private transfers vs. taxis: Pre-booking a car through GetTransfer can give you a fixed quote in advance; on arrival-day you can also use local taxi apps such as GO, or hotel-arranged taxis.
🚆 Option #1 — JR Rapid Airport Train (Most Popular, Fast & Reliable)
Fast & frequent Direct to Sapporo Station Limited luggage space at peaks
- Overview: JR Hokkaido’s Rapid Airport service connects New Chitose Airport and Sapporo Station in about 35–40 minutes, with trains usually departing every 15 minutes at busy times. Trains run from early morning to late at night and are generally the quickest and most reliable way into the city, even in snowy weather.
- How to book (with price): A regular one-way ticket from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo is typically around JPY 1,150–1,800 depending on whether you add a reserved “u-seat” supplement. You can buy tickets on the spot at JR ticket machines or counters, or check official details on JR Hokkaido’s Rapid Airport information page. For advance planning or passes, compare options on 12Go’s train listings, Klook train tickets or Trip.com.
- Pros: Quickest public transport; runs very frequently; no road-traffic delays; direct to Sapporo Station which is a major hub for onward JR and subway lines.
- Cons: Trains can be crowded at peak hours and during ski season; you may need to stand if you don’t secure a reserved seat; luggage space is limited to overhead racks and a few storage areas near doors.
Step-by-step: JR Rapid Airport Train
- Follow signs to JR Station: After leaving baggage claim in either the Domestic or International terminal, follow “JR Line” signs through the indoor corridor to New Chitose Airport Station in the basement.
- Buy your ticket or use IC card: Use ticket machines (English available) or the JR ticket office to buy a ticket to Sapporo. If you’re using an IC card such as Kitaca or Suica, simply top up and tap in at the gates.
- Check departure boards: Look for trains labelled “Rapid Airport” bound for Sapporo/Otaru. Most trains stop at Sapporo; some continue beyond. Confirm the departure time and platform number.
- Board the correct car: If you have a reserved seat, check the car and seat number printed on your ticket. Otherwise, board a non-reserved car and find any free seat or standing space.
- Ride to Sapporo Station: Enjoy the 35–40 minute ride. Announcements and displays show the next stop in Japanese and English. When you arrive at Sapporo, follow the signs to the ticket gates, exits, or subway transfers (Namboku and Toho Lines).
Getting to the main embarking points (New Chitose Airport JR Station)
- From Domestic Terminal: Take the escalators or elevators down from arrivals and follow the covered passageway to the shared JR station concourse.
- From International Terminal: Walk the signed indoor walkway or use the free terminal shuttle to reach the Domestic building and JR station.
- From Sapporo (for the return): At Sapporo Station, follow “JR Lines” then “Airport” signage to the correct platform; allow extra time during rush hour or snowy days.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚌 Option #2 — Airport Limousine & Shuttle Buses (Good Value, Luggage-Friendly)
Low cost No transfers Traffic-dependent
- Overview: Jointly operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Hokuto Kotsu, airport buses run roughly every 15–20 minutes between New Chitose Airport and Sapporo city, including stops near Sapporo Station and major hotels. Journey time is usually about 60–80 minutes depending on traffic and weather.
- How to book (with price): Fares between the airport and Sapporo city centre are typically around JPY 1,100–1,300. You can pay at the bus ticket counters or onboard (cash or IC cards on many routes). Timetables and platform information are listed on the airport’s official bus access page and Hokuto Kotsu’s Sapporo⇔New Chitose overview. For planning, you can also see bus vs. train options on 12Go or shuttle-style transfers on Klook’s airport buses page.
- Pros: No need to carry luggage through stations; easy boarding at the terminal door; some buses stop close to hotels, parks and shopping areas.
- Cons: Slower than the train and subject to traffic delays, especially in snowy or rush-hour conditions; fixed stops mean less flexibility than door-to-door taxis.
Step-by-step: Airport Bus to Sapporo Station
- Go to the bus ticket area: After exiting customs, follow “Bus” or “Limousine Bus” signs to the bus counters on the first floor of the terminal.
- Confirm your stop: Ask staff for a bus to Sapporo Station or central Sapporo (many routes list destinations like “Sapporo Station” or “Susukino”). They will tell you the platform number and next departure time.
- Purchase tickets: Buy a one-way or round-trip ticket at the counter or prepare cash/IC card if paying onboard, following the operator’s instructions.
- Board at the correct platform: Proceed to the indicated bus stop outside the terminal, put large bags in the underfloor compartment and keep valuables with you.
- Ride into Sapporo: Stay on until the Sapporo Station stop is announced. From the bus stop it’s a short walk into the station building or nearby hotels.
Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Bus Stops)
- From Domestic Terminal: Bus platforms are just outside the arrivals level; follow signage for “Sapporo City Center” or check the platform list on the airport bus page.
- From International Terminal: Either board at the dedicated international-side stops (if available) or use the shuttle/indoor route to the Domestic building bus area.
- From Sapporo (return buses): Return buses depart from stops around Sapporo Station and downtown; check the operator’s map via the airport’s bus information page or Hokuto Kotsu’s route guide.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚖 Option #3 — Taxi or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Convenience)
Most comfortable Direct to your hotel Highest cost
- Overview: Taxis and prebooked private transfers connect New Chitose Airport directly with Sapporo Station or any city hotel, taking around 45–70 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. This is the easiest option if you have lots of luggage, are travelling with young children, or arrive very late.
- How to book (with price): Metered or fixed-fare taxis from the airport to central Sapporo often cost roughly JPY 16,000–22,000 per car, depending on the company and tolls. You can check ballpark prices on 12Go’s taxi listings or prebook a private car via GetTransfer Sapporo for a fixed quote. Once in the city, you can also use local ride-hailing apps like GO (JapanTaxi) or Uber where available.
- Pros: True door-to-door service; no transfers or ticket machines; great when arriving late at night or with ski gear.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than trains and buses; still subject to congestion and winter road conditions; you’ll need to communicate your address clearly (ideally printed in Japanese).
Step-by-step: Taxi or Private Transfer
- Prebook if possible: Before travelling, reserve a car on GetTransfer (or via your hotel) and provide your flight details and destination so the driver can track delays.
- Exit to the arrivals area: After customs, meet your prebooked driver in the arrivals hall (they usually hold a name sign) or follow “Taxi” signs to the official taxi queue outside.
- Confirm fare and destination: Show your hotel name and address (plus a map if possible). For fixed-fare taxis, confirm the agreed zone and price before departure.
- Load luggage and depart: The driver will help stow bags in the trunk. Expect to use the expressway for a faster run into Sapporo.
- Arrive at Sapporo Station or your hotel: Pay in cash or card where accepted; some private transfer bookings are prepaid online so there’s nothing more to do on arrival.
Getting to the main embarking points (Taxi Ranks & Pickup Zones)
- From Domestic & International Terminals: Official taxi ranks are just outside the arrivals floors; follow the taxi signs and join the organised queue for city-bound taxis.
- For prebooked transfers: Your driver will usually meet you in the arrivals hall and escort you to a nearby short-term parking or pickup bay.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚗 Option #4 — Rental Car / Self-Drive (For Hokkaido Road Trips)
Flexible Great for onward travel Winter driving skills needed
- Overview: If Sapporo is just your first stop before exploring Hokkaido’s ski resorts, onsen towns or national parks, renting a car at New Chitose Airport can be convenient. The drive to Sapporo Station area takes around 45–70 minutes via expressways, with paid tolls.
- How to book (with price): Compact rentals typically start around JPY 7,000–12,000 per day excluding fuel and tolls. Compare airport pickup options and inclusions (winter tyres, English GPS, insurance) on Booking.com Car Rental at CTS. For multi-day trips, double-check mileage limits and one-way drop-off fees.
- Pros: Ideal for ski gear and large suitcases; full control over your schedule; easy to continue to spots like Niseko, Otaru or Furano after Sapporo.
- Cons: Not necessary if you only stay in central Sapporo; expressway tolls add cost; winter conditions can be challenging if you’re not used to snow and ice.
Step-by-step: Rental Car from New Chitose Airport
- Reserve in advance: Secure a car (with winter tyres in cold months) via Booking.com Car Rental so your vehicle is ready when you land.
- Reach the rental counters: After arrivals, follow signs for “Rent-a-car” to reach the rental company desks or shuttle pickup points.
- Complete paperwork: Show your passport, reservation and international driving permit (if required), then review insurance, ETC toll card options and return arrangements.
- Collect your vehicle: Staff will direct you to the car park or shuttle you there. Inspect the car and note any existing damage before driving away.
- Drive to Sapporo Station: Use the expressway route towards Sapporo; many rentals include GPS in English. Once in the city, follow signage to parking near Sapporo Station or your hotel.
Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Rental Car Areas)
- From terminals: Rental car counters or shuttle pick-up points are located in clearly signed areas; allow extra time in winter when demand is high.
- Returning the car: For departures, follow the rental company’s map back to their airport facility; most offer a shuttle to the terminal after you return the car.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station)
How long does it take to get from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station?
For most travellers the JR Rapid Airport train takes about 35–40 minutes, while airport buses usually take 60–80 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis and rental cars are similar to buses in travel time but can be faster outside rush hours.
What is the cheapest way to reach Sapporo Station from the airport?
The lowest typical cash fare is usually on the airport buses run by Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Hokuto Kotsu (around JPY 1,100–1,300). Local JR trains are also reasonably priced, and you can compare up-to-date fares on planners like 12Go, Klook or Trip.com before you travel.
Do I need to book the JR Rapid Airport train in advance?
No reservation is strictly required for standard seats; you can buy a ticket on the day and board any Rapid Airport service. However, in peak seasons or with lots of luggage, reserving a “u-seat” can guarantee you a place to sit. Some rail passes also require you to obtain a seat reservation before boarding.
Are buses and trains affected by snow in winter?
Hokkaido is well set up for winter, and both bus and rail services generally continue running in snowy conditions. That said, heavy snow and storms can cause delays and occasional cancellations, especially on the roads, so allow extra time and check live information at the airport’s transport counters or on official operator websites.
Can I store my luggage near Sapporo Station if I arrive before hotel check-in?
Yes. Sapporo Station has coin lockers and some staffed storage, but during busy periods they can fill quickly. You can also prebook off-station storage using Radical Storage Sapporo, which has multiple partner locations around central Sapporo and Susukino.