Coming to Japan is a childhood dream for many Western travellers. Unusual and mysterious, historical and futuristic, Japan is a country of contrasts that will challenge all our expectations.

But before anything else, it's important to know how to get there.

Entering Japan by air

What are Japan's main entry points?

Narita and Haneda airports are the main gateways to Japan.

Approximately 60 km from central Tokyo, Narita International Airport welcomes the majority of international passengers. The sense of discovery begins the moment you step into the airport. It features two railway stations operated by Keisei and Skyliner. These lines connect Narita to the capital in less than 40 minutes.

Tokyo-Haneda International Airport serves as the primary hub for domestic flights of Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. It handles some international flights from Asia.

Kansai International Airport, near Osaka, also receives international flights. It's an excellent choice for travellers who wish to begin exploring Japan from the western regions or the Kansai area.

Which airlines offer France-Japan flights?

Several airlines connect France and Japan. However, the most popular among travellers are the following:

Air France

Air France offers direct flights between Paris Charles de Gaulle and several major Japanese cities, including Tokyo (Narita and Haneda) and Osaka. The airline is renowned for its quality service and convenient schedules, making it a preferred choice for French travellers. Air France also maintains partnerships with Japanese carriers such as Japan Airlines for connections to more distant destinations.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL) is one of Japan's leading airlines and also offers direct flights between Paris and Tokyo. Known for its exceptional Japanese hospitality and impeccable service, JAL is an excellent option for those seeking an authentic experience from the moment they board.

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

ANA is another major Japanese airline that operates direct flights between Paris and Tokyo. Renowned for its punctuality and quality in-flight service, ANA provides a comfortable flying experience with varied options in terms of cabin classes and comfort levels.

How much does a flight to Japan cost?

The cost of a flight to Japan varies considerably depending on the time of year, airline, and booking timing. Generally, the earlier you book, the more affordable the prices. Travellers should also consider their chosen class: economy, premium, or business.

Round-trip flight

A round-trip flight is generally the most popular and economical option for travellers. Depending on the season, a round-trip ticket between Paris and Tokyo can cost between €600 and €1,200 in economy class. Fares increase during peak seasons, such as summer or Christmas holidays, where prices can exceed €1,500. To secure the best rates, it is advisable to book several months in advance and monitor promotional offers.

One-way ticket

A one-way ticket can be an interesting option for those planning an extended stay in Japan or considering continuing their journey to other destinations. However, one-way tickets are often more expensive than round-trip fares. Prices for a one-way ticket to Japan start around €400, but can easily climb to €800 or more, depending on the season and flight availability. This can be a wise choice if you have flexibility in your itinerary or are looking to extend your stay in Japan.

How long does a flight to Japan take?

Flight time between France and Japan depends primarily on whether you have a stopover or not.

Direct flight duration from Paris

A direct flight from Paris to Tokyo lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours on average. This duration may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and the destination airport. This is the fastest option to reach Japan, allowing travellers to maximise their time on the ground without the hassle of stopovers.

Flight duration with stopover from Paris

If you opt for a flight with a stopover, the total journey time can range between 14 and 18 hours, or even longer, depending on the stopover duration and final destination. Common stopover cities include Doha, Dubai, or Helsinki, which can serve as interesting breaks during the long journey.

When is the cheapest time to visit Japan?

Travelling to Japan on a budget requires strategic planning. The least expensive period to visit the Land of the Rising Sun is generally outside school holidays and Japanese festival seasons. The months of January to March, excluding the New Year period, are often the most affordable, with lower fares due to lower tourist traffic.

Flight comparison tools and price alerts can be valuable resources for finding the best deals. Additionally, booking a flight midweek rather than at weekends can sometimes result in additional savings. While these tips can help reduce costs, it's always wise to keep in mind that prices can fluctuate and it is therefore essential to remain flexible with your travel dates.

You can also access Japanese territory without travelling by air. The country is connected to South Korea, China, and Russia by ferries.

From South Korea, several maritime routes serve the Japanese archipelago from Busan to the international terminal of Hakata port, the international terminal of Shimonoseki, or the international ferry terminal of Osaka port.

From China, departures are from Shanghai to the international ferry terminal of Osaka port.

The connection with Russia is between the Russian island of Sakhalin and the island of Hokkaido. Departures occur twice weekly between August and mid-September.