Japan’s tourism industry is buzzing, with a projected 60 million people estimated to have visited the country by 2030, and Japan Airlines (JAL) is turning heads with a unique offer: free domestic flights for international travelers.
At first glance, this seems like a dream deal for anyone planning to visit Japan. However, as with most enticing offers, there’s a catch. This promotion is part of an effort to boost travel to lesser-known areas in the country since the major cities are inundated.
While the idea of exploring cities in Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto is thrilling, the conditions attached to this freebie require careful consideration. Before packing your bags, let’s dive into the details.
How Does Japan’s Free Flight Offer Work?
The offer sounds straightforward—free domestic flights within Japan for international visitors. But to qualify, you must first purchase a round-trip international flight to Japan. Once you’ve secured your international ticket, JAL allows you to select domestic flights to specific cities at no extra charge.
While this could save you hundreds of dollars in travel costs, it’s important to note a few restrictions:
Eligibility – Must purchase a round-trip international flight before applying
Fly with JAL from these locations:
- US
- Canada
- Mexico
- Hawaii
- Guam
- Brazil
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Thailand
- India
- Vietnam
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Beijing
- Shanghai
- Guangzhou
- Dalian
- Tianjin
- Taipei
Destinations – Select “smaller” domestic cities within Japan following your arrival.
Layover Rules – 24-hour max in a “major hub” (like Tokyo or Kyoto), or a $100 fee applies
The promotion aims to encourage travelers to explore lesser-known regions in Japan, such as Tottori—home to one of the many cool museums you can only find in Japan, or Ehime, where you can follow the Shikoku Pilgrimage past 88 Buddhist temples.
This way, rather than sticking to traditional hotspots, travelers can explore more of Japan’s hidden gems and unknown prefectures. This initiative not only benefits tourists but also helps distribute tourism revenue more evenly across the country.
