population: 97,173 [April, 1 2024]
Chitose City (千歳市) is located south of Sapporo, about 35 minutes by train or 40 minutes by car. It is home to New Chitose Airport, the largest international airport in Hokkaido. Adjacent to it is Chitose Air Base, making it a shared airport for both civilian and military use, with air traffic managed by the Air Self-Defense Force. The city is situated between Eniwa to the north and Tomakomai to the south, extending east and west. Chitose serves as a gateway to Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which includes Lake Shikotsu and Mt. Tarumae. This park is one of Hokkaido’s most renowned, with Lake Shikotsu boasting some of the clearest water in the world. The Chitose River originates here and flows through the city. If you travel to Hokkaido by plane, you will likely visit Chitose at least once.
In recent years, the populations of Chitose and neighboring Eniwa have been increasing, and the cities are developing. A state-of-the-art semiconductor factory is being constructed in Chitose, aiming to start operations in 2027. There is high anticipation for further development in Chitose City.
Chitose experiences hot summers similar to Sapporo but tends to be colder in winter, despite being located further south.
Chitose City is home to Lake Shikotsu, from which the Chitose River flows through the city. Canoeing is popular on the Chitose River. Several adventure companies offer gentle canoe trips on the Bibi River downstream, suitable for beginners.
Places To Visit
- Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park — shop, museum, photo studio and cafe
- Kirin Beer Brewery Factory — factory tour
- Sapporo Beer Brewery Factory — factory tour
- Hokkaido Kikkoman — factory tour
- Calbee — factory tour
- Lake Shikotsuko
- Mt.Eniwa
- Chitose Aquarium — Salmon Museum
