Asahikawa Airport: Small But Modern

If you're flying to Hokkaido on an international flight, the terminal you'd most likely land at is New Chitose Airport. This is the most accessible airport, connecting most of the cities around Japan’s largest prefecture. I had been using New Chitose Airport for years after moving to Hokkaido from the Philippines in 2015. However, when I married my Japanese husband, I moved to a more remote area, closer to Asahikawa City.

The facade of Asahikawa Airport

One day, we had to drive my mother-in-law to Asahikawa Airport for her flight to Shimane Prefecture. This airport is the closest one to our town, and it was definitely my first time visiting this small airport. When we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean, modern, and beautiful it was. In fact, it felt more advanced, convenient, and peaceful than New Chitose Airport.

Food Court

The area is perfectly clean and sanitized. As you enter, you will see this information of a list of restaurants and the schedule of opening. Located at the second floor.

Waiting Areas

If you have to prepare for hours for your flight, you don't need to sit down on random floors of the airport. There is a proper area at the second floor suitable for both adults and children. There are several seats, USB ports and free wifi available for a good amount of people.

Waiting area for kids

On the left: If you have an emergency call or a private business call, you can use the telecube for free. On the right: There are also massage chairs available.

For emergency purposes, you can also have your smartphone charged at the waiting area. Instructions are available above the charging machine.

Pros:

• Accessible to nearby towns and cities
• Bus services available for passengers heading to Asahikawa Station
• Hotels accessible from Asahikawa Station
• Signs and information are available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese
• Various facilities for passengers to use while waiting
• Wifi accessibility
• Clean, delicious food served at the food court
• Most services are AI-driven
• Less crowded than larger airports

Cons:

• Limited flight schedules and airlines (Only JAL, ANA, Jetstar, and Air Do)
• Limited food options, especially for special dietary preferences (Halal, vegan, etc.)

Personally, I haven’t flown from Asahikawa Airport yet, but when I travel by air again in the future, I’d be happy to use it.

How to get there:

From Sapporo Station: Take the JR Line going to Asahikawa Station.

From Asahikawa Station: Take the limousine bus heading to Asahikawa Airport at the Asahikawa Station Bus Terminal.