Transfers and Taxi from New Chitose Airport (CTS) – Prices, Time to City and Tips

Upon arrival at New Chitose Airport (CTS), you have several options for getting to Sapporo city center or your accommodation. The choice depends on your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your comfort needs. In this article, we will review the most common modes of transport to help you choose the best solution.

Taxi from the Airport

Official taxi ranks are located at the airport exits, clearly marked. Taxi drivers generally do not speak fluent English, so it is advisable to write the name of your destination in Japanese as well, or show the address of your accommodation. Taxis are generally reliable and comfortable, but the cost of getting to the city center can be higher than other modes of transport. Depending on traffic, the journey to Sapporo city center can take 45-90 minutes.

Private Transfer

Private transfers can be booked in advance, and a driver will wait for you at the airport at a predetermined location. The meeting point must be specified exactly during the booking. The advantage of a private transfer is comfort and personalized service. Prices are usually fixed, and the total cost must be clearly agreed upon during booking. A private transfer to Sapporo city center can cost around 50-100 EUR, depending on the distance and vehicle type.

Shared Transfers and Minibuses

Shared transfers and minibuses are a more cost-effective solution, especially if you are traveling alone or in a small group. These vehicles carry multiple passengers, so the waiting time may be longer as the driver has to wait for everyone to gather. Shared transfers usually drop off passengers at several stops in the city center. The price of a shared transfer to Sapporo city center can be around 20-40 EUR.

Public Transportation

You can reach Sapporo city center from New Chitose Airport by train, subway, and bus. The train is the fastest and most comfortable solution, but ticket prices may be higher. The bus is the cheapest, but the journey time is longer. Public transport may be the best option if you have time and want to save money.

Mode of Transport Duration (approx.) Price (EUR, approx.)
Taxi 45-90 minutes 70-120
Private Transfer 40-70 minutes 50-100
Shared Transfer 60-90 minutes 20-40
Train/Subway 37-45 minutes 20-30
Bus 60-80 minutes 10-20

The above times and prices may vary depending on traffic and the season.

From New Chitose Airport, you can easily reach nearby cities such as Otaru or Niseko. By train, you can reach Otaru city in about 30-40 minutes, and Niseko ski resort in about 2-3 hours.

FAQ

Where can I find the taxi rank at the airport?

Taxi ranks are located at the airport exits, clearly marked.

How long does it take to get to the city center by taxi?

The journey to Sapporo city center can take 45-90 minutes, depending on traffic.

How do I book a private transfer?

You can book a private transfer online in advance, or at offices located at the airport.

What is the advantage of a shared transfer?

A shared transfer is more cost-effective than a taxi or private transfer.

How long does the train journey to the city center take?

The train journey from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo city center takes approximately 37-45 minutes.

What payment methods do taxis accept?

Taxis generally accept both cash and credit cards.

Do I need Japanese Yen for the taxi?

Not necessarily, but credit card acceptance is not guaranteed everywhere.

How can I get to Otaru from the airport?

You can reach Otaru city by train from New Chitose Airport, the journey time is approximately 30-40 minutes.

Is there free wifi at the airport?

Yes, free wifi is available at New Chitose Airport.

Where can I find a currency exchange at the airport?

Currency exchange offices can be found at various points throughout the airport.

What languages do taxi drivers speak?

Taxi drivers generally do not speak fluent English, so it is advisable to write the name of your destination in Japanese as well.

More airport transfer pages