From New Chitose/Sapporo
New Chitose Airport → Niseko by bus
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Exit to the bus stop
Domestic Terminal, 1F, bus stop 8. Signage is in English and Japanese.
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Board the Chuo Bus “Niseko Liner”
Payment methods vary by operator. Please check with the operator before traveling.
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Get off at your hotel’s stop
The bus stops at all major hotels and lodges across the four Niseko villages.
Ski Bus timetable (Chuo Bus)
Reservation required. 2026–27 season reservations open around October; the timetable below shows the previous season (13 Dec 2025 – 22 Mar 2026) for reference and will be updated once the new schedule is published.
Round trip fare
One-way fare
Reservation required. Book on the Chuo Bus website in advance — seats fill up quickly in peak season (late December to early January).
Other operating companies
The White Liner
The Hokkaido Resort Liner
Please contact each bus company directly for reservation details, service periods and times. Additional stops beyond those listed may be available — please confirm with the operator.
Before you travel
Winter notice: heavy snow may delay or cancel buses between December and March. Check live status before departure and allow extra buffer time.
Common questions
Do I need to book the airport bus in advance?
Yes, seats are limited in winter. Book at least 3 days ahead on the operator’s English-language site.
Can I pay by credit card?
Payment methods vary by operator. Please check with the operator before traveling.
Is luggage forwarding available?
Yes, via Yamato Transport counters at the airport. Luggage typically arrives at your accommodation the next day.
Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car?
Yes, alongside your home country license. Winter tires are mandatory and included in the rental.
If I fly internationally into Tokyo, how do I connect to New Chitose?
You’ll need to connect to a domestic flight from Narita or Haneda to New Chitose.
What is the easiest way to get from New Chitose Airport to Niseko?
The easiest way is the direct ski bus, which runs from New Chitose Airport (CTS) to Niseko during the winter season (mid-December to late March). Buses depart from the domestic terminal and stop at Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Village and Grand Hirafu, so there are no transfers. The fare is ¥6,000 one way per adult, and advance booking is required. Outside the ski season, the train via Otaru and Kutchan or a rental car are the main alternatives.
How long does it take to get from New Chitose Airport to Niseko?
It takes about 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on how you travel. A private transfer or rental car takes around 2 to 2.5 hours (allow extra time on snowy winter roads), the direct ski bus takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, and the train plus local bus takes about 3 to 4 hours, including connections at Otaru and Kutchan. If you are flying in from Tokyo (Narita or Haneda), add about 1 hour 35 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes for the domestic flight to New Chitose.
What is the best way to get to Niseko with ski or snowboard luggage?
Check your airline’s baggage allowance in advance when travelling with ski or snowboard equipment.
