Japan has opened its arms to international travellers like never before, with Japan Airlines (JAL) Japan Explorer Pass offering special fares on domestic flights to over 30 cities in JAL’s domestic network to visitors from select countries, including Australia. Japan Explorer Pass is designed to encourage tourists to explore lesser-known gems across the country. Here’s everything you need to know about the Japan Explorer Pass.

Cheap Flights to Japan with JAL’s Japan Explorer Pass: What’s the Deal?

Japan Airlines launched the Japan Explorer Pass aimed at boosting tourism in lesser-visited regions. Travellers from Australia, the U.S., Canada, and several other countries can enjoy  special fares on domestic flights when they book an international round-trip ticket. The goal is to promote Japan’s beautiful but less crowded destinations beyond the major tourist hubs.  

Japan Explorer Pass Special Fares and Eligible Routes 

The Japan Explorer Pass provides special fares to eligible routes in Japan’s domestic network.  

• Fare 1: From JPY 7,700 
  8 short routes including Tokyo-Nagoya 

• Fare 2: From JPY 11,000 
  61 middle routes including Tokyo-Akita 

• Fare 3: From JPY 14,300 
  49 long routes including Tokyo-Kyushu 

For eligible routes visit Japan Airline’s Japan Explorer Pass web page. 

If you're planning a trip to Japan while the promotion is still live, this offer is a fantastic opportunity to explore places off the beaten track like Hokkaido, Nagoya, or Kyushu, which are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

Eligibility for the Japan Explorer Pass

However, it’s important to keep in mind that to qualify for the special fare flights you must meet the following eligibility criteria: 

• Residence must be outside Japan, 

• Need to hold return flight tickets to and from Japan, 

• Passport information is required at time of purchase. 

For full eligibility criteria visit the JAL website. 

How Does the Japan Explorer Pass Work?

If you’re ready to take advantage of this incredible offer, here’s how it works: 

Book a round-trip international flight with Japan Airlines to Japan from Australia (or any other eligible country). 

Book your special fare domestic flights on eligible routes within Japan.

Plan your travel route: While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are must-visit cities, consider exploring less-crowded regions like Hokkaido for its stunning landscapes or Okinawa for its tropical vibe. 

Once you’ve booked the tickets, make sure to check out our Japan Travel Guide for some helpful tips on what you need to know before exploring this wonderful country and culture. 

Overtourism Concerns: Will Cheap Flights to Japan Stretch Popular Destinations Even Thinner?

While Japan is offering cheap flights to spread tourism beyond its major cities, some experts like Business Insider are worried that the promotion could backfire. Popular destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are already grappling with overtourism, which is driving up hotel prices and straining local infrastructure. Despite the push to visit less-travelled areas, many visitors will likely still flock to these iconic cities.  

Sara Aiko, founder of the Curated Kyoto travel agency, noted to Business Insider that most tourists, especially first-time visitors, will still prioritise must-see attractions like Mount Fuji and the bustling streets of Tokyo. This means that while the cheaper domestic flights offer an incentive to explore, the hotspots will remain crowded, potentially leading to overbooked accommodations and pricier stays.

Exploring Japan with Ease

Japan’s free domestic flight offer is a fantastic way for Australians to explore beyond the typical tourist traps, discovering the lesser-known beauty of the country. But with the potential challenges of overtourism, crowded destinations, and travel uncertainties, having the right travel insurance for Japan can help you travel with ease. Before you jet off to the land of the rising sun, consider the right coverage for your needs with Fast Cover Travel Insurance.

FAQs

How do I qualify for Japan’s cheap domestic flights with a special fare?

To qualify for cheaper domestic flights with JAL’s Japan Explorer Pass, you must reside outside of Japan and hold an international round-trip ticket with Japan Airlines from Australia or another eligible country whilst the promotion is available. Head over to Japan Airlines website for further information.

Is it safe to visit Japan right now?

Japan is usually a safe destination for travellers, but like any trip, there can be unexpected issues such as illness, accidents, or theft. Travel insurance can help in the case of the unexpected when things goes wrong.

What if I plan to do adventure activities in Japan?

Fast Cover offers certain cover for many sports and leisure activities on all policies such as snorkelling and hiking below 3000m, however, the more adventurous traveller can customise their policy using the Adventure Pack* add-on to add cover for more adventurous activities like quad biking and abseiling. As Fast Cover cannot cover all activities, make sure you check out the PDS for further information on what activities can be covered and what activities require the Adventure Pack add on.  Having travel insurance for sports, leisure and adventure activities can help cover you while travelling the globe.

* For adventure activities requiring additional cover, see Benefit 24: Adventure Pack. Adventure Pack only available if you are aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue. Subject to eligibility criteria & policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions. Consider PDS & TMD on fastcover.com.au. Underwritten by certain underwriters at Lloyd's. 

Any advice is general only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which product is right for you.