Yamaguchi Ube Airport & Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport

Ube / Iwakuni

There are two gateways to Yamaguchi, one in the east and one in the west

The long shape of Yamaguchi features two airports, one in the east and one in the west. In the west you’ll find Yamaguchi Ube Airport which is somewhat close to Kyushu, and in the east you will find Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport, which is close to Hiroshima. Both locations are a one hour and thirty minute flight from Tokyo. If you’re planning on coming to Yamaguchi, first choose the airport closest to your destination. For Shimonoseki and Akiyoshidai, use Yamaguchi Ube Airport. For the Iwakuni area, use Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport. Hagi is about the same distance from either airport.

International flights also leave from Yamaguchi Ube Airport

Yamaguchi Ube Airport is the gateway to the skies for citizens of Yamaguchi. There are flights connecting to Haneda in Tokyo, and international flights departing to and arriving from South Korea. There are over 1,500 free parking spaces on the airport grounds facing the Seto Inland Sea, and if your timing is right, you may see the blowfish lantern in the airport. For souvenirs you’ll find Hagi’s local beer Chonmage Beer (“chonmage” is the traditional Samurai topknot), the world famous Japanese sake “Dassai”, and other items that are rare even for Japanese people. If you have the time, climb to the top of the observation deck to enjoy the majestic scenery.

Opened in 2012, Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport is a new travel hub

Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport first opened in 2012. There are eight flights a day connecting to Haneda in Tokyo. The building is notable for its glass walls where you can see aircraft right from the entrance. The best thing about the airport is its quick access to Kintai Bridge. Take the direct bus and you can arrive at Kintai Bridge in 30 minutes. This is also a convenient location if you plan on going further to Hiroshima, and a new gateway to the sky to begin your travels in Yamaguchi.