Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, is set to make travel to Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, more convenient and affordable with the launch of its newest route: Manila to Sapporo.
Filipino travelers who have already visited Japan's most popular cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, can look forward to something new in 2025, as Cebu Pacific starts its Manila to Sapporo route. Pictured here is the famous Sapporo TV Tower in Odori Park. IMAGE by Daigaku2051
Starting January 16, 2025, CEB will operate the only direct flights between these two cities, offering Filipino travelers a unique gateway to Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscapes and cultural treasures with the airline's signature low fares.
Connecting Manila to the City of Snow
Flights to Sapporo will run three times weekly—every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday—cutting travel time to just around five hours. This is a significant improvement over current options, which often require layovers and take up to 10 hours from Manila.
“We are thrilled to be the only carrier to offer non-stop flights between Manila and Sapporo,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer. “The launch of this route is a testament to Cebu Pacific’s mission of expanding its international network and making air travel accessible to a wider range of passengers. We are excited to offer more Filipinos the opportunity to experience the winter charm of Sapporo.”
A Winter Wonderland Awaits
Sapporo, renowned as Japan’s “City of Snow,” offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all ages. Winter sports enthusiasts can head to Teine Ski Resort for skiing and snowboarding, while families will enjoy sledding and snowman-building at Takino Suzuran Hillside Park.
For those seeking relaxation, the Jozankei Onsen offers rejuvenating hot springs surrounded by stunning natural views. Meanwhile, the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February, showcases intricately carved snow and ice sculptures surrounded by dazzling lights.
Beyond winter activities, Sapporo is a culinary paradise. Visitors can savor local specialties such as miso ramen, soup curry, fresh seafood, and Hokkaido’s signature dairy products and sweet corn. For beer lovers, the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the city’s brewing heritage.
Japan remains among the top international destinations for Filipino travelers. In 2023 alone, over 500,000 Filipino tourists visited Japan, a number that continues to grow as travel restrictions ease and air connectivity improves. For travelers who may already have toured Japan’s most famous big cities, Sapporo, with its unique charm, offers a fresh perspective that blends traditional culture with breathtaking natural beauty.
CEB operates in 35 domestic and 27 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of other add-ons. CEB also offers other payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets. For more information, visit cebupacificair.com
