When we think about exploring Japan quickly and economically, Japanese airlines emerge as excellent options, especially for domestic routes. The great advantage is the variety of companies that offer cheap domestic flights, allowing easy travel from the far north in Hokkaido to the subtropical warmth of Okinawa without having to compromise much on the budget.
In this practical guide, you will learn about all the major airlines in Japan that operate domestic routes, with a special highlight on those that are most affordable and popular among travelers looking to save time and money during their stay in the country.
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Peach Aviation: the favorite of backpackers
If there is a favorite Japanese airline among young travelers and backpackers, it is certainly Peach Aviation. Known for its incredibly low fares, often comparable to those of night buses, Peach connects major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Fukuoka, and Okinawa.
In addition to low prices, Peach stands out for its simplicity during the booking process and transparency in fees. However, keep in mind that, like any low-cost airline, the basic fare generally includes only carry-on baggage. It's worth planning well what to take in your suitcase to save even more.
Jetstar Japan: cheap flights with international standards
Jetstar Japan, the Japanese version of the famous Australian company Jetstar, is another great choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing convenience. It operates exclusively within the country, with popular routes such as Tokyo to Osaka, Sapporo, or Fukuoka, all frequently on sale.
A major advantage of Jetstar is its clear policy on fares and additional services. This means you only pay exactly for what you need, allowing you to easily adjust your trip to your budget. It is a good option, especially for foreigners who are already familiar with the low-cost style.
Skymark Airlines: affordable comfort on domestic flights
Not all low-cost airlines need to be too basic, and Skymark Airlines is a great example of this. Despite competitive prices, it offers a bit more comfort compared to other low-cost carriers, with more spacious seats and additional services included in the base price, depending on the fare chosen.
Skymark primarily connects major urban and tourist centers, such as Tokyo, Kobe, Fukuoka, and Sapporo, and is highly sought after by both local travelers and foreign tourists looking for a more enjoyable experience without needing to spend much.
Solaseed Air: the regional charm with friendly prices
Less known internationally, but extremely popular among Japanese people, Solaseed Air is a company that connects especially the southern region of Japan, focusing on routes between Kyushu and other regions such as Tokyo and Okinawa.
In addition to competitive fares, flying with Solaseed is a charm on its own: their planes have bright colors and friendly services, creating a unique experience. It's ideal for those who want to experience a more regional and intimate atmosphere on their domestic routes.
Air Do: connecting northern Japan at low prices
Air Do is the preferred airline for those looking to explore the northern region of Japan, especially Hokkaido. It often offers promotions that make it possible to explore more distant destinations like Sapporo, Hakodate, or Asahikawa on a limited budget.
With a proposal that mixes practicality and economy, Air Do also stands out for its friendly service and small details, such as regional drinks available for free during flights. It's a unique experience, especially if you want to learn more about northern Japanese culture.
Spring Airlines Japan: economy with an international touch
Spring Airlines Japan, linked to its Chinese parent company, gained traction with extremely low fares connecting mainly Narita Airport to cities like Sapporo and Hiroshima. Despite its local focus, it offers a cosmopolitan feel thanks to Chinese influence. A great choice if you want to take advantage of reduced prices without sacrificing a good experience.
Amakusa Airlines: a unique local experience
Have you ever imagined flying on small planes, like ATR, connecting smaller cities in Japan? That's exactly what Amakusa Airlines offers. With very specific routes, such as Amakusa-Kumamoto-Fukuoka, this airline is ideal for those who want to explore the less touristy side of Japan, taking advantage of competitive fares on truly local flights.
ANA Wings: the regional reliability of ANA
ANA Wings is a subsidiary of the well-known All Nippon Airways (ANA) and exclusively operates domestic regional routes. Its differentiator is offering a comfortable experience, similar to that of the main company, but on shorter routes, especially connecting small cities to the major hubs of Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. An excellent choice for those who value a bit more comfort on short flights.
Fuji Dream Airlines: flying in style through the regions
Primarily based in Shizuoka and Nagoya, Fuji Dream Airlines is known for the vibrant colors of its planes, which are already an attraction in their own right. Operating affordable regional routes, this company connects smaller cities, offering a convenient and economical alternative for those looking to explore regions less visited by international tourists.
Hokkaido Air System: exploring the deep north
Part of the JAL group, Hokkaido Air System focuses exclusively on routes within the island of Hokkaido. Its smaller planes facilitate quick and comfortable travel between remote destinations, making it a perfect option for those planning a detailed trip to the extreme north of Japan, especially in areas that are not easily accessible by land.
Ibex Airlines: quick and cheap connection on regional jets
Ibex Airlines, headquartered in Sendai and Nagoya, offers an excellent combination of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Its regional jets connect major cities like Sendai, Tokyo-Narita, and Osaka with competitive fares. This may be the ideal choice for those who need to travel quickly between regions without compromising their budget.
Japan Air Commuter: short flights to small islands
Part of the JAL group, Japan Air Commuter (JAC) stands out for operating short and specific domestic routes, especially to smaller islands of Japan, such as those in the Ryukyu archipelago. If you dream of exploring these more remote and paradisiacal locations easily, you will surely want to learn about the routes and attractive prices of this airline.
