This Airline Just Made It Easier to Connect Across Japan with Free Domestic Connecting Flights

Japan Airlines has rolled out complimentary domestic flights for international passengers, making it easier to travel to the country’s diverse prefectures.

The carrier will offer complimentary domestic flights to any destination within Japan when travelers book an international flight to the country, according to JAL. To take advantage, the domestic connection must be on the same reservation as the international flight.

“Explore Japan’s domestic cities with Japan Airlines’ extensive domestic network, serving 64 airports and 133 routes (including codeshare flights) within Japan,” JAL wrote about the offer. “There is so much more to discover in Japan!”

The free domestic flights are available to travelers from several countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and beyond, with plans to extend it to other nations later in September.

Travelers from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and China, however, must pay a $100 stopover fee if they stay in their first destination in Japan for more than 24 hours. 

The free domestic connections also come with free checked luggage: passengers in economy and premium economy can check up to two bags weighing up to 50 pounds each, and passengers in first class or business class can check up to three bags weighing up to 70 pounds each.

JAL, which is part of the Oneworld Alliance along with American Airlines and Alaska Airlines, was named one of the best international carriers in the world by Travel + Leisure readers this year. The airline is also known for having one of the most luxurious economy seats with plenty of room and delicious perks like Japanese Soba noodles and sake on hand.

Beyond flying, travelers can also connect to major cities in Japan through its extensive and efficient high-speed bullet trains, which criss-cross the country at speeds of more than 200 mph. Travelers can purchase rail passes in increments of seven, 14, or 21 days.