Japan Airlines is giving away free flights to American travelers—here's how to get one
In a bid to fight overtourism and encourage exploration beyond Japan's capital, JAL is offering international travelers complimentary domestic flights to any of its 64 destinations across the country. That means the ancient temples of Kyoto, the powdery ski slopes of Niseko or the coral reefs of Okinawa could all be part of your trip—for free.
Here's how it works: Book your international flight with Japan Airlines and as long as you include a domestic leg on the same reservation, that flight within Japan won't cost you a yen. The offer is available to travelers from countries including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, India, and others. No end date has been announced, making this a golden opportunity with an open window.
What's the catch? Very few. The main condition: U.S., Canada, Mexico and China-based travelers will pay a $100 stopover fee if they stay in their initial destination (usually Tokyo) for more than 24 hours before moving on. Everyone else flies domestically free of charge, no stopover fee applied.
Checked luggage is included: economy and premium economy passengers get two bags (up to 50 pounds each), while business and first-class travelers get three (up to 70 pounds each). So, you're free to pack for the slopes, the countryside and the beach, all in one go.
This offer is part of a bigger push by the country to spread the love for Japan to cities other than Tokyo. By making it easier (and cheaper) to travel further afield, JAL's program is designed to spread the tourism footprint across to the country's lesser-visited gems.
If you've been dreaming of sipping matcha in Uji, soaking in an onsen in Beppu or wandering the samurai streets of Kanazawa—this is your chance to go beyond the expected, without blowing your budget. Find details and booking info here.
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