Drive Furano – Arrival and Driving Guide

From New Chitose Airport to Furano or Sapporo

Welcome to Hokkaido! Your Drive Furano-Hokkaido-Car Rental vehicle will be waiting for you when you arrive at New Chitose Airport (CTS), ready for your winter adventure.

1. Collecting Your Vehicle

Before you arrive, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing:

  • The exact car park location (usually Day Car Park A or B between the international and Domestic Terminals).

  • A photo of your vehicle and number plate for easy identification (depending on group requirements we may meet and greet).

  • A Google Maps link to the car’s location (pin drop).

When you arrive:

  1. Collect your luggage and walk to the day car park or we can meet you in the arrival lounge.

  2. Find your vehicle using the photo and number plate.

  3. The car will be unlocked, with the keys waiting inside or someone may meet you to show you to your vehicle.

  4. Load your bags and you’re ready to go.

  5. If you can’t locate the vehicle, call or message the support number included in your confirmation email.

2. Navigation and Departure from the Airport

All vehicles include English-language GPS for easy navigation or apple car play.

When leaving the car park, follow signs for the Dōtō Expressway (E38) toward Obihiro / Furano.
If you plan to visit Sapporo first, follow Route 36 west and use the E5 Dōō Expressway, as outlined later.

Please note that toll payments on expressways will have to be paid for with cash, please see estimated toll costs below.

3. Primary Route: New Chitose Airport → Furano via E38 (Shimukappu Route)

This is the most direct and often the safest route to Furano, particularly in winter.

Route overview:

  1. From the airport, follow signs for the E38 Dōtō Expressway toward Obihiro / Furano.

  2. Enter the expressway at Chitose IC.

  3. Continue east on E38, passing through the Yubari-Tokachi Expressway section.

  4. Exit at Shimukappu IC.

  5. From Shimukappu, take Route 237 north toward Minamifurano, then continue through to Furano.

Approximate distance: 130 km
Estimated driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes (in good winter conditions)
Toll cost: About ¥2,500

Why we recommend this route:

  • It avoids heavy Sapporo traffic.

  • Roads are well maintained and monitored for winter conditions.

  • Scenic mountain drive with snow-cleared tunnels and service areas along the way.

4. Alternative Route (if visiting Sapporo first)

If you plan to visit Sapporo before Furano:

  1. From the airport, follow Route 36 west toward Sapporo (about 1 hour, 45 km).

  2. From Sapporo, join the E5 Dōō Expressway toward Iwamizawa, then follow Route 452 and Route 135 to reach Furano.

  3. This route is longer (around 180 km, 3 hours) but convenient if you’re staying in Sapporo overnight.

5. Winter Driving in Hokkaido

All Drive Furano vehicles are fitted with high-quality studless snow tyres for winter conditions.
However, please drive carefully — roads can be icy or snow-covered, especially in mountain passes.

Winter driving tips:

  • Accelerate and brake smoothly — sudden movements can cause loss of traction.

  • Keep headlights on at all times.

  • Allow extra space between vehicles.

  • Watch for black ice in shaded areas and early mornings.

  • Use the shovel and traction aids provided if your car becomes stuck.

  • Refuel before reaching Furano; some regional fuel stations close early.

6. Emergency and Assistance

  • Rental Assistance Line: (number in your booking email, 24-hour support)

  • Police / Accident Emergency: 110

  • Roadside Assistance (JAF): 0570-00-8139 or #8139 from mobile phones

  • Fuel or Battery Emergency: contact rental assistance before calling JAF for advice.

7. On Arrival in Furano

Once you arrive in Furano, park safely at your accommodation and enjoy your stay.
If you’re new to snow driving, take your time — the roads are well maintained, and Hokkaido’s scenery makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination.