Asahikawa Airport Transfer: Getting to Daisetsuzan & Biei

Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is the second-largest airport in Hokkaido and the most convenient entry point for central Hokkaido's most celebrated destinations — Biei's rolling patchwork hills, Furano's lavender fields, and the vast wilderness of Daisetsuzan National Park.

For visitors flying from Tokyo or Osaka, Asahikawa is often a better choice than New Chitose if your primary destinations are in central Hokkaido. This guide explains your transport options from the airport and helps you decide which is right for your trip.

About Asahikawa Airport

Asahikawa Airport is located approximately 13 km east of Asahikawa city centre. It is a small but modern airport with domestic connections to Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), Osaka (Itami and Kansai), Nagoya, and Sapporo. Seasonal charter flights from Taiwan and South Korea also operate during peak periods.

The airport has a tourist information desk, a small shopping area featuring Hokkaido food products, and basic dining options. It is not designed for long stays, but the arrivals process is quick and straightforward.

Transport Options from Asahikawa Airport

Bus services to Biei and Furano require a transfer at Asahikawa Station. Journey times and costs are approximate.

Airport Bus to Asahikawa City

The Asahikawa Airport Limousine Bus runs between the airport and Asahikawa Station, with stops at major hotels. The fare is ¥620 (approximately $4) and the journey takes around 35 minutes. Buses depart approximately every 30–60 minutes, timed to coincide with flight arrivals.

If your destination is Asahikawa city, the bus is a practical and affordable option. However, for Biei, Furano, or Daisetsuzan, you will need to connect to another bus or train at Asahikawa Station — adding significant time and complexity to your journey.

Asahikawa's famous Snow Festival — one of Hokkaido's top winter events

Private Transfer: The Best Option for Biei & Furano

For visitors whose primary destinations are Biei, Furano, or Daisetsuzan, a private car hire from Asahikawa Airport is by far the most practical option. There is no direct public transport from the airport to these areas, and the combination of airport bus + train or bus involves multiple transfers and significant waiting time.

A private transfer can take you directly from the arrivals hall to your hotel in Biei or Furano, with the option to make scenic stops along the way — such as the Blue Pond (Shirogane Aoi Ike) or the Patchwork Road viewpoints. Your driver will assist with luggage and can provide local recommendations.

Why Asahikawa Airport is Underused by International Visitors

Central Hokkaido's dramatic winter landscapes are best accessed via Asahikawa

Most international visitors to Hokkaido fly into New Chitose Airport near Sapporo, even when their primary destinations are in central Hokkaido. This is partly habit and partly because New Chitose has more international connections — but it often means a 2–3 hour journey to Biei or Furano after landing.

Flying into Asahikawa instead (via a domestic connection from Tokyo or Osaka) puts you just 30 minutes from Biei and 50 minutes from Furano. For a 5–7 day trip focused on central Hokkaido, this routing can save several hours of travel time and significantly reduce the complexity of getting around.