Book domestic flights in Japan with Alternative Airlines. Whether you're travelling between Tokyo and Osaka or exploring islands like Kyushu and Okinawa, domestic air travel is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get around.
Use our site to compare airlines, check routes and book cheap flights across Japan, with flexible ways to pay.
A domestic flight in Japan refers to any flight that starts and ends within the country. These are often short-haul journeys, with flight times under two hours, such as from Tokyo to Osaka or Fukuoka.
While Japanese citizens don’t need a passport for these routes, foreign travellers will need to carry valid ID like a passport or driver’s licence.
Japan stretches across four main islands and countless smaller ones. While the Shinkansen (bullet train) is a popular option, it can be expensive and time-consuming for longer routes. Domestic flights are often faster and cheaper.
For example, Tokyo to Nagasaki takes eight hours by train and can cost over $230 USD, but a flight takes just two hours and can cost less!
As one of the country’s two flag carriers, JAL operates an extensive domestic network. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Sapporo with more remote parts of the country.
Find out about checked baggage, check-in and more on our Japan Airlines page.
ANA is the other major full-service carrier in Japan, flying between large urban hubs and smaller regional airports. It offers frequent daily services on busy domestic routes.
Learn more about baggage, check-in and other services on our ANA page.
A popular low-cost carrier, Jetstar Japan offers affordable fares and a wide range of domestic routes. It's a good option for travellers on a budget.
Visit our Jetstar Japan page for baggage and check-in details.
Japan’s regional and low-cost airlines offer a reliable and often more budget-friendly way to travel across the country. If you're looking to explore more of Japan with local carriers, here's who you can fly with:
Known as Japan’s first real budget airline, Peach connects cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka. It’s especially popular among domestic travellers looking for competitive pricing. Check baggage rules and check-in guidance on our Peach Aviation page.
Based in Tokyo and Kobe, Skymark blends affordability with reliable service. It serves many popular destinations including Sapporo and Fukuoka. Read about check-in and baggage policy on our Skymark page.
A hybrid airline offering premium service at competitive prices. StarFlyer operates a limited domestic network, mainly between Tokyo and Fukuoka. Find flight details, check-in and baggage info on our StarFlyer page.
Air Do focuses on routes between Tokyo and Hokkaido, making it a strong choice for those heading to Japan’s northernmost island. Learn more on our Air Do page.
Based in Kyushu, Solaseed connects cities in southern Japan to Tokyo. It’s a regional airline that provides good service and value. See baggage and check-in tips on our Solaseed Air page.
A JAL Group airline operating primarily in Okinawa and surrounding islands. It's a key player in southern domestic travel. Visit our JTA page to learn more.
Serving the Okinawa archipelago, RAC is ideal for short hops between islands. It's a niche airline catering to local and regional travel. See flight info on our Ryukyu Air Commuter page.
A regional branch of JAL, J-Air links smaller airports with Japan’s main transport hubs. It operates mainly short domestic routes. For more on routes and policies, visit our J-Air page.
This small airline operates niche domestic routes from Tokyo’s Chofu Airport to remote islands like Niijima and Myakejima. Learn more on our New Central Airservice page.
With a limited route map, New Japan Aviation connects Niigata and Sado Island. It also offers flight training and charter services. See our New Japan Aviation page for details.
If you're planning to take a domestic flight in Japan, a few small adjustments can make a big difference. Here are our top tips to make your journey smoother and more affordable:
Following these tips can help you avoid unnecessary stress and get the best value for your domestic flights across Japan.
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Whether you're heading from Tokyo to Sapporo or hopping between islands in Okinawa, booking your domestic flight through Alternative Airlines means more choice, better payment flexibility, and an easier booking experience from start to finish.
Japanese citizens do not need a passport to travel domestically. However, if you're a foreign traveller, you’ll need to present valid identification - this includes a passport, residence card or a government-issued photo ID like a driving licence.
No. Domestic flights within Japan don’t require you to go through customs or immigration. You will still need to pass through airport security screening, but you can proceed directly to the boarding gate and, upon arrival, head straight to baggage claim.
Most airlines in Japan offer online check-in, usually available from 24 to 48 hours before departure. Airport check-in counters typically close 20 to 40 minutes before take-off. It’s best to arrive at least 90 minutes early to allow time for security and potential queues, especially at busy airports.
Yes, but allowances vary. Major airlines like ANA and JAL usually include 20kg of checked baggage in Economy fares. Budget airlines may only include carry-on, with checked luggage costing extra. Always check the specific airline’s baggage policy before you fly.
Yes. Jetstar Japan and Peach Aviation are two of the most popular low-cost carriers. They offer cheap domestic fares and cover many of the country’s busiest routes. You can often find lower prices if you book well in advance or travel mid-week.
Fares vary depending on the route and time of year.
Booking in advance usually guarantees better prices.
For longer distances, flying is often cheaper and faster than taking the Shinkansen. For example, Tokyo to Fukuoka by train takes over five hours and can cost ¥23,000+, while a flight may only take two hours and cost less, especially with a low-cost airline.
Yes. With Alternative Airlines, you can book domestic flights in Japan from anywhere in the world. Choose from hundreds of routes and pay using over 40 global payment options, including Buy Now Pay Later services.
Yes. Major airports like Tokyo Haneda, Narita, Osaka Kansai and Fukuoka have English signage and English-speaking staff. You may find limited English at smaller regional airports, but essential travel information is usually accessible.
