Novel Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, Japan, has been recognized as one of the world’s top airports, ranking sixth in the 2026 World’s Cleanest Airports list. The ranking, based on a passenger survey evaluating waiting times, queuing systems, priority lanes, e-gate efficiency, and the quality of immigration staff, places it behind Tokyo Haneda, which topped the overall list, and Centrair Nagoya, likewise in Japan, and Bahrain International Airport.
The 2026 list is segmented into two categories: all airports and those handling up to 30 million passengers annually. New Chitose Airport serves the Sapporo metropolitan area and is the largest airport in Hokkaido by both traffic volume and physical size. It operates alongside Chitose Air Base, a Japan Air Self-Defense Force facility.
The airport provides a comprehensive suite of services for travelers, including VIP lounges, medical facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and readily available drinking water. Passengers also have access to luggage services, assistance for individuals with reduced mobility, and a dedicated Lost & Found department. New Chitose Airport is divided into two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2, which caters to international travelers.
Terminal 2, which opened in 2018, is noted for its distinctive architectural design, inspired by a swallow’s nest – a symbolic representation of the agarwood region. The airport is accessible from Sapporo Station via JR rapid trains, a journey of approximately 35 minutes, and is covered by both the Japan Rail Pass and the Hokkaido Rail Pass.
According to Hokkaido Airports Ltd., the operator of New Chitose Airport, AB Parking is currently offering a 500 yen discount coupon as part of a promotional offer. The airport also recently extended business hours for select stores between March 13th and March 16th, 2026.
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