Getting To Niseko

Handling over 80% of international arrivals, Tokyo City is the main point of entry for travellers continuing on to Niseko. There are two Tokyo airports - Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). 

From Tokyo, you will take a connecting flight to Hokkaido (Japan’s northernmost island province, home to Niseko). Arrival in Haneda is the most efficient way to connect to Hokkaido. Narita sometimes offers lower fares, but in exchange for longer transfers and limited options for late night arrivals.

Haneda is the most central of Tokyo’s airports, located just 30 minutes (train ride) from downtown. It is open 24 hours a day, but domestic connections typically end by early-mid evening. If your flight arrives after 20:00-21:00 it’s best to stay overnight near the airport. 

You may decide to venture into the capital for a day or two of sightseeing, but if you want to catch the next available flight to Hokkaido after landing mid evening, there are several comfortable hotels directly connected to the airport terminals.

Located further east of Tokyo City (60-90 minutes train ride), Narita remains a hub for international flights. If you land after 19:30, you’ll need to stay overnight near Narita for the next available flight to Hokkaido the next day. The First Cabin Capsule Hotel, located inside Terminal 1, is a convenient option for a short layover.

Once you’ve entered Japan via either Tokyo Haneda/Narita, your next flight will be to New Chitose Airport (CTS). CTS sits just outside of Hokkaido’s capital, Sapporo City.

Multiple national airlines offer direct flights from Tokyo to New Chitose Airport. Some of these include (and in order of general cost, high to low) Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airlines (ANA), Air Do, Skymark, Peach Aviation and Jetstar Japan. 

The connecting flight totals around 1h30m. Depending on airline and advance booking, a return trip costs around ¥28,000 – ¥62,000. Whilst there are dozens of domestic flights per day, ensure to book early, as fares rise sharply towards departure (especially during weekends and holidays periods).

While most travellers connect through Tokyo, New Chitose Airport (CTS) also receives direct international flights, particularly during the winter season. These routes are ideal for visitors from nearby Asian hubs, and from December 2025, Qantas will launch a seasonal direct service from Sydney for Australian travellers looking to skip the Tokyo transfer.

There are a variety of ways to travel to Niseko once landing in New Chitose Airport. If applicable, before organising transfers yourself, make sure to enquire with your hotel Concierge team about their various transfer options (Niseko Central, Ki Niseko or Skye Niseko).

The most efficient way to reach Niseko is via a transfer with SkyExpress, the resort’s first and most experienced transport provider.

Private and group vehicles are available for up to 35 passengers, offering door-to-door transfers to/from New Chitose Airport, Sapporo City hotels and Niseko. SkyExpress is ideal for families or groups who are looking for a comfortable and direct option, particularly if you have a lot of luggage/sports gear.

From December to the end of March, Resort Liner operates a regular coach service linking the New Chitose Airport, Sapporo City area and Niseko. There are convenient drop-offs at Niseko hotels and the Hirafu Welcome Centre. 

Be sure to book in advance as spots book out quickly in peak season.

Travelling by train from New Chitose Airport is the most affordable option but requires a few transfers. 

The station is located directly beneath the terminal - purchase a JR ticket (cash only) to Kutchan, the closest town to Niseko Hirafu. Cash can be withdrawn from airport ATMs above the station (use an international card and decline conversion for better rates).

The journey takes around 3.5 hours with a transfer at Otaru Station - simply board the train waiting on the opposite platform at Otaru. From Kutchan Station, local winter buses (searchable via Google or Apple Maps) connect directly to the resort and accept contactless payment.

The last train to Kutchan departs around 17:30. Allow an hour after landing to collect luggage and buy tickets. If arriving later, stay overnight at the Air Terminal Hotel or nearby New Chitose/Sapporo accommodations before continuing the next morning.

The Yamato courier is a popular Japan-wide luggage delivery service. Delivery time and cost varies by distance, and can be near same-day delivery from New Chitose Airport.

You’ve made it! Whether you’re carving Japow or swapping skis for mountain bikes, we hope this guide helps you plan a smooth journey to Niseko.