AIRPORT TRANSFERS

There are plenty of transport options. It takes 2-3 hours to get from the Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Hirafu. Transport in Japan is clean and efficient. You will want some flexibility in transport departure times in case your flight arrives late (which can happen if there is heavy snowfall).

Notwithstanding the availability of options, we highly recommend that you book in advance, especially for the private transport options. You will need to provide the Suiboku Concierge with your flight/arrival details at least 14 days prior to your arrival to allow us to book onward transportation to Niseko-Hirafu and so that we can meet you when you arrive in Hirafu.

The available modes of transport are:

Cool Star Limousine (pricey, private, comfortable)

The rates for a 6 person Limousine Van are:

• December to February
  One-way transfer - 57,000 yen
  Return transfer - 104,000 yen
• March
  One-way transfer - 52,000 yen
  Return transfer - 94,000 yen
  
• April
  One-way transfer - 68,000 yen
  Return transfer - 125,000 yen
  

Private Transfers (moderately expensive, comfortable, your group only)

• 2 person private transfer – 30,000 yen
• 7 person private transfer – 38,000 yen
• 12 person private transfer – 45,000 yen
• 12-25 person transfer – 55,000 yen

Big Runs Bus Service (inexpensive and comfortable)

Big Runs has several busses running daily throughout the winter season. With dedicated staff and a transfer desk conveniently located at the domestic tour counter near the JAL arrival gate A in New Chitose Airport, simply make your way to the counter and sign in. Transfer by coach to Niseko is easy and hassle free!

• 3000 yen per person one way
• 6000 yen per person return

New Chitose Airport to Hirafu

Hirafu to New Chitose Airport

Rental Car (not advisable in heavy snow conditions)

Car Rental in Japan requires an International Driver’s Permit (for Australians, please see here for more information. For guests from Hong Kong, go here and scroll down to section 4.9. For guests from Singapore, please go here). Driving in Japan (on the left side of the road) is a pleasure in good weather conditions, but in the winter during heavy snowfall it is inadvisable except for the most seasoned of winter-condition drivers. There is a Toyota Rental Desk at the Airport, in front of Arrival gate B on the 1st floor. The rental depot (parking lot for car pick-up) is fifteen minutes away by a free shuttle bus provided by Toyota. The Suiboku Concierge can assist you in making car rental arrangements, or you can do it yourself. The Toyota Rental home page or their page for on-line bookings. There is ample outside parking at Suiboku.

Rental prices listed include tax, insurance, and GPS charge. All prices are listed in Japanese Yen.

Car rental

For a full list of available vehicles and prices go here

Train (inexpensive, comfortable, one-change required)

The train is another very economical and comfortable option for traveling from the Airport to Hirafu. The trains leave from the downstairs station in the airport regularly. You will buy your ticket for the destination of “Kutchan” station and will change trains once (very short wait) in the town of Otaru. In Otaru you will need to carry your bags a short distance through an underground walkway to the platform for the train to Kutchan. The total scenic journey takes approximately three hours. The train timetable is set out below as well as train charges. When you get to Kutchan we will meet you at the station and take you up to Suiboku.

Download the Train Timetable [.pdf]

Concierge Tip: Tickets for the Semi-Rapid trains from New Chitose Airport to Otaru are the same price as the Local trains, but make far fewer stops. The Rapid trains cost a little bit more, but are faster. Reserving a seat is recommended, as the trains are often standing room only between the airport and Sapporo.