Ana’s new free flight offer: your chance to explore a different Japan

Japan’s national airline now includes a free domestic flight for travelers arriving from Europe or the UK. It’s an invitation to look beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, and discover places where daily life unfolds at a different pace.

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Summary:

  • How to book your bonus flight with ANA.
  • The regions included in the program and what they offer.
  • A closer look at Hokkaido, Okinawa and Ishikawa.
  • The rules to know before booking.
  • Why Japan is guiding visitors toward quieter destinations.

Most trips to Japan follow a familiar pattern. Neon streets in Tokyo, temple paths in Kyoto, a taste of Osaka and a possible glimpse of Mount Fuji. These places are unforgettable, yet they absorb most of the visitor flow which can make some experiences feel less spontaneous. Traveling only through these cities means missing the quieter parts of the country where everyday life feels more grounded.

To encourage travelers to explore further, All Nippon Airways (ANA) now offers a domestic flight at no additional fare when you book an international ticket from Europe or the UK. You only pay taxes. This simple addition opens access to regions that rarely feature in first time itineraries. Snowy mountains, island coastlines, small hot spring towns. Here is how the offer works and how it can add valuable contrast to your journey.

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Your free ANA flight, how it works

The program is straightforward. Book your international flight with ANA and you can add one domestic route for free. Only the airport fees remain payable.

What you need to know before booking

  • The domestic flight must be booked at the same time as the international one
  • Airport taxes and fees apply
  • More than 40 domestic destinations are part of the offer
  • The program runs until 31 January 2026
  • Only travelers departing from Europe or the UK are eligible

Why this matters for travelers

Domestic flights are often the most expensive part of reaching lesser known regions. This offer removes that barrier which makes it easy to travel from a major airport to quieter corners of Japan without buying an extra ticket.

The destinations you can reach and why they matter

ANA’s program puts the spotlight on regions that show a different face of Japan. Landscapes shaped by snow, coral or mountains offer a contrast to the dense urban centers.

Hokkaido, winter landscapes and open horizons

Japan’s northern island stretches across wide forests and mountain ranges. It is known for winter sports with about 481 km of ski slopes. The atmosphere is calm and open which gives travelers a sense of space that can be rare in other parts of the country.

Local tip
Spend a night in a small onsen town. Outdoor baths surrounded by snow are simple and memorable.

Okinawa, warm seas and an island culture

Okinawa brings another rhythm. The water is clear, the climate is subtropical and the coral reefs attract visitors who enjoy snorkeling. The region carries the heritage of the former Ryukyu Kingdom which gives it a culture distinct from mainland Japan.

Traveler’s note
Stop by the preserved villages and small museums. They offer a close view of local traditions that shaped the islands.

Ishikawa, quiet towns and hot spring traditions

On the western side of the country, Ishikawa blends mountain views, tea houses and small streets where artisans keep their craft alive. The region is ideal for travelers seeking a slower and more contemplative pace.

Quick comparison

RegionBest forAtmosphereKey experiences
HokkaidoSnow and natureOpen, freshSkiing, hot springs, parks
OkinawaWarm weatherTropicalCoral reefs, beaches, islands
IshikawaCulture and calmMountain townsCrafts, onsens, heritage

Why Japan wants travelers to look beyond the classics

Tourism has grown quickly and certain cities feel the weight of it. Kyoto will increase its tourist tax in 2026. Access to the paths leading to Mount Fuji is now paid, and major cities often reach capacity during peak seasons. Redirecting visitors to other regions helps relieve pressure and supports local economies.

What’s behind this shift

  • Reducing congestion in major cities
  • Supporting rural areas that welcome more visitors
  • Spreading tourism income more evenly
  • Helping travelers discover experiences beyond the usual route

Budget insight
Outside the big cities, accommodation and meals often cost less, which can make a multi region trip more accessible.

Choosing the region that matches your trip

With dozens of destinations available, the best choice depends on the experience you want.

If you enjoy nature

Hokkaido is ideal for open landscapes. Kyushu is another option for forests and volcanic scenery.

If you want warm weather

Okinawa offers beaches, snorkeling and slow island days.

If you prefer crafts and culture

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Ishikawa and several small towns in Shikoku or Tottori offer heritage districts and calm atmospheres.

A simple checklist before confirming your ticket

  • Pick your region before finalizing the international ticket
  • Check the airport taxes for the domestic flight
  • Look at seasonal weather
  • Match your destination with your interests
  • Book early since availability may be limited

ANA’s offer gives travelers a chance to step off the classic Tokyo Kyoto Osaka route and experience Japan from a different angle. With one additional flight included you can reach mountains, islands or quiet countryside areas without paying more. For anyone curious about a more varied Japan, it is an easy opportunity to add depth to the trip.


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