-New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the nearest airport access to what is possibly the snowiest place in the world.

From many origins, you will be connecting through one of two Tokyo airports.

If your travel itinerary specifies a change of airport in Tokyo (for example, between Haneda HND and Narita NRT), you’ll want to allow plenty of extra time for the layover to go through customs, catch the mostly-easy-to-access airport limousine to the other airport, check in and do security, etc. Just a pro tip- we suggest at least 4 hours for this transition.

Try to book your ticket all the way through to CTS airport to avoid any luggage fees for your gear. If you do small local fights within Japan, it’s easy to ship your gear on the reliable Black Cat delivery service. Just let us know if you need help.

Trips between Hokkaido and other parts of Japan are cheap, and you can ship your ski gear on Black Cat with a 3-day window.

Train: There is a Japan Rail Pass that is only available if purchased from your home country BEFORE traveling to Japan. Look into it if you want to check out more of Japan by train! Note, bikes are not allowed on trains, but it is easy to rent bikes in most places! The train is a great way to travel. However, plane rides are still cheap to Hokkaido and other parts of Japan.

We can help you plan your trip. Since we are a local guide service, not a travel agency, we can provide you with unbiased travel advice and the best solutions that correspond with your goals. We are not monetarily compensated by any specific establishments.