Sapporo is Japan’s northernmost ordinance-designated city. The city has a population of 1.95 million, the fourth largest in Japan. Sapporo is one of the few cities in Japan to have a mild and humidity-free summer, and in the winter it can see snowfall amounts reach upwards of five meters. This climate provides the city with unique and sharp contrasts in each of the four seasons.
1. Airport
Given the travel time, it’s best to come to Sapporo by a speedy plane. New Chitose Airport, approximately 45 kilometers from downtown Sapporo, is Hokkaido’s largest airport, with direct flights to 30 cities across Japan. It ranks second in domestic passenger traffic, with over 15.23 million passengers annually. The Tokyo (Haneda) – Sapporo (New Chitose) route stands out, with over 3.76 million passengers per year, making it one of the world’s busiest routes. As the gateway to Hokkaido by air, New Chitose Airport plays a critical role.
2. From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo City
By railway (JR)
JR is the fastest means of transportation to Sapporo City. The Rapid Airport train to Sapporo runs approximately every 12 minutes (except early morning and late night) from 8:00 to 22:00 and takes passengers from the airport to Sapporo Station the quickest in just 37 minutes. If traveling prior to 8:00, you can take the local train bound for Sapporo. JR Hokkaido New Chitose Airport Station is directly connected with the first basement floor of the airport terminal building.
By bus
Chuo Bus operate services from the airport to Sapporo City departing every 10–15 minutes. The bus takes approximately 70 minutes to arrive in central Sapporo. There are bus terminals at two locations on the first floor of the domestic terminal and at one location on the first floor of the international terminal. Tickets can be purchased at the bus counter or from ticket vending machines and used for buses from the company. There are also special deals such as round-trip tickets and coupon tickets.
By taxi
There are taxi stands in two locations outside the domestic terminal exits and at one location outside the international terminal exit, where taxis are waiting at all times. The trip from New Chitose Airport to JR Sapporo Station takes around 60 minutes by car and will cost around 10,000–13,000 yen depending on the traffic conditions (a separate expressway fee is required). Some taxi companies also offer a fixed-price service to Sapporo city beginning from ¥7,000 (booking and a separate expressway fee are required).
3. Money in Japan
The currency of Japan is the yen. Most major credit cards such as American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Diners Club are accepted at major stores and facilities. Be aware that some facilities do not accept credit cards at all, and others may accept only certain types, so always carry some cash with you.
4. Tipping
There is no tipping culture in Japan. Simply pay whatever is on the final bill you receive at cafes, bars and restaurants. A few restaurants will add a fixed percentage service charge to the bill.
5. Voltage
Since Voltage in Sapporo is 100 V (50 Hz) and varies from many other countries, consider bringing a travel adapter with voltage transformer to charge devices. Shape of outlet (plug) is type A.
6. Weather in September
The average temperature in Sapporo in September is around 18 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally mild, but it can get a bit cool in the mornings and evenings, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
