Hokkaido, Japan’s second-largest island, is a breathtaking destination with stunning natural beauty, captivating culture, and delicious cuisine. It’s a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone seeking an escape from the bustling city life. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic mountains, the shimmering waters, or the vibrant cities, Hokkaido has something for everyone.
Exploring Hokkaido’s Diverse Airports
Hokkaido boasts a network of 10 convenient airports that connect you to this incredible island. From bustling Sapporo to the tranquil shores of Shiretoko, each airport serves as a gateway to a unique experience.
New Chitose Airport (CTS): Your Hokkaido Hub
New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the main international gateway to Hokkaido, located in Chitose City. It’s a modern and well-equipped airport, offering seamless connections to various destinations within Hokkaido. You can easily reach Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu/Toya, and Niseko, all within a short distance from the airport.
Direct flights from major cities like Tokyo (Haneda/Narita), Osaka (Itami/Kansai/Kobe), and Nagoya (Chubu) arrive frequently, making it easy to plan your trip. The journey from these cities takes about 90 to 110 minutes. For travelers within Hokkaido, convenient flights to other airports within the prefecture take around 40 to 60 minutes.
CTS boasts excellent transportation links, including Japan Railways trains and buses, making it easy to explore the surrounding area. The airport is a great starting point for your Hokkaido adventure.
Hakodate Airport (HKD): Gateway to Southern Charms
Nestled in the picturesque Hakodate City, Hakodate Airport (HKD) is the gateway to the southern part of Hokkaido. Hakodate is a popular tourist destination, known for its captivating night views, delicious seafood, and unique blend of Japanese and Western architecture.
Direct flights from major cities like Tokyo (Haneda), Osaka (Itami), and Nagoya (Chubu) take about 90 to 100 minutes, while flights from Sapporo (New Chitose) take just 40 minutes. Hakodate Airport is connected to the city center by a convenient bus service.
Explore the historic Fort Goryokaku, stroll through the charming Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, and enjoy the stunning night views from Mount Hakodate. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the relaxing Yunokawa Onsen, where you can indulge in both delicious seafood and hot springs.
Asahikawa Airport (AKJ): Discover the Majestic Daisetsuzan National Park
Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is your portal to the heart of Hokkaido, situated in the city of Asahikawa. Surrounded by the breathtaking Daisetsuzan National Park, Asahikawa is Hokkaido’s second-largest city, offering easy access to the enchanting towns of Furano and Biei. These areas are famous for their colorful flower fields, particularly lavender, which bloom in a magnificent spectacle during summer.
Asahikawa Airport offers convenient bus services to the city center, Furano, and the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. The zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers, known for its unique and interactive exhibits.
Direct flights from Tokyo (Haneda) typically take about 95 minutes.
Kushiro Airport (KUH): Unveiling Nature’s Wonders
Located in Kushiro City, Kushiro Airport (KUH) serves as the gateway to the eastern part of Hokkaido. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Kushiro is home to two national parks, Kushiro Shitsugen and Akan-Mashu. These parks offer breathtaking landscapes, with diverse flora and fauna.
Kushiro is also a popular destination for those seeking respite from the summer heat. Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the Kushiro Shitsugen wetlands, or take a leisurely boat trip on pristine Lake Mashu and Lake Akan.
Kushiro Airport is connected to the city center by a convenient bus service. Enjoy a delicious seafood feast, particularly oysters, crabs, and fresh fish, which are renowned in this region.
Obihiro Airport (OBI): Immerse Yourself in Hokkaido’s Countryside
Obihiro Airport (OBI) is located in Obihiro City, known for its vast pastoral fields, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. This charming city is famous for its sweet treats, with many confectionery shops delighting visitors with their local specialties.
Obihiro Airport is linked to the city center by a convenient bus service. The “VISIT TOKACHI PASS” is a handy all-you-can-ride pass that allows travelers to explore the Tokachi area by bus. Indulge in the region’s local delicacies at farm restaurants, where you can savor fresh cheese, meat, and vegetables.
Memanbetsu Airport (MMB): Experience the Drift Ice Phenomenon
Memanbetsu Airport (MMB) serves as the gateway to the northeastern region of Hokkaido, close to Abashiri and Kitami cities. This area is known for its spectacular drift ice phenomenon, a unique natural wonder that occurs from late January to early March.
The airport is well-connected to surrounding areas by bus services, allowing you to easily explore Abashiri, Kitami, and the Shiretoko World Heritage Site. Witness the drift ice from the “Aurora” icebreaker ship, or embrace the thrill of an ice walk tour over the floating ice. The Shiretoko Goko Lakes, a collection of five pristine lakes nestled amidst ancient forests, is another must-visit destination.
Nakashibetsu Airport (NKB): Discovering Shiretoko’s Wildlife
Nakashibetsu Airport (NKB) is the easternmost airport in Japan, located near the beautiful Shiretoko Peninsula. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the Shiretoko World Heritage Site, where you can witness a diverse array of wildlife.
Enjoy whale watching, dolphin spotting, and brown bear sightings on a nature cruise ship. The nearby Nemuro, the easternmost tip of mainland Japan, offers excellent birdwatching opportunities at Lake Furen and the Shunkunitai dunes.
Rental cars are recommended for exploring Shiretoko and Nemuro, while a sightseeing bus service is available during winter months.
Monbetsu Airport (MBE): A Culinary Delight and Drift Ice Views
Monbetsu Airport (MBE) is the gateway to the Okhotsk coast, particularly known for its abundant marine products, especially scallops and crabs. Monbetsu is a foodie’s paradise, offering delicious seafood experiences.
A free shuttle bus service connects the airport to Monbetsu City. During winter, Monbetsu transforms into a drift ice wonderland, where you can witness the stunning phenomenon from the “Garinko-go” icebreaker ship or the Okhotsk Garinko Tower.
Rental cars are recommended for exploring the surrounding areas, and a sightseeing bus service to Shiretoko and Abashiri is available during winter.
Wakkanai Airport (WKJ): Explore the Northernmost Point of Japan
Wakkanai Airport (WKJ) is located in Wakkanai City, the northernmost city in Japan. It offers convenient access to Cape Soya, the northernmost point of Japan, where you can stand at the very top of the country.
The airport is connected to Wakkanai City by bus service. Rental cars are recommended for exploring the surrounding areas. Explore the nearby Rishiri and Rebun islands by ferry. Enjoy the stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk and the Sea of Japan from Cape Soya and Soya Hill.
Hokkaido: An Island of Unforgettable Experiences
Hokkaido is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, from stunning natural beauty to captivating culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hokkaido has something for everyone. With its convenient airport network and exceptional transportation options, exploring Hokkaido is easier than ever. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan’s northern frontier.
