Japan Airlines Eases Tokyo Overtourism with Free Domestic Travel Deals, Here’s What You Need To Know

Sunday, July 13, 2025

Japan Airlines (JAL) wants international travellers to be able to experience more than just Tokyo, and is providing free flights across Japan. The airline is offering one-way flights to over 60 locations around Japan, as part of an ongoing effort to fight overtourism in Tokyo. Depop-Nation is a measure, started in September 2024, to illicitly encourage people to visit- where they then can spread country-wide.

Tourism to Japan has surged in recent years, with the country welcoming 37 million visitors in 2024—an impressive 47% increase from the previous year. However, this growth has led to overcrowding in popular destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto, putting a strain on local infrastructure and resources.

The Solution: Free Flights to Regional Japan

To alleviate this pressure, JAL and the Japanese government have teamed up to offer international tourists free one-way flights to destinations like Hokkaido, Okinawa, and Osaka when they book an international flight to Japan. Passengers arriving in Tokyo via either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) airports are eligible for this promotion. The offer applies to travelers from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, and other selected countries, with flights available through JAL’s Japan Explorer Pass and ANA’s Discover Japan Fare.

This initiative encourages tourists to venture beyond Japan’s bustling metropolises and discover the country’s regional gems, which may otherwise be overlooked. Whether it’s the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, the tropical beaches of Okinawa, or the historic beauty of Kyoto, there’s a new opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in Japan’s diverse culture.

Why This Offer Matters for Japanese Tourism

Japan’s tourism landscape has long been dominated by major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, with visitors flocking to the iconic temples, shrines, and bustling shopping districts. But this has led to challenges related to overcrowding, particularly in top tourist spots. The surge in travelers has placed immense pressure on local resources, including public transport, accommodations, and healthcare systems.

The free domestic flight offer from JAL aims to address these issues by encouraging tourists to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Regional Japan is home to rich cultural traditions, stunning natural beauty, and less-explored tourist attractions that offer visitors a chance to experience the country in a more relaxed, authentic setting.

How the Offer Works

International tourists flying to Japan can take advantage of this offer when they book their flight with Japan Airlines. The free domestic flights are available on one-way routes from Tokyo to over 60 destinations across Japan. This includes flights to popular locations such as Osaka, Hokkaido, Okinawa, and Fukuoka.

Eligible passengers need to book their international flight and domestic segment as part of the same reservation to qualify. JAL’s Japan Explorer Pass and ANA’s Discover Japan Fare allow travelers to access discounted domestic flights, making it easier than ever to explore Japan’s diverse regions.

For example, visitors landing in Tokyo can fly to Okinawa for a tropical escape, or head to Hokkaido to experience the natural beauty of Japan’s northernmost island. Whether it’s skiing in winter or exploring lush landscapes during summer, there’s something for every type of traveler.

The Growing Need for Regional Tourism

Japan’s tourism industry has been thriving, but there is a growing need to distribute visitors more evenly across the country. By focusing on lesser-known destinations, Japan can ease the strain on overburdened areas like Tokyo and Kyoto while also boosting local economies in smaller towns and rural areas.

The Japanese government has been working closely with airlines, including JAL and ANA, to promote regional tourism. By offering incentives like free flights, they are making it easier for tourists to venture beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

Impact on the Local Economy

Regional tourism plays a vital role in Japan’s economy. By encouraging tourists to explore areas outside major cities, local businesses in rural areas benefit from the influx of international visitors. This includes hotels, restaurants, and local attractions, which otherwise may not receive as much attention from foreign tourists.

In addition, regional tourism helps preserve the cultural heritage of smaller towns. Tourists visiting areas like Hokkaido and Okinawa contribute to the preservation of local traditions, while also helping to create jobs and economic opportunities for local communities.

A Win for Sustainable Tourism

The free domestic flight initiative is also a step towards more sustainable tourism. By redistributing tourists across Japan, this initiative helps reduce the environmental impact caused by overcrowding in popular destinations. It also promotes a more balanced and sustainable growth of the tourism industry, which is vital for the long-term health of Japan’s tourism sector.

Japan Airlines and other carriers are committed to promoting responsible travel, with a focus on sustainability. This includes supporting eco-friendly accommodations, promoting regional attractions that align with sustainable tourism practices, and encouraging tourists to respect local cultures and traditions.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Japanese Tourism

As Japan’s tourism industry continues to recover and grow, the country is focusing on creating a more sustainable and equitable travel experience for visitors. The free domestic flights offered by Japan Airlines are just one of many steps being taken to ensure that tourism benefits the entire country, not just its major cities.

By encouraging tourists to explore new destinations, Japan is redefining the travel experience and opening up new opportunities for adventure and discovery. Whether it’s a serene escape in the mountains or a vibrant experience in a coastal city, Japan offers something for everyone. With continued support from airlines, government initiatives, and local businesses, Japan is well on its way to becoming a model for sustainable tourism and equitable growth in the global travel industry.