Which is more convenient for getting from Sapporo city to New Chitose Airport: the JR Rapid Airport or the airport shuttle bus? Bus fares between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport will change in December 2023, and in March 2024, JR's timetable will be revised, resulting in changes to the number of trains and the stations they stop at. We compared the travel time and fare from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport to see which option is more cost-effective.

Rapid Airport trains will change from March 16, 2024

JR Rapid Airport

First, let's look at how access to New Chitose Airport by train will change from March 16, 2024. Until now, the "Rapid Airport" train running between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport has operated approximately every 12 minutes during the day, with five trains per hour. The journey between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport takes approximately 39 minutes, and the fare is 1,150 yen.

After the timetable revision on March 16, 2024, the number of Rapid Airport trains will be increased to six trains per hour. The fare will remain the same. However, the breakdown of the six trains is as follows:

・3 trains = Rapid (same trains as before) ・1 train = Special rapid train (train with few stops along the way) ・2 trains = Rapid service (Rapid service only between Sapporo and Kitahiroshima, then stops at every station to New Chitose Airport)

So, although the number of trains per hour will increase, there will be fewer rapid trains, and more limited rapid trains, which stop at more stations and take a little longer.

Hourly operation pattern (JR Hokkaido announcement, excerpt from 2024 timetable revision materials)

The limited express train will replace the local train that runs between Kitahiroshima and Chitose during the day, in order to increase access to the airport. The limited express train will also stop at Shimamatsu, Megumino, Sapporo Beer Garden, and Osato, which were previously served by the limited express train, so the travel time from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport will be slightly longer.

Airport shuttle bus fares have increased, but there are still some convenient aspects

There is an airport shuttle bus stop in front of Sapporo Station.

Meanwhile, airport shuttle buses to New Chitose Airport depart from various locations around the city, including Sapporo Station. Many of these buses stop in places far from JR and subway stations, making them a welcome option for those who live far from the station but have a bus stop nearby for the airport.

Timetable and fare display at the bus stop in front of Sapporo Station

Bus fares will increase in December 2023, to 1,300 yen from Sapporo Station and Susukino, 1,200 yen from Oyachi, and 1,400 yen to Maruyama Park and Makomanai, while the train fare from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport is 1,150 yen (as of December 2023). Buses used to be cheaper than trains, but fares have increased year by year, and buses are now more expensive when simply comparing fares.

JR fare table from Sapporo (displayed above the ticket vending machine at Sapporo Station)

The advantage of the bus is that it can be used not only from in front of Sapporo Station, but also from various locations in Sapporo, such as major hotels in the city center and subway stations. Depending on where you board, the bus may be more cost-effective and time-saving, and if the station is far away and the bus stop for the airport is close, the bus is definitely the only option.

Finally, we've compared travel times and fares for several subway stations in Sapporo where the airport shuttle bus departs and arrives. Use the table below to decide which is more convenient and economical: train or bus.

I made a comparison of train and bus fares and times (times may vary slightly)

Train or bus: From Sapporo Station to New Chitose Airport

Trains are more economical in terms of both time and fare! Trains run six times per hour during the day, while buses run roughly four times per hour during the day, so trains are more convenient in terms of frequency as well. However, some trains have long seats (seats with your back to the window), and you may be mixed with commuters and students at stations along the way, making it difficult to find a seat or where to put your large bag. In that respect, buses may be easier than trains, as you can travel comfortably in reclining seats. If you don't mind the cost, using the paid U-seats on the train is the best option!

If you want to sit comfortably on the train, we recommend the U-seat. It costs an additional 840 yen on top of your ticket.

Train or bus: From Susukino to New Chitose Airport

If you're going from Susukino to New Chitose Airport, and time is a priority, it's best to take the subway and transfer to the train at Sapporo. The fare difference is only 60 yen, but the bus is slightly cheaper and you can get there without having to transfer, so it's hard to pass up the idea. If you have time, take the bus!

Train or bus: If you are going to New Chitose Airport from Oyachi, Fukuzumi, or Aso

If you're heading to New Chitose Airport from Oyachi, Fukuzumi, or Aso, it might be more economical to take the bus than the train. Both are located close to the expressway, so once you've boarded the bus, you can head straight to Chitose! Trains and subways run more frequently, but when you consider the time, fare, and hassle of transferring, buses seem to be more cost-effective and convenient.

Train or bus: If you are going to New Chitose Airport from Makomanai or Maruyama Park

In the case of Makomanai, there is not much difference between trains and buses when comparing time and fares. If you consider frequency, you should go for the train, but if you want a comfortable seat without having to transfer, you should go for the bus. In the case of Maruyama Park, the bus ride takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, so even though you have to transfer, the train is the safest option as it is cheaper in terms of time and fare. However, just like Makomanai, if you prioritize not having to transfer and being able to sit comfortably, the bus is also an option!

Would you choose the train or the bus?

If you're going from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport, the decision of whether to take the train or the bus can be a tough one. It all depends on where you get on and off, how much time you have, whether you're comfortable sitting or prepared to stand, and your budget, even if it's just a small price to pay.

*All information posted is current as of December 2023. *All published information may be subject to change, so please check the official website for details.