Question 1

What is the "New Chitose Airport Unofficial Taxi Overcharge" scam in Sapporo?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed or unmetered taxi drivers solicit passengers in the arrivals hall and ground floor exits of New Chitose Airport, offering fixed-price rides into Sapporo city. The quoted flat rate is typically two to three times the metered fare and is non-negotiable once luggage is loaded. Some drivers claim the meter is broken or that a flat rate is mandatory for airport journeys, which is false. Official taxis use a meter and queue at the designated taxi rank outside the arrivals exit. Use only taxis from the official metered taxi rank on the ground floor outside the arrivals exit at New Chitose Airport. Alternatively, take the JR Airport Express train to Sapporo Station, which is faster and cheaper for most hotel locations. Decline all approaches from drivers inside the terminal.

Question 2

What is the "Taxi Route Detours" scam in Sapporo?

Accepted Answer

Some Sapporo taxi drivers take tourists on longer-than-necessary routes, particularly from New Chitose Airport into the city. The extra distance significantly inflates the metered fare and tourists have no way of knowing the efficient route. Check the route from the airport to your hotel on Google Maps before getting in. Share your screen with the driver if needed. Use Hokkaido Chuo Bus or JR trains from the airport as they are fixed-price and significantly cheaper than taxis.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Sapporo

New Chitose Airport Unofficial Taxi Overcharge

Taxi Route Detours

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