How to score flight deals across Japan

Skip the hassle of backtracking with an open-jaw ticket to some of Japan’s most popular destinations.

Japan has exploded in popularity with Australian travellers. Record numbers of Australians are visiting the Asian nation, beguiled by the country’s dynamic food scene, struck by the juxtaposition of its vibrant cities and spectacular natural environment, and impressed by its world-class infrastructure – all while enjoying a favourable exchange rate. However, one common challenge remains: many visitors explore Japan extensively, only to find it costly and time-consuming to return to Tokyo for their departure flight. The solution? An open-jaw ticket.

Maximise your Japan adventure. (Image: Getty)

The best Japan travel hack

An open-jaw ticket allows travellers to arrive in one city, such as Tokyo, and depart from another, like Nagoya, eliminating the need for a lengthy return trip. Not only does an open-jaw ticket offer travellers more flexibility when establishing their itinerary, but it can also save them money on costly internal transfers and extra hotel costs.

China Airlines, Taiwan’s leading carrier, connects Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Japan via Taipei. Travellers can choose open-jaw tickets to 10 cities across Japan: Osaka, Tokyo, Sapporo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Okinawa, Kumamoto, Takamatsu, Hiroshima and Kagoshima.

While many airlines restrict their open-jaw tickets, China Airlines offers incredible flexibility and value, understanding that visitors like to fit as much as possible into their holidays without wasting time backtracking. And that’s the true value of an open-jaw ticket: you’ll spend less time in transit and more time at the destinations you really want to visit.

Arrive to Japan in premium business class.

Where you can fly

With over 180 flights to Japan each week, Australians are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning their holiday with China Airlines. For ski enthusiasts, an open-jaw ticket provides seamless access to multiple resorts throughout Japan. Travellers can fly into Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, just two hours from Niseko’s popular ski resorts, before heading to the slopes in Hakuda and Nozawa Onsen; later, they can use their open-jaw ticket to depart from Tokyo.

If skiing isn’t the main event, travellers can consider flying into Osaka to see the cherry blossoms bloom in Osaka Castle Park, where 4000 trees erupt in an explosion of pink between March and April. An alternative route to see the cherry blossoms is to fly into Nagoya, where 1000 trees bloom in Meijo Park, which sits alongside the famous 1600s Nagoya Castle. The city has deep ties to Samurai history and culture, and visitors are able to explore the incredible castles and palaces that still remain.

Many visitors with an interest in history fly into Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a monument to the dark history of the city, as well as Genbaku Dome, one of the few remaining ruins from the 1945 nuclear attack. For a different historical perspective, flying into Okinawa offers a chance to explore Ryukyuan culture, distinct from that of mainland Japan, while also visiting Second World War wrecks that now serve as world-class diving sites.

For those seeking authentic Japanese wellness experiences, Kumamoto offers access to Mt Aso, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. After hiking through its expansive grasslands, visitors can unwind in the open-air hot springs of Kurokawa Onsen, one of Japan’s most scenic traditional onsen. While the country is highly regarded for its geothermal hot springs, travellers who fly into the city of Kagoshima – home to Japan’s most active volcano – can enjoy a unique experience: a chance to try the Ibusuki sand baths, where guests are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.

Japan is home to countless renowned culinary destinations, including Takamatsu, famous for its Sanuki udon noodles. These thick udon are available at small self-serve shops across the city. For a more traditional experience, visitors can explore the tea houses in the famous Ritsurin Garden.

No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing Tokyo, a city where towering skyscrapers stand beside ancient shrines, traditional ryokans contrast with futuristic capsule hotels, and sensory overload meets moments of quiet tranquillity.

Travellers who want to escape the crowds entirely can land in Fukuoka. The city often flies under the radar for most Australians – which means visitors can enjoy historic shrines and temples at Gion without the crowds that haunt similar sites in Kyoto.

Immerse yourself in Japan’s vibrant energy. (Image: Getty)

The airline

Since the 1959, China Airlines has connected Taiwan with the world. Flying from its home port of Taipei, the full-service airline flies to 29 countries, including departures from the east coast of Australia. While the airline is known for its excellent connections, it also carries a huge reputation for comfort and class.

China Airlines is renowned for its Taiwanese hospitality, offering world-class service from its thoughtful and attentive cabin crew. The modern fleet of aircraft, including the A350, features stylish, spacious cabins with full entertainment systems and an exceptional inflight menu.

Additionally, guests departing Australia are each allocated two pieces of checked luggage, making the airline the perfect choice for skiers needing to lug gear – or those who like to indulge in a spot of shopping while away. Meanwhile, if you’re flying business class from Taiwan, you’ll be able to indulge in exclusive Michelin-starred Japanese dining, one of the first airlines in the world to offer the experience.

Fly to Japan in comfort and style with China Airlines.

An open-jaw ticket