New Chitose Airport

Update 2 (14/11/2025): I took my domestic flight going to Osaka and have 2 hours to roam at this airport. Feels like a mall with an airport. Too many stores selling souvenirs. It can get really overwhelming especially if you have limited luggage. I think it's the same price in Tanukikoji Shopping Street. Extremely efficient airport. From leaving the plane, to immigration and customs, took me only 10minutes. This os one of the best airport in Japan.

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.

For those of you arriving at the international airport and plan to take the airport bus / liner into Sapporo Town look for no 84. The bus comes about every 10 mins however they may go to different locations including Sapporo Beer Museum. The buses are operated by 2 different companies Chuo and another that starts with H (Green bus) post the stops for ease of reference. If you stay at Monterey Edelhof then it's right at the front. I stayed there and you can see my review. The que for this route can be quite long so do expect waiting time of about 30 mins.

Probably the best airport I've been to and I've been to a lot. It's not the newest or the most architecturally stunning airport but it has the most to offer. Countless places to gwt some great food at a good price, a beer or even some unique souvenirs at a great price which is rare at airports. One architectural point of note is the long arc of the terminal, which allows one a view of the planes and runway at any gate. Tip: if it's too busy near your gate, just walk away to a quieter spot and get a seat and a view. Just make sure you get to your gate on time!

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!

I would like to thank staff at the Tourist Information Centre. We landed in Chistose from Brisbane and went to an English speaking staff member on the day we landed and she saw our drafted itinerary with day trip from Sapporo. The lady that helped us was kind and very helpful, she helped us organise our Otaru and Cape Kumari day trip. Where we were thinking of paying over 3 times on a taxi, she organised our Shako Shuttle Bus to Cape Kumai from Bikuni and saved a lot of money. The shakotan peninsula was beautiful and she reserved our seats and gave us a time to leave Otaru to Bikuni. We are most grateful to her for scheduling our shuttle bus.

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.

Love the vibes here! Make sure you come earlier, there’s so many resto, foodcourt and shops and even onsen spa. It’s Just like little Japan in one place. But they close pretty early like 7-8pm.