Japan’s two largest airlines, Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA), have launched an unprecedented campaign offering free domestic round-trip flights to international travelers. This initiative aims to revitalize tourism in the Hokuriku region, an area still recovering from the devastating Noto Peninsula earthquake that struck on New Year’s Day 2024.
A Helping Hand for Hokuriku
The campaign is a key component of the Japanese government’s broader “Hokuriku Oenwari” (Hokuriku Support Discount) program, designed to encourage both domestic and international visitors to return to the region. By making the beautiful and culturally rich areas of Ishikawa, Toyama, Fukui, and Niigata prefectures more accessible, the airlines and the government hope to stimulate the local economy and support a swift recovery.
Japan Airlines (JAL) Offer
JAL’s “Hokuriku Support” campaign provides complimentary round-trip tickets to travelers flying to Japan on a JAL international ticket.
- Routes: From Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) or Osaka’s Itami Airport (ITM) to Komatsu Airport (KMQ) in Ishikawa or Niigata Airport (KIJ).
- Travel Period: Until March 29, 2025.
- Booking: Reservations must be made through JAL’s overseas websites.
All Nippon Airways (ANA) Offer
ANA is running a similar promotion for international visitors to encourage travel to the affected areas.
- Routes: From Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) to Komatsu Airport (KMQ) or Noto Satoyama Airport (NTQ).
- Travel Period: Until March 29, 2025.
- Booking: The offer is available via ANA’s regional websites for travelers outside Japan.
Background: The Road to Recovery
On January 1, 2024, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula, resulting in over 240 fatalities and causing extensive damage to thousands of homes and critical infrastructure. The disaster also dealt a severe blow to the region’s tourism industry, a vital part of its economy. Widespread cancellations followed, leaving many local businesses in a precarious situation.
While Japan as a whole has experienced a remarkable tourism boom in 2024, welcoming a record-breaking 3 million international visitors per month in the spring, the benefits have been slow to reach the Hokuriku region. This free flight initiative is a direct and strategic measure to bridge that gap, redirecting the flow of global travelers to an area that needs their support the most.
Future Impact: More Than Just a Free Ticket
This campaign is expected to have a significant and positive impact on the Hokuriku region. The influx of international tourists will provide a much-needed boost to local hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour operators. For travelers, it presents a unique opportunity to explore a less-traveled, yet incredibly rewarding, part of Japan.
A Chance to Discover Japan’s Hidden Gems
The Hokuriku region, often referred to as Japan’s “hidden gem,” is home to a wealth of attractions:
- Kanazawa: Known for Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, the historic Higashi Chaya geisha district, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Toyama: Famous for the stunning Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and its picturesque bay, known for fresh seafood.
- Fukui: Home to the magnificent Eiheiji Temple, a head temple of Zen Buddhism, and the world-renowned Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum.
By visiting, travelers are not only getting a free flight but are also contributing directly to the recovery efforts of a resilient community. This initiative demonstrates a powerful synergy between tourism and social responsibility, turning a vacation into a meaningful act of support. Your visit can play a small but important part in rebuilding the vibrant spirit of the Hokuriku region.
