18 Recommended Tourist Spots in Chitose City! A Comprehensive Guide to Suggested Itineraries, Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, and Winter Activities
What makes Chitose City such an attractive tourist destination?
Discover Nature, Fine Dining, and Winter Activities
Chitose City Tourism: From the breathtaking views of Lake Shikotsu...Jomon Historical Sites...and one of its biggest draws is that you can enjoy everything from great food to hot springs in the area around the airport!
In this column,From classics to hidden gemsHere’s a comprehensive guide to recommended spots, tourist attractions, local cuisine, winter activities, and suggested itineraries.
By the time you finish reading it,Perfect for youYou'll find sightseeing plans for Chitose here.
◆For those who want to make the most of their sightseeing before and after their stay at New Chitose Airport
◆For those who want to know everything from Chitose City’s must-see spots to its hidden gems
◆For those looking for sample itineraries for day trips or one-night stays
Click here for the rankings of popular tours in Hokkaido
Must-See Attractions in Chitose City
10 Recommended Spots
Chitose City offers everything from the great outdoors centered around Lake Shikotsu to the aquarium and shrines in the city centerAttractive Spotsare available.
Here.Classic AttractionsIn addition, we’ll introduce 10 natural attractions worth visiting if you’re willing to go a little out of your way.
If there's a place that catches your eye, be sure to check it out!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Lake Shikotsu tours▼
Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is,Japan's northernmost ice-free lakeIt’s the star attraction of Chitose tourism!
With a maximum depth of approximately 363 meters, the lake's crystal-clear waters shimmer blue in the sunlight. "Lake Shikotsu Blue" is a must-see.
You can enjoy canoeing, walks along the lake, and dining in the hot spring town—and it’s only about a 45-minute bus ride from Chitose Station—Easy to accessThat's another great thing about it.
◆Access: Approx. 50 min. by car from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Paid parking available (500 yen per day)
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Fun at Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Chitose Aquarium: The Home of Salmon
The Chitose Aquarium, "Home of the Salmon," is located next to the Salmon Park Chitose Roadside Station and features salmon and other marine life from Hokkaido,Freshwater Fish AquariumIt is.
The Flow of the Chitose RiverObservation from UnderwaterThere’s a window where, depending on the season, you might even see salmon swimming by!
Even on rainy daysSince it's such a fun experience, it's a good idea to include it in your itinerary.
◆Directions: About a 13-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Hours: Regular hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Winter hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
◆Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays, maintenance closures
*Please check the official website.
◆Admission: Adults 800 yen, High School Students 500 yen, Elementary and Middle School Students 300 yen, Infants and Toddlers Free
Roadside Station Salmon Park Chitose
Roadside Station Salmon Park Chitose is located right next to the aquarium, about a 5-minute drive from JR Chitose Station,About 13 minutes from New Chitose AirportIt's in a convenient location.
Since it offers a wide selection of local specialties and souvenirs,The End of the TripIt's perfect for shopping, too!
Business hours are generally from 9:00 a.m. to around 6:00 p.m., but they vary by store, so please check in advance.
◆Directions: About a 13-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center
The Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center is a nature education facility administered by the Ministry of the Environment, located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu, andTourist Information CenterIt also serves as...
."To the Forest, to the Mountains, to the LakeUnder the theme of "", the exhibition uses videos and models to provide an easy-to-understand introduction to the formation of Lake Shikotsu and the wildlife in the surrounding area.
Features include an aquarium showcasing the Japanese char found in the lake and a section where you can listen to the songs of wild birds, among other things,While having funThe educational exhibits are a real highlight!
◆Directions: About a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Paid parking available (500 yen per day)
◆Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (April–November), 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (December–March)
◆Closed: Tuesdays from December through March, and during the year-end and New Year holidays
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Fun at Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Chitose Shrine
Chitose Shrine is located in downtown Chitose,To the local communityThis is a shrine that has long been beloved by the community.
If you pay your respects in the quiet temple grounds,Wishing for a Safe TripIt's a great place to spend some time. It's an easy spot to stop by while sightseeing in the city center!
◆Directions: About a 12-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Misue Falls
Mibue Falls is located in the Mibue area of Lake Shikotsu,A Waterfall Surrounded by GreeneryIt is.
If you listen closely to the sound of water in the forest, you’ll find that everyday life...My fatigue just melts awayIt's really soothing.
Road and trail conditions can change quickly, so please check whether they are passable before you set out!
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: No restrooms, etc.
Furesai Park of Famous Springs
Meisui Fureai Park is designated by the Ministry of the Environment as “100 Famous SpringsThis park was developed in honor of the Naibetsu River spring, which was selected as a "[...]".
Located near the confluence with the Chitose River, as you walk along the promenade by the Uchibetsu River,The Atmosphere of a Clear StreamYou can enjoy the
At the water collection point, Chitose City’s water, which comes from a famous spring,Delicious Tap WaterYou can draw water from it!
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: Restroom available
New Chitose Motorland
New Chitose Motorland is located along National Route 36, southeast of New Chitose Airport, and offers authentic motorsports...Try It Out EasilyIt's a facility that can do that.
Rental karts on the 500-meter track require no license or special equipment, andEmpty-handedThe best part is that it's fun!
◆Directions: About a 15-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Business Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (until 9:00 p.m. during the summer)
◆Regular Closing Days: Generally none *May vary depending on the course*
◆Prices: Go-kart course (5 laps) starting at 2,500 yen
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, established in Taisho 4, is situated on the northern shore of Lake Shikotsu.A Historic InnIt is.
A natural open-air hot spring (natural wild hot spring) where the depth changes with the water level of the lake and the water bubbles up right at your feet is,At One with the LakeThe sense of freedom it gives you is what makes it so appealing!
Please check the official website in advance for information on day-use baths, operating days, and fees.
◆Access: Approx. 50 min. by car from New Chitose Airport
Fun at Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Hokkaido Hakone Ranch
Hokkaido Hakone Ranch is,About 30 Tokyo DomesSet on this vast property, it is a hands-on farm where visitors can enjoy dairy farming activities and interact with animals.
In addition to a milking experience where you can feel the warmth of the cows, you can also make fresh caramel, cheese, and sausages using the farm’s fresh ingredients,Craft Workshopsis well-developed.
You can also feed the goats and rabbits, so,With childrenI'd recommend it to your family, too!
◆Directions: About a 30-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Shortened hours from early November through mid-April
◆Closed: Tuesdays
◆Experience Fees: Milking Experience—1,000 yen; Caramel-Making Experience—1,800 yen, etc.
◆Facilities: Restroom available
5 Hidden Gems for Sightseeing in Chitose
After visiting the must-see spots, be sure to check out some hidden gems where you can enjoy a quiet moment. From history and nature to hot springs,Unique to ChitoseYou'll discover its unexpected charm.
To avoid the crowdsWe also recommend it for those who want to take it easy!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Lake Shikotsu tours▼
Mountain Line Railway Bridge
It's a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot you can casually stop by while sightseeing around Lake Shikotsu.
The scenery created by the old iron bridge and the clear waters of the Chitose River is,For photography enthusiastsWe recommend it for this, too!
As I reflect on history,A Leisurely StrollWhy not give it a try?
◆Directions: About a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Use the parking lot at the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center (500 yen per day)
◆Facilities: Restrooms are available at the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center
Fun at Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Kius Embankment Tomb Complex
The Kiusu Embankment Tomb Complex dates from the late Jomon period,About 3,200 years agoIt is a massive tomb built in [location], and is one of the component sites of the World Heritage Site “Jomon Archaeological Sites of Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku.”
Located along National Route 337, the No. 2 embankment tomb—one of the largest of its kind—is an impressive sight, measuring approximately 73 meters in diameter.Mortar-shaped terrainIt is.
About a 10-minute drive fromChitose City Center for Buried Cultural Properties(Admission is free), so be sure to check out the artifacts on display—you'll enjoy the experience even more!
◆Directions: About a 15-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: Restrooms are available at the Guidance Center for the Kiusu Embankment Tombs Historic Site.
Lake Okotanpe
Lake Okotanpe is, “Hokkaido's Three Great Hidden Lakes"It is a lake that lies quietly at the western foot of Mount Eniwa, considered one of the [...].
Although you can't go down to the lakeshore, from the observation deck along Prefectural Road 78,cobalt blueYou can gaze out at the lake, whose surface shifts in color from blue to emerald green.
Since the roads are closed during the winter,Late November through late AprilLet's avoid going there.
◆Directions: About a 55-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Parking spaces available
◆Facilities: No restrooms, etc.
Shikotsu Lake Wild Bird Forest
Shikotsu Lake Wild Bird Forest stretches along the foothills of Mount Kimunmorappu, just south of the Shikotsu Lake Hot Springs area, and is enveloped in the chirping of wild birds.A Quiet ForestIt is.
Great Tits, Blue Magpies, Yellow-browed Warblers, Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers, and others,Each seasonOne of the highlights is the chance to see a variety of wild birds in Hokkaido!
especiallyThe Season of Fresh GreeneryThis is the perfect season for forest bathing. Why not take a leisurely detour here along with visiting the classic spots around Lake Shikotsu?
◆Directions: About a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Use the free parking lot at Kyukamura Lake Shikotsu
◆Facilities: There are restrooms at Kyukamura Lake Shikotsu
Fun at Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tours ▼
New Chitose Airport Hot Springs
The New Chitose Airport Hot Spring is located inside the New Chitose Airport terminal building,Before and After Your FlightIt's a hot spring facility you can stop by.
To relieve the fatigue from traveling, orWaiting timeIt’s a hidden gem unique to airport sightseeing, where you can make the most of your time!
Prices and business hours are subject to change, so please check the official information before visiting.
◆Directions: 4th Floor, Domestic Terminal Building, New Chitose Airport
◆ Parking: Free parking available for stays of less than 3 hours
◆Facilities: Restroom available
3 Must-Visit Gourmet Spots in Chitose City
The City of Chitose,The Area Around New Chitose AirportThis area is home to a variety of gourmet foods and sweets unique to Hokkaido.
From snacks you can easily enjoy at the airport, toFactory TourWe offer a wide variety of items, including those for enjoying...
Go on a culinary adventure and see if you can find your new favorite!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Lake Shikotsu tours▼
Hokkaido Ramen Dojo
Hokkaido Ramen Dojo is located inside the New Chitose Airport terminal building and features ramen from all over Hokkaido.A gathering of popular ramen restaurantsThis is the food court.
Unique flavors that vary from store to storeTaste TestThat's what makes it so appealing!
The participating stores may change, so be sure to check in advance.
◆Directions: 3rd Floor, Domestic Terminal Building, New Chitose Airport
◆ Parking: Free parking available for stays of less than 3 hours
◆Business Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
*May vary by store
◆Closed: None
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Loyds Chocolate World
Loyds Chocolate World is located inside New Chitose Airport,A First for a Domestic AirportIt's a chocolate factory and museum.
You can enjoy shopping while watching the chocolate-making process!
A Classic Hokkaido SouvenirIt’s also a great place to stop by at the end of your trip.
◆Directions: New Chitose Airport International Terminal Building, 3rd Floor
◆ Parking: Free parking available for stays of less than 3 hours
◆Business Hours
・Shop and Museum: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
・Factory (Factory Tour): 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
◆Closed: None
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Kirin Beer Hokkaido Chitose Plant
The Kirin Beer Hokkaido Chitose Plant is located in Kamichoto, Chitose City, about a 10-minute walk from JR Choto Station.
You can tour the manufacturing processFactory TourThere is a fee, and reservations must be made through the official website.
After the tour, there will be a tasting, and,slotted dome cast iron grill for preparing this dishI highly recommend it because you can also enjoy a beer restaurant where you can savor the flavors!
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Reception Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
◆Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
◆Facilities: Restroom available
Winter Activities in Chitose City
In winter, Chitose City is blanketed in snow and ice, with Lake Shikotsu at its center.A Special SeasonIt is.
Events, hot springs, drives through snowy landscapes, and more,Ways to Enjoy WinterThere are plenty of them!
Winter Weather Preparation and Driving on Snowy RoadsBe sure to come prepared before heading out.
Lake Shikotsu Ice Wave Festival
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Sculpture Festival, which began in 1979, features a display of ice sculptures created by spraying water from Lake Shikotsu and letting it freeze.A Winter TraditionIt is!
During the day, it glows with the blue of Lake Shikotsu, and at night,(architectural) floodlighting...and its expression changes to a dreamlike one.
Since the event dates and admission fees vary from year to year, please check the official website forCheck the latest informationLet's do it.
◆Location: Shikotsuko Onsen, Chitose City, Hokkaido
◆Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
◆Lighting: 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
◆Admission Fee
・Weekdays: 1,000 yen for middle school students and older (free for elementary school students and younger)
・Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 3,000 yen for middle school students and older (free for elementary school students and younger)
How to Enjoy Winter Hot Springs and Snowy Scenery
In winter, the best thing to do in the Lake Shikotsu Hot Springs area is to warm up in the hot springs while taking in the snow-covered scenery.ExceptionalIt is!
If it's before or after a flight,New Chitose Airport Hot SpringsIt's also convenient to just pop in there.
Since the roads tend to freeze, when renting a car,Winter TiresChoose a vehicle that’s equipped with the necessary features, and make sure to allow plenty of time.
Recommended Itineraries for Sightseeing in Chitose
Chitose is a great destination for sightseeing because it’s easily accessible from the airport, so even if you have limited time,EfficientlyThe appeal is that you can explore it.
Here are two sample itineraries: a day trip and a one-night, two-day trip.
Depending on your schedule and preferences,Please doGive it a try!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Lake Shikotsu tours▼
Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
You can easily explore it even after you arrive at the airport,The Classic Day Trip ItineraryLet me introduce it to you!
⇩
Roadside Station Salmon Park Chitose
⇩
Chitose Aquarium: The Home of Salmon
⇩
Lunch
⇩
To Lake Shikotsu
Taking a stroll along the lakeLake Shikotsu BlueEnjoy [...].
⇩
To the Airport
Dinner at Ramen Dojo, shopping for souvenirs at Lloyd's
Sample 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary
From New Chitose Airportrent-a-carAnd off we go
⇩
To Roadside Station Salmon Park Chitose and the Chitose Aquarium: Home of the Salmon
⇩
Lunch
⇩
To Lake Shikotsu
Stop by the Mountain Line Railway Bridge and the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center, take a stroll along the lakeshore, and enjoy the beauty of "Shikotsu Blue"
⇩
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan'sRelax in an open-air bath
◆Day 2
Forest Bathing at Lake Shikotsu Wild Bird Forest
⇩
To the Kiushu Embankment Tombs and Chitose Shrine
⇩
To the Airport
Dinner at Ramen Dojo, shopping for souvenirs at Lloyd's
Finally, if you enjoy some great food and shopping around the airport,Enjoy All That Chitose Has to OfferSure thing!
About Souvenirs from Hokkaido
▼Click here for more details▼
Things to Enjoy Along with Sightseeing in Chitose City
Recommended Activities
Lake Shikotsu, which boasts some of the clearest water in Japan, is the highlight of tourism in Chitose.
From Above the LakeIf you go SUPing or kayaking to enjoy the scenery, you’ll experience the unique “Lake Shikotsu Blue”—a whole different experience from just strolling along the lakeshore!
Both offer many guided tours, andFor beginners and those coming empty-handedYou can participate with confidence.
Click here for the rankings of popular tours in Hokkaido
SUP
SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is an activity in which you use a paddle to move across the water while standing or sitting on a board.
Across the crystal-clear surface of Lake ShikotsuThe exhilarating feeling of gliding alongOnce you try it, you'll be hooked!
On the tour, you’ll first receive a lecture on paddling techniques and safety precautions on land, soEven if you're a first-timer,That's reassuring.
▼Click here for recommended SUP tours▼
About the Lake Shikotsu SUP Tour
Learn More
Kayak
Since kayaking involves paddling while seated,Reliable even for first-timersThese are fun activities.
At Lake Shikotsu, the "Clear Kayak"The tour is very popular, and one of its main attractions is that you can even see the underwater scenery!"
In addition to the lake, there is also a course that takes you as far as the headwaters of the Chitose River, and the natural scenery viewed from the lake isExceptionalIt is.
▼Click here for recommended kayak tours▼
About the Lake Shikotsu Kayak Tour
Learn More
About Tourism in Chitose City
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, you can enjoy it even as a day trip. The classic itinerary is to stop by Roadside Station Salmon Park Chitose or the Chitose Aquarium—both located near New Chitose Airport—and then head to Lake Shikotsu after lunch.
If you want to take your time exploring the hot springs at Lake Shikotsu and the Kiusu Embankment Tomb Complex, I recommend a two-day, one-night trip.
Since there are many attractions—such as Mibue Falls and Lake Okotanpe—that are difficult to reach by public transportation, we recommend renting a car at New Chitose Airport.
If you're only visiting Lake Shikotsu, you can also take a local bus from Chitose Station—the ride takes about 45 minutes.
Since roads tend to freeze easily, be sure to choose a rental car equipped with winter tires and allow plenty of time for your travels.
Please avoid Lake Okotanpe, as the road is closed from late November through late April. In winter, you can enjoy snowy and icy scenery at events such as the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.
summary
Chitose City offers everything from the breathtaking views of Lake Shikotsu to Jomon-period historical sites and the culinary delights around the airport—all in a single trip.A Wide Range of AttractionsIt's a tourist spot where you can enjoy [...].
Combine popular spots with hidden gems to create a plan tailored to the season and your preferencesArrangementGive it a try!
Latest Business StatusPlease check official sources for road closures before you leave.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.
