ROUTE PLANNING · NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT

New Chitose Airport to Furano and Biei in Winter

Driving straight from the airport can look efficient, but winter arrival days are different from ordinary sightseeing days. Flight delays, early darkness, snow and unfamiliar roads can turn a simple transfer into the hardest drive of your trip.

Do not treat the arrival day like a normal driving day

After an international or long domestic journey, allow time for immigration or baggage, rental-car procedures, food and weather checks. If your flight arrives late, consider staying near New Chitose Airport or Sapporo rather than forcing a long winter drive.

Furano and Biei are not the same destination

They are often grouped together in itineraries, but Biei is farther north. If you plan to visit both, include sightseeing stops, parking and winter delays instead of relying only on a map-app driving estimate.

Who should consider a rental car?

A car can be useful for flexible rural sightseeing, but it is a better fit for travelers who already have meaningful snow-and-ice driving experience and can change plans when conditions deteriorate. First-time snow drivers should seriously compare rail, bus, transfer and overnight options.

Before leaving the airport

• Check current Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts and warnings.
• Check official road restrictions and closures.
• Confirm winter tires and vehicle features with the rental company.
• Set a realistic cut-off time: if the flight or rental process runs late, use your backup plan.
• Avoid building an itinerary that requires you to reach Furano or Biei regardless of conditions.

Public transport is your backup, not a failure

Rail, bus and transfer options can remove the pressure of an unfamiliar winter drive. Timetables and seasonal services change, so confirm current schedules with the operators before travel.

Official sources

• HOKKAIDO LOVE! — Getting Around Hokkaido
• Hokkaido Government — Driving on Winter Roads
• Japan Meteorological Agency — Warnings / Advisories
• Furano Tourism Association — Access