Domestic air travel in Japan has become increasingly affordable in recent years. This shift is largely due to the rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) and exclusive fare programs offered to international travelers. Whether you're exploring Japan’s major cities or its remote islands, understanding the available discount options can help you save significantly on airfare.
This article introduces the most common ways to fly cheaply across Japan, including special fares from full-service airlines like ANA and JAL, as well as budget airlines that offer deeply discounted flights.
ANA’s Experience Japan Fare
All Nippon Airways, better known as ANA, has created a special ticket program called “Experience JAPAN Fare” aimed at foreign travelers and overseas residents who hold non-Japanese passports or permanent residency outside of Japan.
Designed for ease and affordability, this fare allows access to all ANA domestic routes at a fixed, tiered pricing system:
- ¥5,500: Short-haul routes such as Sapporo to Hakodate, or Tokyo to Akita
- ¥7,700: Popular city-to-city routes like Tokyo to Osaka
- ¥11,000: Longer-distance routes, including many cross-country connections
Eligibility requirements include:
- Non-residency in Japan
- A passport issued by a country other than Japan or proof of permanent residency outside Japan
- A valid international flight ticket to/from Japan (proof is required during booking)
Key restrictions:
- Must be booked online through ANA’s global website
- Must be purchased at least three days before departure
- No refunds or changes after purchase
- No child discount; infants under 3 without a seat fly free
- Limited to economy class (upgrades only available at the airport, space permitting)
JAL’s Japan Explorer Pass
The “Japan Explorer Pass” is Japan Airlines’ equivalent to ANA’s special fare, offering similarly attractive pricing for foreign visitors. Eligible travelers can book domestic flights on JAL, Japan Air Commuter (JAC), and J-Air, excluding flights operated by codeshare partners like Jetstar Japan or Fuji Dream Airlines.
Fares are divided into three tiers:
- ¥5,500: For regional routes, especially in Hokkaido and Tohoku
- ¥7,700: For mid-range flights like Tokyo to Osaka or Okinawa to nearby islands
- ¥11,000: For most other routes across the country
Eligibility requirements include:
- Residency outside Japan
- A passport issued by a foreign government, or a Japanese passport with foreign permanent residency
- Possession of a round-trip or multi-city international ticket to/from Japan (proof required)
Important details:
- Tickets must be purchased online at least 72 hours before departure
- No refunds or flight changes are permitted
- Economy class only; upgrades (Class J or First Class) can be purchased at the airport on a standby basis
- Each passenger may check two bags up to 23kg each
- Passengers must check in at the counter (self-check-in not available)
Budget Airlines in Japan
Japan has seen a surge in budget airlines, or low cost carriers (LCC) that compete directly with full-service carriers, making domestic flights much more affordable for all travelers, not just tourists. These LCCs usually operate out of secondary airports and offer lower fares in exchange for minimal services. Travelers should expect to pay extra for checked luggage, seat selection, and even onboard refreshments.
Peach Aviation (Japan's first true LCC)
- Main hubs: Osaka Kansai and Tokyo Narita
- Routes: Wide domestic network and select international routes
- Note: Extremely low base fares, but strict luggage policies and many extra fees
Jetstar Japan
- Main hubs: Tokyo Narita, Osaka Kansai, Nagoya Chubu
- Network: Largest domestic coverage among LCCs
- Note: Affordable fares but strict baggage rules; watch out for hidden charges
Spring Japan
- Routes: Primarily connects Narita Airport with Hiroshima and Sapporo
- Note: Smaller network but occasionally competitive fares
In addition to these LCCs, several “semi-budget” airlines offer a good compromise between cost and service quality. These carriers usually include free drinks and a more generous baggage allowance while keeping fares about 20% lower than those of ANA or JAL:
- Skymark Airlines: Extensive network from Tokyo Haneda and Kobe
- Air Do: Strong presence in Hokkaido, based at Tokyo Haneda and Sapporo
- Starflyer: Known for high-quality service and spacious seats from Kitakyushu and Fukuoka
- Solaseed Air: Specializes in routes between Tokyo and Kyushu/Okinawa
Additional Tips for Saving on Domestic Flights in Japan
- Book Early: Airlines often offer substantial discounts for bookings made at least a month in advance. Limited seats are available at these prices, so they can sell out quickly.
- Avoid Peak Seasons: Fares increase significantly during holidays such as New Year (late December–early January), Golden Week (late April–early May), and Obon (mid-August).
- Travel Midweek: Flying from Monday to Thursday can often save you 10–20% compared to weekend fares.
- Consider Off-Hour Flights: Early morning and late-night flights are typically cheaper.
- Check Round-trip Discounts: While not always the best deal, some airlines offer small savings for round-trip bookings.
Private Charters Across Japan
For those traveling with larger groups, it is likely a better option to hire a private charter than to take other forms of transportation when traveling around Japan.
At Snow Monkey resorts we are proud to offer private tours and transport across Central Japan. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
