Things To Do
in Chitose

Chitose is a vibrant city located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its proximity to New Chitose Airport and beautiful natural landscapes. The city serves as a gateway to various outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking, while also offering cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine. With its blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese charm, Chitose attracts both tourists and locals alike.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of nearby mountains and lakes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chitose Outlet Mall Rera for shopping and breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Head to Lake Shikotsu, where you can take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) in Chitose and enjoy a relaxed evening sampling various dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the historical Chitose City Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at Noboribetsu Onsen, a nearby hot spring resort, for relaxation and rejuvenation.

evening
:

Return to Chitose and enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant to experience the freshest seafood.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
Coffee$4
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🏨Hotel Night$80
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Affordable prices compared to larger Japanese cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation may require some planning.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some travelers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Chitose

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Shikotsu

Renowned for its stunning blue waters and surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking views throughout the year.

Chitose Outlet Mall Rera

A modern shopping destination with striking architecture, perfect for capturing urban scenes and shopping moments.

Shikotsu-Toya National Park

A national park with diverse landscapes, including volcanic mountains, lakes, and hot springs, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chitose

Chitose offers a delightful array of local dishes and culinary experiences that reflect the rich flavors of Hokkaido.

Chitose Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hokkaido Ramen

A rich and hearty noodle soup, often featuring miso broth and topped with fresh vegetables and meats.

Must-Try!

Sapporo Beer

A refreshing and crisp lager that originated from Sapporo, perfect for pairing with local dishes.

Seafood Donburi

A rice bowl topped with an assortment of fresh seafood, including salmon, crab, and sea urchin.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chitose Food Market

A local market where you can sample fresh seafood, vegetables, and various street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chitose experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Winters (December to February) can be harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, along with heavy snowfall. Summers (June to August) are pleasantly warm, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional, featuring mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet with a bow and use polite language when interacting with locals, as respect is highly valued.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to say 'Itadakimasu' before meals and 'Gochisosama deshita' after finishing to show appreciation.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional accommodations or temples to maintain cleanliness.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chitose is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded places and keep personal belongings secure. Additionally, be cautious during winter conditions due to slippery sidewalks.

Tipping in Chitose

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are often included; however, exceptional service can be acknowledged with gratitude.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for hiking and exploring lakes, with vibrant green landscapes and various outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, especially around the lakes, providing picturesque views for photography.

Winter

Winter transforms Chitose into a snowy wonderland, attracting ski enthusiasts and snow lovers to nearby resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Chitose at Night

Chitose has a lively nightlife scene, featuring izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with locals often enjoying after-work gatherings. While larger cities like Sapporo may offer more variety, Chitose provides a cozy and enjoyable experience for those looking to unwind in a local setting.

Hiking in Chitose

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shikotsu Mountain Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of Lake Shikotsu and the surrounding mountains, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Toya Volcanic Trail

This challenging trail provides hikers with the opportunity to explore volcanic landscapes and enjoy panoramic views of the area.

Airports

How to reach Chitose by plane.

New Chitose Airport

Located just 5 km from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point to Hokkaido.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chitose is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some attractions may require a short drive or public transport due to their distance from the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Chitose attracts many families, especially during holidays and festivals, due to its family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities.

Tourists

The city sees a steady influx of tourists, particularly during the winter ski season and summer hiking months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Skiing is a popular winter sport in the region, with many resorts offering excellent slopes and facilities.

Baseball

Baseball is widely enjoyed, with local teams and community games drawing enthusiastic crowds during the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chitose is generally light, especially compared to major urban centers. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is efficient and connects well with surrounding areas. Taxis are available but may be more expensive; renting a bike is an option for shorter distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chitose.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes contain meat, there are vegetarian options available, especially in restaurants that focus on local produce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited; however, rice-based dishes and certain seafood options are safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Chitose is good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119. Most medical facilities are equipped to handle basic health issues, but for specialized care, larger cities like Sapporo may be required.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide