Fukushima Airport

Fukushima Airport, often referred to as the "Air Gateway to Tohoku," is not merely a transport hub but a true landmark of the region, situated amidst picturesque mountains. This cosy and compact airport is renowned for its unique atmosphere: it is the birthplace of the creator of the famous hero Ultraman, so the terminal is literally infused with the spirit of fantastic adventures. For travellers, it serves as the ideal starting point to the hot springs, historic castles, and fruit orchards for which this part of Japan is so famous.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

• Home of Ultraman: The main "highlight" of the airport is the ubiquitous presence of the Japanese superhero Ultraman. Huge statues of characters are installed in the terminal, a themed shop is open, and exhibitions are held, delighting both children and adult pop-culture fans.
• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to its small size, completing all formalities takes mere minutes. There are no long queues or the hustle and bustle typical of capital city hubs, making the start of your journey as relaxed as possible.
• Scenic Views: The observation deck on the third floor offers a magnificent panoramic view of the runway against a backdrop of mountainous landscape, which is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves turn.
• Convenient Access to Resorts: The airport is strategically located for those planning to visit the Inawashiro ski resorts, the historic city of Aizu-Wakamatsu, or the famous fruit farms of the "Fruit Line."

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Fukushima Airport (FKS). If you have any questions, you can always contact airport representatives directly.

• Official Website: You can find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport rules on the official website: www.fks-ab.co.jp. The site is available in Japanese and English.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +81 247-57-1111. Please note the possible time difference and the cost of international calls.
• Airport Address: Hishida, Sukagawa, Fukushima 962-0401, Japan.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on its official pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost luggage during a flight, you should contact your airline's representative office directly. For items lost within the terminal, please contact the airport information service at the phone number listed above.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the general information service at +81 247-57-1111.

There are several ways to get to Fukushima Airport, located in Fukushima Prefecture, depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The most popular and economical option is the limousine bus. These comfortable buses run regularly between the airport and key railway stations in the region, such as Koriyama and Fukushima. The journey from Koriyama Station takes about 40 minutes, and from Fukushima Station approximately 1 hour. Ticket prices range from 1,100 to 2,000 yen. It is worth noting that there is no direct train or metro connection to the terminal, so the bus is the most convenient way to reach the airport by public transport.

If you value comfort and are travelling with a lot of luggage or with family, a taxi or pre-booked transfer would be an excellent solution. A taxi ride from central areas, for example, from Koriyama Station, will take about 35-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus — be prepared to pay from 7,000 to 10,000 yen or more. The advantage of a taxi is the "door-to-door" service and not being dependent on a schedule. It is recommended to check the approximate cost with the driver before starting the trip or use taxi-hailing apps popular in Japan.

For those planning to actively explore the scenic Fukushima Prefecture, car rental would be the most convenient option. Representative offices of well-known rental companies operate at the airport and in major cities. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement. The road to the airport is well-signposted, and you can easily reach it via expressways. Fukushima Airport features a spacious car park where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long periods.

In summary, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. The bus is the best choice for budget-conscious travellers. A taxi ensures maximum comfort, while a rental car offers freedom of movement. Important tip: always check the current bus schedule on the official airport website or the transport company's site before your trip, as it may change depending on the season and day of the week.

Fukushima Airport (FKS) is a modern and compact aviation hub, making navigation simple and convenient for travellers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its well-thought-out structure, all pre-flight and post-flight formalities are completed quickly here without unnecessary hassle.

The terminal structure is intuitive and organised by floors:

• 1st Floor: Here you will find flight check-in counters (separate for domestic and international lines) and the arrivals area. After retrieving luggage, passengers exit into the general hall where they are met by greeters, and where the information desk, car rental counters, and exits to bus stops and taxis are located.
• 2nd Floor: This is the departures area. After checking in on the first floor, passengers proceed here to go through security screening. For international flights, passport control is also located here. After all formalities, travellers enter the secure area with boarding gates, duty-free shops (for international destinations), souvenir shops, and restaurants.
• 3rd Floor: Located on this floor is the free observation deck, offering a beautiful view of the runway. This is an excellent place to pass the time while waiting for a flight and to watch the aircraft.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, transfers between terminals are not required. All zones are located in one building, and movement between floors is facilitated by lifts and escalators. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by floors, eliminating confusion. Due to the airport's compact size, check-in and security screening usually take little time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international one to comfortably complete all procedures. Signs within the terminal building are in Japanese and English, significantly easing navigation for international tourists.

The history of Fukushima Airport (FKS) is a story of development and resilience. Officially opened in 1993, it was built with the aim of improving transport accessibility to the scenic Tohoku region in Japan and stimulating local tourism and the economy. Initially, the airport focused primarily on domestic flights, connecting the prefecture with major cities such as Osaka and Sapporo.

A key and tragic moment in the airport's history was the events of March 2011. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the airport's infrastructure remained largely undamaged, allowing it to play a crucial role in disaster relief efforts. It was rapidly transformed into a central hub for humanitarian missions, receiving transport aircraft from the Japan Self-Defense Forces and international rescue teams. This chapter of history demonstrated the strategic importance of FKS not only as a civilian facility but also as a vital node in emergency situations.

Throughout its existence, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation to enhance passenger comfort and meet modern aviation standards. Although it is not one of the largest in the country, its infrastructure has always been maintained at a high level. The runway is capable of accommodating medium-haul aircraft, allowing it to serve not only regular domestic flights but also international charter flights.

One of the most surprising facts about Fukushima Airport is its unofficial nickname, the "Ultraman Airport." Statues and exhibitions dedicated to Ultraman, the cult Japanese superhero, are installed in the terminal building. This is because the creator of this universe, Eiji Tsuburaya, was born in the city of Sukagawa, where the airport is located. This unique feature turns an ordinary wait for a flight into a small adventure for fans of Japanese pop culture and families with children.

Fukushima Airport (FKS) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait. It is a modern and well-equipped aviation hub focused on the needs of travellers.

In the terminal, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can try local Japanese cuisine or simply have a cup of coffee. For those wishing to shop, there are stores offering souvenirs, travel goods, and regional products. Duty-free shops are also available.

Comfortable waiting areas are provided for relaxation. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the paid lounge services, offering a quieter atmosphere and additional amenities. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will ensure you stay connected.

Financial services are represented by ATMs and currency exchange counters. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical station for first aid. For travellers with small children, a nursing room is equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment.

The airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are provided, and specially equipped toilets and ramps are available. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, which can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle. For business travellers, conference rooms or business corners may be available for meetings or work.

At Fukushima Airport (FKS), passengers will find several dining options conveniently located in the main terminal. Despite the airport's compact size, you can have a full lunch or a quick snack before departure.

For a substantial lunch or dinner, head to the Kitchen Abies restaurant on the third floor. Its menu features traditional Japanese cuisine and local specialities. This is a great chance to try the famous ramen from Kitakata city or other seasonal delicacies of the region. A meal here will cost on average 1,500–2,500 yen. The establishment is usually open from 9:00 to 19:00, however, it is recommended to check opening hours as they may be adjusted according to the flight schedule.

If you are short on time, a coffee shop operates on the first floor of the terminal. Here you can order coffee, light snacks, sandwiches, and fresh pastries. This is an ideal option for a quick bite. Additionally, in the souvenir shops, you can purchase ready-made lunch boxes (bento) — an excellent solution for taking food on board.

Important tip: Almost all dining establishments at Fukushima Airport are located in the public area (landside), i.e., before passing pre-flight security checks. In the secure area (airside), after security control, the selection is extremely limited and typically restricted to vending machines. Therefore, if you plan to have a full meal, it is better to do so before proceeding to the boarding gates.

Passengers with specific dietary preferences (such as vegetarian or Halal considerations) should clarify ingredients with staff in advance, as specialised menus may not be available. In any case, numerous vending machines located throughout the terminal provide 24-hour access to a variety of drinks and snacks.

Travelling through Fukushima Airport can be a simple and pleasant start or end to your adventure in Japan. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use these helpful tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This will give you enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening without unnecessary haste. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website if this option is available.

Security Check: Be prepared to present your passport and boarding pass. During screening, you must remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices, as well as liquid containers, from your carry-on luggage. Fukushima Airport is not as large as capital city hubs, so queues here are usually shorter, making the process more comfortable.

Seat Selection: Try to select your seat in advance during online check-in. If you want to enjoy picturesque views of the Tohoku region's mountain landscapes during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort on short flights and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours, an aisle seat is ideal.

Carry-on Luggage: Remember the universal rules: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Rules may differ slightly depending on the airline, so it is always better to clarify information in advance.

Money-Saving Tips: To save money, consider getting to or from the airport by public transport — this is often cheaper than a taxi. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security. You can also prepare light snacks in advance to avoid spending extra in airport cafes.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, carefully follow the "Transfers" signs. When transferring internationally to a domestic flight, you will likely need to go through passport and customs control, collect your luggage, and check it in again. Clarify this procedure with your airline in advance.

Customs Control upon Arrival: Fill out the customs declaration form in advance, which is usually distributed on the plane. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration. Japan has strict rules on importing food products, plants, and animals, so it is better to refrain from carrying them to avoid problems.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for the latest information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. There are cafes and shops in the airport where you can pass the time while waiting for departure.