New Chitose Airport
Hokkaido's gateway, this airport is a destination with shops, dining, a movie theater, and even an onsen!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Eateries open up
New Chitose Airport
Best Time
Eateries open up
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hokkaido's gateway, this airport is a destination with shops, dining, a movie theater, and even an onsen!
"It's often called 'the airport you don't want to leave' because there's so much to eat, shop, and experience!"
✈️ Arrive Early for Fun
Don't treat it like a normal airport; it's a destination! Allow extra time to explore.
🛍️ Shop Before Security
Most shops & eateries are pre-security. Enjoy them before heading to your gate!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SNOWS Snacks
Various locations
Indulge in incredibly delicious, often long-queue-worthy snacks from SNOWS. Their signature 'snow sand' is a must-try!
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Disney Store Pop-Up
Domestic Terminal, 2nd Floor
Discover limited-edition Disney goods, including airport-exclusive items. A magical stop for fans!
Airport Stamp Rally
Various locations
Engage in a fun stamp rally for unique souvenirs. A satisfying activity for travelers of all ages.
Local Delicacies & Souvenirs
Pre-security area
Savor Hokkaido's best: soup curry, ramen, seafood bowls, and exquisite chocolates. Perfect for last-minute gifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Rush Your Departure!
+1Post-Security Options Are Limited
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Arrive Early for Fun
Don't treat it like a normal airport; it's a destination! Allow extra time to explore.
🛍️ Shop Before Security
Most shops & eateries are pre-security. Enjoy them before heading to your gate!
🦀 Buy Fresh Seafood
You can even purchase fresh, raw crabs to take home!
✍️ Collect Free Stamps
Participate in the airport stamp rally for unique souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Arrive Early for Fun
Don't treat it like a normal airport; it's a destination! Allow extra time to explore.
🛍️ Shop Before Security
Most shops & eateries are pre-security. Enjoy them before heading to your gate!
🦀 Buy Fresh Seafood
You can even purchase fresh, raw crabs to take home!
✍️ Collect Free Stamps
Participate in the airport stamp rally for unique souvenirs.
🗣️ English-Speaking Staff
Most staff speak English, making it easy for international travelers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
New Chitose Airport is widely praised as a modern, clean, and welcoming hub that feels like a destination in itself. Visitors love the extensive pre-security dining and shopping options, featuring delicious Hokkaido specialties and unique souvenirs. While the post-security area is less varied, the overall experience is efficient, organized, and charming, leaving a positive impression of Hokkaido.
"New Chitose Airport is a great example of how a regional hub can feel both modern and welcoming. The terminal is impressively clean with a warm, airy design — lots of natural light, wood accents, and an inviting layout that makes waiting for flights less stressful.
Before departure, the airport really shines. There are plenty of food options, from casual Hokkaido specialties like soup curry, ramen, and seafood bowls, to popular cafés and bakeries, plus well-stocked souvenir shops filled with local chocolates and dairy products. It’s easy to enjoy a proper meal or pick up last-minute gifts before your flight.
However, once you pass through customs and security, the choices narrow considerably. The post-immigration area has only a few shops and dining spots, which can feel underwhelming compared to the lively pre-departure zone. Travelers who want variety are better off eating or shopping before crossing into the secure area.
Overall, though, New Chitose is a very good airport: clean, efficient, and friendly, with a touch of Hokkaido charm. It provides a smooth travel experience, especially for those connecting between domestic and international flights, and makes a great final stop before leaving the island."
Min Min
"New Chitose Airport is honestly my favorite airport in Japan!
It’s not just a place to catch a flight — it’s a destination in itself.
There are tons of souvenir shops, selling everything from sweets and snacks to high-quality local products. So many options to choose from — you’ll want to spend extra time here, trust me.
There are also plenty of cute photo spots and check-in areas, making it fun even before your flight.
And if you’re flying domestic, you’ll be surprised how enjoyable the experience is — smooth, organized, and full of charm.
Get your luggage ready, because you might leave with a lot more than you came with!"
Nana Relax
"Nice, clean, and comfortable airport. It’s not huge, but has a good selection of restaurants and shops for travelers. We arrived early, so many eateries were still closed—most open at 9:00. Facilities are well-maintained, and signage makes it easy to get around. Security and check-in were smooth. There are souvenir shops selling Hokkaido specialties like Shiroi Koibito cookies and Royce chocolates, great for last-minute gifts. Seating is comfortable, with plenty of charging spots. There’s also a kids’ play area and an on-site hot spring. The airport feels organized and relaxed, making it a pleasant place to start or end a trip."
Pechaporn Pornpraipech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The JR train is the most convenient way to reach Sapporo from New Chitose Airport. The airport station is located on the Lower Ground floor (B1). Trains run every 12 minutes and the journey takes less than 40 minutes.
The first train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo typically departs around 6:30 AM.
The last train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo usually departs just before 11:00 PM.
For an 8 AM domestic flight with a 40-minute train journey, taking the first train at 5:50 AM might be cutting it close, especially with international connections. Consider staying at an airport hotel or in Chitose the night before.
Yes, taxis are available at New Chitose Airport. They offer a more direct but more expensive option compared to the train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most attractions within the airport, like shops and restaurants, do not require advance ticket purchase. However, special pop-up events, like the Disney Store, may have limited operating periods.
Many shops and restaurants in the pre-security area open around 9:00 AM, but some may open earlier. It's advisable to check specific opening times if you plan to visit early. Most establishments close around 7-8 PM.
No, there is no entrance fee to access New Chitose Airport. You can freely explore the public areas, shops, and restaurants.
Yes, New Chitose Airport often hosts seasonal pop-up shops and events, such as the limited-time Disney Store. Keep an eye on their official announcements for current offerings.
Yes, you can purchase train tickets for travel to Sapporo and other destinations at the JR ticket office located within the airport.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss out on Hokkaido specialties like soup curry, ramen, fresh seafood bowls, and popular sweets like SNOWS snacks and Royce chocolates. +1
Absolutely! The airport is packed with souvenir shops offering local Hokkaido products, including sweets, dairy products, and exclusive airport-themed items.
Yes, the airport features a children's play area and a unique stuffed-animal museum, making it a fun stop for families.
Yes, New Chitose Airport even has an on-site hot spring (onsen) for a relaxing experience before or after your flight.
The airport offers many cute photo spots and check-in areas, adding to the enjoyable pre-flight experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of dining options, including casual Hokkaido specialties like soup curry and ramen, seafood bowls, popular cafes, and bakeries.
Yes, you can purchase fresh, raw crabs and other seafood items at designated shops within the airport.
While specific vegetarian or vegan options might vary, many restaurants offer noodle dishes and rice bowls that can often be adapted. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant staff.
Popular snacks like SNOWS and various Royce chocolates are highly sought after and can be found in dedicated confectionery shops. Be prepared for potential queues for SNOWS.
Yes, New Chitose Airport has food courts offering a selection of local and international cuisines, providing a more budget-friendly dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The airport itself offers many aesthetically pleasing areas, from its modern architecture with natural light and wood accents to its unique shops and displays. Look for the 'cute photo spots' mentioned by visitors.
Yes, like most airports, you can take photos of aircraft from designated viewing areas or through terminal windows. Be mindful of any security restrictions.
Many shops feature Hokkaido-themed products and displays, offering colorful and unique photo opportunities. The airport's overall design also reflects Hokkaido's natural beauty.
Absolutely! The presentation of food in Japan is often artful. Many dishes, especially local specialties, are visually appealing and make for great photos.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the airport's architecture and atmosphere. A fast prime lens can be good for low-light conditions inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies
Arrive early to fully explore the pre-security dining and shopping areas, as post-security options are limited. ✈️ Budget Travelers
Taking the JR train to and from Sapporo is significantly cheaper than a taxi. Consider packing some snacks or purchasing them from convenience stores within the airport to save on costs.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Delights of New Chitose Airport
Beyond main meals, the airport boasts numerous cafes and bakeries, perfect for a sweet indulgence or a coffee break. Souvenir shops are also brimming with edible delights, particularly Hokkaido dairy products and world-renowned Royce chocolates. It's the ideal place to pick up last-minute edible gifts or to savor a final taste of Hokkaido before your departure.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, food courts offer a variety of choices. However, it's worth noting that many eateries have an earlier closing time, often around 7-8 PM, so planning your culinary exploration accordingly is advised.
Shopping and Unique Experiences
Beyond standard duty-free and souvenir shops, you'll find a Disney Store pop-up, offering limited-edition and airport-exclusive merchandise, a must-visit for fans. The airport also caters to families with a dedicated children's play area and a charming stuffed-animal museum. For ultimate relaxation, an on-site hot spring (onsen) provides a unique opportunity to unwind before or after your flight.
When it comes to souvenirs, the selection is vast, ranging from local crafts and specialty foods to high-quality Hokkaido products. It's the perfect place to find those last-minute gifts or personal mementos of your trip.
Navigating to and from the Airport
The most popular and practical mode of transport to Sapporo is the JR Rapid Airport train. These trains run frequently, typically every 12 minutes throughout the day, and the journey to Sapporo Station takes approximately 40 minutes.
The first train usually departs around 6:30 AM, and the last train runs just before 11:00 PM, offering flexibility for most travel schedules. For travelers with very early flights, such as an 8 AM domestic departure requiring an international connection, relying solely on the first train might be risky. Reddit users suggest considering an overnight stay at an airport hotel or in the nearby city of Chitose to ensure a stress-free start to your travel day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit