TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Japan Airlines offers free domestic flights within Japan to international tourists, including from Indonesia and several other countries. This complimentary flight program aims to encourage travelers to visit less popular cities in the country and alleviate overtourism in popular destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
The free domestic flights have been available since September 10 for tourists from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, followed by citizens of Thailand, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Tourists from Indonesia, India, China, and Taiwan can start enjoying these flights from September 27, 2024.
In addition to the well-known cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, Japan offers numerous other captivating destinations. Here are the top five cities to explore:
1. Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is renowned for its beer and annual snow festival. If you are visiting Japan during winter, don’t miss Sapporo, as the ice slides and giant ice sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival attract visitors from around the globe. The city also has Olympic-standard ski jumps and tracks from the 1972 Winter Olympics.
During spring and summer, the mountains here are lush green, offering stunning scenery perfect for hiking.
2. Okinawa
Located in southern Japan, Okinawa is famous for its pristine white sandy beaches. This region is a paradise for water activities, such as snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding.
Shurijo Castle in Naha, the largest city on Okinawa Island, is a must-visit for culture enthusiasts. This red Ryukyuan gusuku castle with its distinctive curved castle walls provides a glimpse into the island’s rich culture and history.
3. Osaka
Osaka is a bustling city with its neon-lit streets, abundant street food options, and countless attractions. The heart of the city lies on both sides of the canal between Dotonboribashi Bridge and Nipponbashi Bridge, an area known as Dotonbori. At night, this area transforms into a foodie’s haven.
In addition to food adventures, tourists can enjoy stunning city views from the Hep Five Ferris Wheel, stroll through Osaka Castle Park, and visit Universal Studios Japan.
4. Fukuoka
While Osaka is often referred to as the “kitchen of Japan” due to its delicious cuisine, Fukuoka offers a different kind of appeal for tourists who are not primarily interested in culinary tourism. This city is located on Kyushu Island, a region rich in cultural attractions.
Some of the best attractions in Fukuoka include the Tocho-ji Temple, home to a 10-meter-high wooden Buddha, and the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, which showcases the history of the local community. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches.
5. Hakodate
Hakodate is a city worth exploring throughout the year. One of the must-visit spots is Mount Hakodate, which can be accessed by walking, cable car, or car.
After hiking, it is recommended to visit the Hakodate Morning Market, a seafood lover’s paradise. The market also offers a variety of street food options. For souvenirs, visit the Red Brick Warehouses Kanemori, Japan’s first international trade route.
MILA NOVITA | TRAVEL OF PATH | EURONEWS
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