Japan’s not always the cheapest destination to fly into. But if you know where to look, there are some surprising deals to be had. After multiple trips across the country (and way too many hours spent watching flight prices like a hawk), I’ve put together this list of the 10 cheapest airports in Japan for 2025. These are the entry points that consistently show up with lower fares, whether you’re flying from the U.S., Europe, or within Asia.
One important thing to note: not all of these airports offer direct international flights. Some will require a connection through Tokyo, Osaka, or another major hub…but the savings can absolutely be worth the extra leg. If you’re headed to Kyoto, Hokkaido, or the beaches of Okinawa, knowing where to land can save you hundreds right from the start. Here are the cheapest airports to fly into…and why each one deserves a spot on your radar.
#1 tip for finding the cheapest flights to Japan
Before diving into all the cheap flight hacks to Japan, I’ve got an insider tip to share. For the past 5 years, I’ve been using Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to discover cheap flights to Japan from USA, and it’s allowed me to find shockingly cheap airfare tickets. All you have to do is enter your departure airport along with your final destination and they’ll send mistake fares and other extra cheap flight deals directly to your inbox for FREE!
Last year, Scott’s email alerts helped me save thousands of dollars on airfare. This includes most recently, a $672 roundtrip flight from Boston to Tokyo. With Going, I typically save an average of $300-500 roundtrip on selected flight routes.
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Considerations when looking for the cheapest way to fly to Japan
As always, it’s important to remember that even the cheapest flight to Japan from the USA will be affected by when you’re planning your trip and where you’re leaving from. One of the best ways to stay within your budget is to pick a city and an airport that are consistently affordable year-round.
In the list below, I’ve compiled the very best airports to fly to Japan from the US. These cities not only have inexpensive airports, but they also are fun, fascinating tourist destinations. Some, like Tokyo and Osaka, are among the most popular vacation spots in Asia. Others, like Oita and Sapporo, are diamonds in the rough.
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Wherever you choose to go, you’ll be exposed to a wealth of traditions and cultural practices different from your own. Touring Japan’s unique cultures is an enriching experience. It’s also one that should be undertaken with great respect. Remember that the Shinto shrines, ancient palaces, and other attractions aren’t just cheap places to visit in Japan. They’re also part of the lives, heritage, and identities of the Japanese people.
Cheapest places to fly to in Japan in 2025: Japanese cities with cheap flights deals
Below are the cheapest flights to Japan from the US and other places around the world:
1. Narita International Airport (NRT)
- 🏠 Location: About 40 miles east of central Tokyo
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Tokyo’s major international gateway with tons of airline competition
- ✈️ Best Airlines: ZIPAIR, United, American Airlines
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Narita instead of Haneda to score lower fares. Just plan for a longer transfer into the city
Narita International is one of the most affordable airports to fly into if you’re heading to Japan from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Dallas. Roundtrip fares often sit between $750–$880, especially during shoulder seasons like March and November when crowds thin out but the weather stays mild.
Despite being about 90 minutes from Tokyo’s city center, the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner make the transfer smooth and scenic. Once you’re in Tokyo, you’ve got easy access to spots like Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Ueno. It’s also a great base if you’re planning day trips to Nikko, Mount Takao, or Kamakura.
Fun fact: Terminal 3 at Narita was built specifically for low-cost carriers and designed like a running track to save money on signs and moving walkways. That creative layout actually makes it faster for budget travelers to get through the terminal and catch public transit into Tokyo.
- Read next: Unique Airbnbs in Tokyo
2. Haneda Airport (HND)
- 🏠 Location: About 10 miles south of central Tokyo
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major domestic and international hub with efficient airline operations and more direct flights from the U.S.
- ✈️ Best Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Delta
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Flights into Haneda tend to be slightly more expensive than Narita, but you’ll save time and money on transfers — especially if staying in central Tokyo.
Haneda is Tokyo’s closest and most convenient airport, and in 2025, it’s becoming increasingly competitive on price thanks to expanded long-haul routes and newer U.S. carriers entering the market. Roundtrip flights from cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, or San Francisco regularly fall between $820–$950, with occasional deals dropping below $800 if you book 2–3 months in advance.
The best part? You’re only about 30–40 minutes from Tokyo Station via the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line. That’s a game-changer if you’re short on time or want to jump straight into the action in Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Ginza. Haneda is also well-connected for domestic flights to Osaka, Fukuoka, and Sapporo.
Fun fact: Haneda was voted the world’s cleanest airport and consistently ranks in the top 5 globally for punctuality, making it a favorite among frequent fliers and aviation nerds alike.
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3. Oita Airport (OIT)
- 🏠 Location: About 20 miles northeast of Oita City, Kyushu
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Regional airport with less traffic and competitive domestic routes
- ✈️ Best Airlines: ANA, Jetstar Japan, Peach Aviation
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Land in Oita and take a local train to nearby hot spring towns instead of flying into pricey Fukuoka
Flights into Oita Airport often range between $780–$890 roundtrip from West Coast cities like San Francisco and Seattle. It’s a quieter, less obvious entry point into Japan, which keeps fares consistently lower, especially from February to April. Those months also coincide with Kyushu’s early cherry blossom season and mild hiking weather.
Once you land, you’re under an hour from Beppu and Yufuin, two of the most famous onsen towns in the country. Rent a car or hop on a scenic train to explore the countryside, volcanic hot springs, and even the quirky Hell Tour route through steaming geothermal pools.
Fun fact: Oita is home to Takasakiyama Monkey Park, where wild macaques roam freely without cages. It’s just 40 minutes from the airport and makes for a perfect stop before heading into the city or nearby hot spring resorts.
4. Yamagata Airport (GAJ)
- 🏠 Location: About 15 miles northwest of Yamagata City, Tohoku
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Smaller regional airport with discounted routes and seasonal flight deals
- ✈️ Best Airlines: JAL, Fuji Dream Airlines
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Yamagata as a cheaper alternative to Sendai for exploring Japan’s underrated north
Roundtrip fares to Yamagata Airport from cities like Chicago or Seattle tend to hover around $820–$940, with price dips in September and late February when ski resorts and hiking trails are less crowded. It’s a solid budget-friendly alternative for travelers eyeing the Tohoku region.
The airport sits less than 40 minutes from downtown Yamagata and about an hour from scenic spots like Ginzan Onsen and Mount Zao. Spring is ideal for cherry blossoms along the Mamigasaki River, while winter brings snow-covered temples and steamy outdoor baths. You can also climb the 1,000 steps of Yamadera Temple for panoramic views and a bit of cardio.
Fun fact: Yamagata holds an annual festival where 30,000 people are served hot Imoni stew from a six-meter-wide pot. Visit in September to eat like a local and catch one of Japan’s most unique food traditions right near the airport.
5. Nagasaki Airport (NGS)
- 🏠 Location: About 25 miles north of Nagasaki City, Kyushu
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Lower travel demand and affordable domestic routes from Tokyo and Osaka
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Peach Aviation, ANA, Jetstar Japan
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Skip the big cities and fly straight into Nagasaki to explore Kyushu with fewer tourists and better airfare deals
Nagasaki Airport is one of the cheapest ways to enter southern Japan, with roundtrip flights from LAX or JFK typically falling between $770–$880. Rates often dip in early June and late October, which is perfect for travelers who want warm weather without summer crowds.
Once you arrive, you’re just under an hour from Nagasaki’s portside attractions, including Dejima, Peace Park, and Glover Garden. Day trips from the city open up even more, like exploring Hashima Island (aka Gunkanjima) or heading to Unzen Onsen for a mountain-side soak. The area is rich in history with international influence, thanks to its long-standing ties to Dutch and Portuguese trade.
Fun fact: Nagasaki Biopark, located 50 minutes from the airport, is one of the few zoos in the world where capybaras roam freely and might walk right up to you. It’s a fun, low-key outing for travelers of any age.
6. New Chitose Airport (CTS)
- 🏠 Location: About 30 miles southeast of Sapporo, Hokkaido
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Large northern hub with plenty of budget airline routes
- ✈️ Best Airlines: AirAsia Japan, Skymark Airlines, Peach Aviation
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into CTS during shoulder season and use the airport’s train link to reach Sapporo quickly and cheaply
Chances are, you’ll find fares into Sapporo from places like San Francisco, Dallas, or New York that run between $820–$950 roundtrip. The sweet spot is from late September to early November, when summer crowds have left and the fall colors hit full display across Hokkaido.
Once you land in New Chitose Airport, it’s an easy 40-minute ride into downtown Sapporo. The city blends modern vibes with wide open spaces, making it feel less hectic than Tokyo. You can explore Hokkaido University’s gardens, shop in Tanukikoji Arcade, or visit the Historic Village of Hokkaido to see old Japanese buildings from the Meiji era. And for nature lovers, Lake Shikotsu and Noboribetsu Onsen are both perfect day trips from the city.
Fun fact: New Chitose Airport has its own hot spring spa and even a movie theater, making it one of the most relaxing layover airports in the country. It’s a smart arrival point for travelers who want a mellow start to their Japan adventure.
7. Okayama Momotaro Airport (OKJ)
- 🏠 Location: About 11 miles northwest of Okayama City, Chugoku region
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Smaller airport with seasonal route promotions and less tourist traffic
- ✈️ Best Airlines: ANA, Jetstar Japan, Peach Aviation
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Okayama as your home base and hop on the Shinkansen to reach Kyoto, Hiroshima, or Osaka for less
Roundtrip flights into Okayama Momotaro Airport usually fall between $790–$900 when departing from U.S. hubs like Seattle or Atlanta. The most affordable time to book is in May or mid-November when cherry blossom or fall foliage tourism dies down and prices ease up.
Once you land, it’s just a 30-minute ride into the city. You can walk or bike to major sights like Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, and the riverside cultural trails. The area is also a launchpad to nearby Kurashiki, known for its well-preserved Edo-period canal district and museums. Consider grabbing a Japan Rail Pass to save money on quick bullet train rides to nearby cities instead of flying into pricier airports.
Fun fact: The airport is named after Momotaro, a legendary boy from Japanese folklore who was born from a peach. Statues and references are everywhere, which makes arriving here feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life fairy tale.
8. Takamatsu Airport (TAK)
- 🏠 Location: About 11 miles southwest of Takamatsu, Shikoku
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Low-traffic regional airport with budget-friendly domestic routes
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Jetstar Japan, ANA, Spring Japan
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Takamatsu for access to Japan’s art islands, avoiding higher fares into Kansai or Tokyo
Roundtrip fares into Takamatsu Airport generally range from $800–$920, especially from Chicago or San Diego. September and February are ideal for lower prices and lighter crowds. Booking a multi-city itinerary or open-jaw ticket that arrives here and departs from Osaka or Tokyo can help cut down your overall flight costs.
From the airport, it’s a quick 30-minute ride into the city. Takamatsu is famous for its udon noodles and traditional gardens like Ritsurin Koen. Ferries to Naoshima and Teshima are cheap and frequent, making island hopping affordable for budget travelers.
Fun fact: Locals call Takamatsu the “Udon Kingdom” for a reason. The airport even has its own noodle shops serving hand-pulled Sanuki udon, which is perfect for a pre-adventure bite or quick arrival meal.
9. Kansai International Airport (KIX)
- 🏠 Location: About 30 miles southwest of Osaka, Kansai region
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major international hub with direct U.S. routes and budget competition
- ✈️ Best Airlines: ZIPAIR, United, Peach Aviation
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Consider flying into KIX and out of Tokyo to save on domestic transfers and maximize open-jaw itineraries
Flights into Osaka’s Kansai International often fall between $770–$880 roundtrip from major U.S. airports like LAX, JFK, and Dallas. Prices tend to drop in mid-May and early November, after cherry blossom and fall foliage peaks.
The airport is connected to the city by train in under an hour, which keeps your arrival smooth and budget-friendly. Osaka itself is packed with fun, like the lively Dotonbori district and the street food stalls around Shinsekai. You’re also within 90 minutes of Kyoto and Nara, which makes this a great starting point for a cultural deep dive across western Japan. To save more, use a Kansai Area Pass for unlimited train rides during your stay.
Fun fact: KIX was built on an artificial island in Osaka Bay and is designed to withstand major earthquakes and typhoons. Its resilience keeps your travel plans steady even during Japan’s stormy seasons.
10. Nanki-Shirahama Airport (SHM)
- 🏠 Location: About 3 miles from Shirahama Beach, Wakayama Prefecture
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Serves a smaller resort town with limited flights and seasonal discounts
- ✈️ Best Airlines: JAL, ANA
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a cheap domestic hop from Tokyo or Osaka into Shirahama instead of splurging on long-haul beach resorts
Roundtrip tickets to Nanki-Shirahama Airport usually come in around $800–$920 when paired with a domestic leg from Tokyo. Prices are lowest in late September and early December, when beach crowds fade and onsen resorts offer off-season deals.
Once you land, you’re just minutes from sandy shores, oceanfront ryokans, and some of Japan’s most scenic coastal walks. Adventure World, a combo zoo and amusement park, is great for families and includes Japan’s largest panda family. For outdoor lovers, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails are close by and ideal for a spiritual hike or peaceful nature escape. If you’re trying to save, booking lodging with free shuttle service from the airport helps stretch your yen.
Fun fact: Shirahama is one of only two towns in Japan with white sand imported from Australia. The beach’s tropical vibe makes it a rare warm-weather getaway without needing to fly to Okinawa.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about cheap airports to fly into Japan
Before you fly to Japan, there are a few more things you should know. Here are some common questions and answers to keep in mind when looking for cheap flights to Japan from the USA.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Japan from the USA?
The two most expensive times to visit Japan are in the summer and the winter. Summer is a popular vacation time for US travelers in general. Winter, meanwhile, is popular for those journeying to Japan specifically, as it allows them to get away from the frigid temperatures of the Western hemisphere.
As a result, airfare to Japan during June-July and December-January is often expensive. By contrast, spring and autumn are among the cheapest times of year to fly to Japan.
If you’re wondering what month is the cheapest to fly to Japan, I recommend booking a flight in February, March, or April. As an added bonus, this coincides with cherry blossom season, meaning the country is at its most scenic.
Are flights to Japan more expensive now?
Konnichiwa! If you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms, sushi, and ancient temples, you might be wondering about the cost of flights to Japan right now.
The truth is, flight prices can fluctuate based on a variety of factors. This includes the time of year, the day of the week, and even current events. For instance, during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season in the spring or the autumn foliage season, flight prices might spike due to increased demand.
In the current context, it’s also important to consider the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions, changes in demand, and airline policies can all influence flight prices.
The best way to get a handle on current flight prices to Japan is to check a reliable flight search engine, set up price alerts, and compare different dates and airports. I highly recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights and Dollar Flight Club to find the best flights to Japan. And remember, booking well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can often help you snag the best deal.
What are the airlines that fly to Japan from the US?
Wondering about the top Japanese airlines that fly from the US to Japan? According to Skyscanner, there are currently 8 airlines offering direct flights to Japan. With that in mind, the best airlines to Japan from the US are as follows:
- ANA (All Nippon Airways)
- United
- Japan Airlines
- American Airlines
- Malaysia Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Thai Airway
- Delta
How many international airports are in Japan in total?
Although Japan is currently home to almost 100 airports in total, only four are designated international airports. The main airports in japan are:
- Narita International Airport (NRT)
- Haneda Airport (HND), also known as Tokyo International Airport
- Kansai International Airport (KIX)
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
How much is the average flight cost to Japan?
The average cost of airfare to Japan fluctuates based on multiple factors. These include what time of year it is, what the price of fuel is, where you’re departing from, and more. That said, the average price of a roundtrip flight to Japan in 2025 is around $800-1,000.
If you want to find the cheapest flight tickets to Japan, there are a few things you can do to ensure the best results. Often, the most important thing is to book your trip well in advance. Last-minute bookings typically cost more, as the demand for tickets is more urgent.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Japan?
If you’re planning a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun, timing is key. The question is, when should you hit that “book now” button?
The sweet spot for booking flights to Japan is typically around 3 to 6 months in advance. Why, you ask? Well, this is often when airlines of Japan release their most competitive fares. Book too early, and you might miss out on these deals. Book too late, and prices could skyrocket due to dwindling availability.
But remember, this is a general guideline and can vary based on factors like the time of year and your departure city. For example, if you’re planning to visit during popular times like cherry blossom season or Golden Week, you might want to book even earlier to secure a good deal.
Why you should fly to Japan in 2025
When most gaijin (the Japanese word for us foreigners) think of modern-day Japan, we tend to envision the colorful urban sprawl of Tokyo. While Tokyo is itself one of the best and cheapest cities in Japan to visit, there’s so much more to see.
From the fairy-tale wonder of Okayama to the Western-inspired architecture of Sapporo to the sunny beaches of Shirahama, Japan is a diverse country. Each city is like its own country with its own unique history, culture, and traditions.
During your trip, it’s important to remember that there are things that matter more than simply finding the cheapest airport to fly to Japan from the US. Which destination appeals most to you personally? If you’re a famished foodie, you might be drawn to the culinary scenes of Yamagata and Takamatsu. If you’re fascinated by Japanese history, on the other hand, a visit to Nagasaki is essential.
Japan has something for everyone
Whatever you’re looking for, Japan has all that and more. If there’s any one reason to fly to Japan in 2025, it’s because of how versatile the country is. There really is something for everyone, regardless of age or interest.
Best of all, visiting Japan offers American tourists an experience completely unique from what they may be used to. The castles of the daimyo, the temples of the Buddhist monks, the armor of the samurai, the Shinto practice of the Misogi ritual: it’s all an honored part of Japanese heritage. When you arrive, you’ll find that these things are inextricably woven into the fabric of Japanese life.
Being able to witness that legacy firsthand is an incredible privilege. Every time I visit Japan, I am thankful for the opportunity to do so. I predict that when you visit Japan, you’ll feel the same way. More than that, you’ll feel compelled to return… again… and again… and again…
For more travel tips (and inspiration), follow my adventures on Instagram: @Global.Viewpoint. Happy Travels! -Jon
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