All Nippon Airways Offers Free Flights to 49 Japanese Destinations

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has launched an exciting initiative offering free domestic flights for travelers from the United Kingdom and Europe. Starting November 24, 2024, eligible passengers can book complimentary flights to 49 destinations across Japan, aimed at promoting tourism in lesser-known areas of the country. This initiative comes as a response to the rising concern over overtourism in major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto.

The collaboration with the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) will run until January 31, 2026. The “Stopover & Add-on Free Fare” program allows eligible economy class passengers to book up to two free domestic flights when they purchase an international ticket to Japan. This means that travelers can explore vibrant locations like Hiroshima or Okinawa without incurring additional costs beyond the standard fare to Tokyo.

While the flights themselves are free, passengers will still be responsible for applicable taxes and fees, and availability may vary. Bookings can be made through travel agents, ANA offices outside Japan, or directly via the ANA website.

Encouraging Regional Exploration

In 2024, Japan welcomed a record 36.9 million visitors, yet a staggering less than 10% ventured beyond popular tourist spots. This initiative is designed to encourage travelers to discover Japan’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in regions that are often overlooked.

The participating airports span across various regions, including:

– **Chūbu Region**: Komatsu, Nagoya, Niigata, Shizuoka, Toyama, Wajima
– **Chūgoku Region**: Hiroshima, Iwakuni, Okayama, Ōnan, Tottori, Yamaguchi-Ube, Yonago
– **Hokkaidō**: Asahikawa, Kushiro, Hakodate, Monbetsu, Nakashibetsu, Ōzora, Rishiri Island, Sapporo, Wakkanai
– **Kansai Region**: Kobe, Osaka
– **Kantō Region**: Hachijō-jima, Tokyo (Haneda and Narita)
– **Kyūshū**: Fukuoka, Ishigaki, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Miyakojima, Miyazaki, Nagasaki, Okinawa, Ōita, Saga, Tsushima Island
– **Shikoku**: Kōchi, Matsuyama, Takamatsu, Tokushima
– **Tōhoku Region**: Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Odate

This initiative not only aims to alleviate the pressures of overtourism in crowded cities but also to highlight the diverse offerings of Japan’s regional landscapes, cuisine, and culture.

As travelers take advantage of this offer, they are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local experiences that await them, further enriching their journey through Japan. With the prospect of exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, this program provides an excellent opportunity for tourists to see a different side of the country.