Eastar Jet Doubles Down on Sapporo Seoul Route for...

Quick Summary

Route Frequency Upgrade: Eastar Jet increases its Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) to Seoul Incheon (ICN) route from three to four daily round trips during peak winter travel.

Operation Period: The additional seasonal flights operate from December 25, 2026, until February 9, 2027, on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

Flight Details: Newly added flights ZE627 (inbound) and ZE628 (outbound) are operated using the narrow-body Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

Traveler Impact: Increased capacity supports South Korean winter sports tourists heading to Hokkaido's ski resorts.

Eastar Jet will expand its flight schedule between Sapporo New Chitose and Seoul Incheon to up to four daily round trips starting December 25, 2026. The additional seasonal flights, operated by the Boeing 737-8 aircraft, will run through February 9, 2027, to accommodate peak winter travel.

Regional Aviation Corridor: The Sapporo–Seoul Winter Connection

Regional flight connectivity between Japan and South Korea remains a primary driver of tourism in northern Japan. The seasonal route expansion announced by Eastar Jet targets Hokkaido's peak winter snow season, a period when international arrivals spike due to skiing and winter festivals. The temporary increase from three to four daily round trips provides passengers with daytime travel options, reducing scheduling constraints during high-demand months.

By utilizing New Chitose Airport (CTS/RJCC) as a primary gateway, the airline reinforces the airport's capacity to handle international traffic. Rather than routing passengers through major metropolitan hubs like Tokyo or Osaka, the direct flights connect Hokkaido's snow resorts directly with South Korea's main international gateway at Seoul Incheon (ICN/RKSI). This direct corridor saves travel time for independent holidaymakers and tour groups alike.

Seasonal Flight Timetable and Operations

The additional seasonal service, designated as flights ZE627 and ZE628, will operate three days a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. These daytime flights offer travelers convenient transit options that align with standard hotel check-in and checkout windows. The operations will be conducted using the narrow-body Boeing 737-8 passenger jet, a model commonly selected for short-haul international routes.

The detailed schedule for the newly added flights is outlined below:

Flight Number	Route Segment	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Operating Days	Primary Aircraft
ZE627	Seoul Incheon (ICN) to Sapporo New Chitose (CTS)	10:25 AM	12:55 PM	Mon, Tue, Fri	Boeing 737-8
ZE628	Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) to Seoul Incheon (ICN)	1:55 PM	5:10 PM	Mon, Tue, Fri	Boeing 737-8

Cultural and Environmental Integration: Sustainable Winter Travel

The winter route expansion is expected to generate significant tourist traffic, highlighting the need for sustainable travel habits. The Hokkaido Tourism Organization actively promotes eco-friendly outdoor recreation, urging visitors to stick to designated ski runs and preserve the delicate alpine environment.

To support local economies, travelers are encouraged to explore outside the major resort complexes. Booking stays at traditional family-owned ryokans (guesthouses), hiring local ski guides, and dining at independent regional restaurants ensure that tourism spending directly supports Hokkaido's resident communities. This practice fosters a balanced tourism economy, helping preserve regional heritage and seasonal crafts for future travel generations.

Visitor Insider Tips for Hokkaido and Seoul

To navigate these popular destinations smoothly and ensure an authentic travel experience, keep these practical tips in mind:

Identify Off-Peak Visit Windows: In Hokkaido, the peak winter period centers around the Sapporo Snow Festival in early February. To experience excellent snow conditions with fewer crowds, book travel in early January or mid-February after the festival concludes. In Seoul, the dry, crisp winter months of December and January feature beautiful holiday light festivals.
Observe Regional Etiquette: In Hokkaido's communal onsen (hot springs), wash thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the bathwater, and do not let your modesty towel touch the water. In South Korea, use both hands when paying for items or receiving change as a sign of respect.
Savor Local Dining Specialties: In Sapporo, try the warming Soup Curry, a spiced broth filled with roasted vegetables and tender chicken, or sample fresh Genghis Khan (grilled mutton barbecue). In Seoul, try seolleongtang (ox bone soup) or grab sweet hotteok (stuffed pancakes) at local markets.
Explore Under-the-Radar Heritage Sites: In Sapporo, take an evening walk up Mount Moiwa to see the city lights instead of visiting crowded observation decks. In Seoul, wander through the historic alleys of Ikseon-dong to see renovated traditional hanok houses.

Economic and Tourism Industry Outlook

The transition of the Sapporo–Seoul route to up to four daily flights highlights the strength of the regional travel corridor. South Korea remains one of Hokkaido's most important inbound tourism markets, and the additional capacity directly benefits the local hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors.

In the long run, the continued investment in regional flight connectivity supports New Chitose Airport's role as a vital global gateway. By providing travelers with flexible schedules and direct trans-regional options, low-cost carriers like Eastar Jet are driving tourism growth while supporting the economic stability of regional destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Eastar Jet's increased Sapporo-Seoul schedule operate? The additional seasonal flights are scheduled to run from December 25, 2026, until February 9, 2027, matching peak winter demand.

How many flights will Eastar Jet operate on the route after the increase? The airline will increase its schedule from three to up to four daily round trips on select operating days.

Which days of the week will the additional seasonal flights run? The newly added flights, ZE627 and ZE628, will operate three times weekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

Which aircraft model is used for the seasonal Sapporo-Seoul flights? Eastar Jet operates the additional seasonal flights using the narrow-body Boeing 737-8 passenger jet.

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Disclaimer: Flight schedules, route frequencies, and departure timings are subject to change based on weather conditions and airline operational requirements. Verify all flight listings and transit conditions directly with Eastar Jet before booking.