Drive Furano – Return Trip Guide

Returning Your Vehicle to New Chitose Airport

We hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Furano and exploring Hokkaido’s winter beauty.
Before setting off, please allow plenty of time for your journey back to New Chitose Airport.
In winter, road and weather conditions can vary, so plan for at least 5 hours total (including driving, fuel stops, and check-in).

1. Preparing for Departure

Before you leave Furano:

  • Refuel the car (see suggested stations below).

  • Remove all personal belongings and rubbish.

  • Confirm your flight time and ensure you allow adequate travel time.

  • Check the latest road and weather conditions.

Option 1 – Direct Route (Recommended)

Furano → Shimukappu → Chitose (via Route 38 and E38)

This is the most direct, efficient, and winter-reliable route back to New Chitose Airport.

Route overview:

  1. Depart Furano heading east on Route 38.

  2. Follow Route 38 through Ochiai and continue toward Shimukappu.

  3. Join the Dōtō Expressway (E38) at Shimukappu Interchange (IC).

  4. Continue west on the expressway following signs for Chitose / Obihiro Junction.

  5. Exit at Chitose IC, then follow signs for New Chitose Airport.

  6. Park in the Day Car Park A or B or as specified in your return instructions.

Distance: approximately 125 km
Estimated driving time: 2 hrs 15 min (in normal conditions)
Toll cost: around ¥2,500

Why we recommend this route:

  • The fastest and most direct option.

  • Well maintained with snow-cleared tunnels and rest areas.

  • Avoids urban traffic and provides a scenic mountain drive.

Option 2 – Return via Sapporo (E5 Dōō Expressway)

Furano → Iwamizawa → Sapporo → Chitose

If you’re visiting or staying in Sapporo before your flight, this route is ideal.

Route overview:

  1. Depart Furano on Route 38 toward Iwamizawa.

  2. Join the E5 Dōō Expressway toward Sapporo / Chitose.

  3. Continue south past Sapporo following signs to New Chitose Airport.

  4. Exit at Chitose IC, then follow airport signage to Day Car Park A or B or your allocated return location.

Distance: approximately 180 km
Estimated driving time: 3 hours
Toll cost: around ¥3,000

Why take this route:

  • Convenient if you plan to stop in Sapporo for the day or overnight.

  • Good service areas and rest facilities along the way.

2. Refuelling Before Return

Please refuel before returning your car. Convenient options include:

  • ENEOS Furano (Route 38) – central and easy access.

  • Idemitsu Chitose Airport SS – 10 minutes before the airport; ideal for a final refill or ENEOS right next to the airport.

Keep the fuel receipt in the vehicle if possible (optional).

3. Returning the Vehicle

On arrival at New Chitose Airport:

  1. Follow signs to the Day Car Park A or B or the specified return location.

  2. Park in a clearly marked bay.

  3. Usually there will be someone there to meet you.

  4. If required send a quick photo and message to confirm the drop-off (including number plate and location).

Our team will either meet you to collect the vehicle when you arrive.

4. Travel Timing and Winter Conditions

Plan to leave Furano at least 5 hours before your flight:

  • 2–3 hours driving

  • 30 minutes for rest or fuel stops

  • 1½ hours for check-in and security

If heavy snow or poor visibility is forecast, allow additional time and drive slowly.

5. Assistance and Emergencies

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

  • Police / Accident Emergency: 110

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

6. Thank You

Thank you for choosing Drive Furano–Hokkaido–Car Rental.
We hope your self-drive experience in Hokkaido was safe, comfortable, and memorable.
If you enjoyed your trip, please share your experience or tag us on social media — we love seeing our guests’ adventures on the road!