Quick Guide: Getting to Niseko
Best Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS), Sapporo
Distance to Niseko: 110 km (2 hrs by car / 2.5–3 hrs by bus)
Direct Flights From: Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Taipei, Sydney (Dec–Mar), Tokyo
Transport Options: Shuttle Bus, Train, Private Transfer, Rental Car, Taxi
Cheapest Option: Chuo Bus – ¥5,000 / Samurai Snow – ¥6,000
Best for Groups: Private transfer – from ¥55,000
Booking Tip: Reserve transfers weeks in advance
Flying to Niseko: New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Here’s the good news: everyone flies into New Chitose Airport. There is no airport in Niseko or Sapporo City itself—CTS is the closest and most convenient, handling 20+ million passengers annually with modern facilities, great food, shopping, and even Japan’s first airport onsen.
Why New Chitose Airport is the Best Choice
- Only 110 km from the Niseko ski resort
- 24-hour operations with English-friendly services
- Direct flights from major Asian hubs
- Seasonal direct flights from Sydney (Qantas, Dec–Mar)
- Frequent connections from Tokyo every 15–30 minutes
Tip: If you can’t get a direct flight, connect through Tokyo, Singapore, or Bangkok.
How to Get from New Chitose Airport to Niseko
Once you land, you have four main ways to reach Niseko: shuttle bus, private transfer, rental car, or train.
1. Airport Shuttle Bus (Most Popular & Affordable)
The airport bus is the most commonly used option, especially for skiers and snowboarders with luggage.
Popular services include:
- Chuo Bus – ~¥5,000
- Samurai Snow – ~¥6,000
- Hokkaido Resort Liner
- White Liner
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours
Why choose the bus?
- Direct transfer into the resort
- Designed for winter travellers with ski equipment
- Budget-friendly
- Restroom and snack stops along the way
Important: Book at least a few weeks in advance—buses sell out fast during peak season.
2. Private Transfers (Best for Families & Groups)
For convenience and comfort, private door-to-door transfers are the top choice.
Recommended providers:
- Sky Express
- SkyBus
- Niseko SkyTaxi
Price: From ¥55,000 per vehicle
Travel time: 2–2.5 hours
Benefits:
- Professional winter drivers
- Direct to your accommodation
- Luggage support
- Option for grocery stops before arrival
For groups, this can be extremely cost-effective.
3. Rental Cars (Flexible, but Weather Dependent)
Renting a car is great if you want freedom to explore, but winter driving in Hokkaido can be challenging.
Travel time: ~2 hours
What you need to know:
- You MUST have an international driving permit
- Cars usually include winter tyres & 4WD
- Expect icy roads, blizzards, and occasional road closures
Driving Tip: If you’re unsure about winter driving, take a bus or private transfer instead.
Driving Directions via Kutchan
If you’re coming from Sapporo:
- Follow Route 230 over the Nakayama Pass
- Continue through Kimobetsu Town
- Drive toward Kutchan, then follow signs to Annupuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu, or Hanazono depending on where you stay
4. Taking the Train to Niseko (Scenic but Slower)
The train is scenic and enjoyable, but not ideal for travellers with heavy luggage.
Route:
- Take the JR Chitose Line to Otaru
- Transfer to the JR Hakodate Line toward Niseko/Kutchan
Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Best for: Travellers without lots of ski gear or those staying near Kutchan Station.
Getting Around Niseko United (Shuttle Bus)
Once in Niseko, the free ski shuttle buses make it easy to move between the four resort areas:
- Hirafu
- Niseko Village
- Annupuri
- Hanazono
Buses run every 20–30 minutes throughout the day.
If you have an All-Mountain Pass, the shuttle is free.
FAQs About Travelling to Niseko
What’s the cheapest way from New Chitose Airport to Niseko?
The Chuo Bus (¥5,000) is the least expensive option.
Do I need to speak Japanese to navigate transport?
No. Major transport services provide English signage and staff.
How far is Niseko from the airport?
110 km — about 2 hours by car or 2.5–3 hours by bus.
Can you take the train to Niseko?
Yes. It takes 2.5–3.5 hours depending on connections.
What’s the easiest way to travel with ski equipment?
Take a shuttle bus or private transfer. Or rent equipment in Niseko for convenience.
How much is a taxi from New Chitose to Niseko?
Around ¥30,000–¥40,000.
Start Your Adventure with Niseko Supreme
Once you arrive, let Niseko Supreme take your holiday to the next level. Our expert instructors, personalised lessons, and friendly team ensure you make the most of Niseko’s world-famous powder.
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