Counting the Airports in Japan
Japan is a country with a high degree of economic development, and its transportation system is one of the most advanced in the world. Air travel plays a crucial role in connecting different regions of Japan and facilitating international travel. As such, the country has invested heavily in developing an extensive airport infrastructure that can meet the demands of its growing economy and population.
Understanding Aviation in Japan
Aviation in Japan has a rich history. The country’s first airport, Haneda Airport, opened in Tokyo in 1931. Since then, Japan has built a vast network of airports that serve both domestic and international flights. Japan is also home to some of the world’s leading aviation technology companies, such as Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation and Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
The Importance of Airports in Japan
Airports play a significant role in the Japanese economy, with millions of people relying on air travel for work, business, and leisure. The country’s airports facilitate the movement of goods and people and provide a significant source of employment. Japan’s airports are also an essential part of the country’s disaster response and rescue efforts, as seen during the 2011 earthquake and tsunami when airports played a critical role in delivering aid and supplies to affected areas.
How Many Airports are in Japan?
As of 2021, there are over 100 airports in Japan, including international, domestic, and regional airports. These airports are managed by various agencies, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism and the local governments of each prefecture.
Breakdown by Type: Japan’s Airports
Japan’s airports can be categorized into three types: international airports, domestic airports, and regional airports. International airports, such as Narita and Haneda in Tokyo and Kansai in Osaka, serve flights to and from other countries. Domestic airports, such as Itami in Osaka and Chitose in Hokkaido, serve flights within Japan. Regional airports, such as Yamagata and Fukui, serve smaller areas and provide local transportation services.
The Largest Airports in Japan
The largest airport in Japan is Narita International Airport, located in Chiba Prefecture, which serves as the primary hub for international flights to and from Tokyo. Other large airports include Haneda International Airport, Osaka International Airport, and Kansai International Airport.
The Busiest Airports in Japan
Haneda International Airport is the busiest airport in Japan, with over 87 million passengers in 2019. Narita International Airport is the second busiest, with over 42 million passengers in 2019. Kansai International Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport also see significant passenger traffic.
Regional Airports in Japan
Japan’s regional airports serve smaller areas and provide domestic flight services to nearby cities. These airports play an essential role in connecting rural areas to larger cities and facilitating local tourism. Some of the notable regional airports in Japan include Hokkaido’s Asahikawa Airport, Kyushu’s Kumamoto Airport, and Kagoshima Airport.
Japan’s Smallest Airports
Some of Japan’s smallest airports serve remote islands and provide transportation services to smaller cities and towns. These airports may have limited facilities, and flights may be infrequent. Examples of small airports in Japan include Oki Airport in Shimane Prefecture and Amami Airport in Kagoshima Prefecture.
The Future of Airports in Japan
The Japanese government has announced plans to expand some of the country’s airports to meet the growing demand for air travel. The expansion of Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport aims to increase their capacity and improve their efficiency. Japan is also exploring the use of new technologies, such as drones and electric planes, to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainability in the aviation sector.
Conclusion: Exploring Japan’s Airports
Japan’s airport infrastructure is extensive and plays a critical role in connecting different regions of the country and facilitating international travel. With over 100 airports, each serving a unique purpose, the country has developed a sophisticated network of transportation hubs that support its growing economy and population. As Japan continues to invest in its airport infrastructure, the future of air travel in Japan looks bright.
References and Further Reading
- Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. (2021). "Airports in Japan." Retrieved from
- Japan Airlines. (2021). "About Aviation in Japan." Retrieved from
- The Japan Times. (2021). "Japan to expand Haneda, Narita airports to meet demand." Retrieved from
