Odate Noshiro Airport

Odate Noshiro Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a truly cozy gateway to the picturesque north of Akita Prefecture. Located amidst the green hills of Kitaakita City, it boasts a feature unique to Japan: it is the only airport officially combined with a "Michi-no-Eki" (Roadside Station). Here, travelers can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of local hospitality, purchase farm-fresh products and souvenirs even before checking in for their flight, while the terminal interiors, crafted using the famous Akita cedar, create a sense of warmth and harmony with nature.

Airport Features and Advantages:

• Unique "Michi-no-Eki" Status: This is the first airport in Japan to also function as a roadside rest station. This means there is an excellent selection of local goods, fresh vegetables, and sweets available not only to air passengers but also to those touring by car.
• Home of the Akita Inu: The airport actively promotes the region's image as the homeland of this famous dog breed. On the 8th, 18th, and 28th of every month during morning hours, you can meet real Akita Inu dogs here, "greeting" arriving passengers.
• Access to Nature: The terminal serves as a convenient starting point for trips to the UNESCO World Heritage Site — the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range, as well as Lake Towada.
• Free Parking: Unlike many major airports, spacious free parking is provided here for passengers, making it convenient for those traveling around the Tohoku region by car.

Below you will find contact information for Odate Noshiro Airport to help you plan your trip and address any potential questions.

• Official Website: www.onj-airterminal.com (available in Japanese).
• Information Desk Phone: +81 186-62-5330. Please note the potential time zone difference when calling.
• Airport Address: 21-146 Karamushidai, Wakigami, Kitaakita, Akita Prefecture 018-3454, Japan.
• Email: An official email address for contacting the airport is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for urgent inquiries.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active official pages on popular social networks. It is best to check the official website for current information.
• Lost and Found: For items left in the terminal, please contact the airport information desk. If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact your airline's representative immediately.
• Passenger Support: For inquiries and assistance with general questions, please use the airport information desk phone number.

Getting to Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ), located in the scenic region of Kitaakita, is straightforward thanks to several convenient transport options. Although the airport primarily serves domestic flights, it is well-integrated into Akita Prefecture's transport system, offering options for every budget and preference.

Public Transport is the most popular and economical method. The main means of transport are shuttle buses (often called "limousine buses"), which connect the airport with key points in the region. Routes run to Takanosu and Odate train stations, as well as Noshiro city. The bus schedule is usually synchronized with flight arrivals and departures, making them very convenient for passengers. The bus ride to Takanosu Station takes about 15 minutes, and to Odate about 50 minutes. There is no direct rail connection to the airport; however, you can take a train to the nearest station, Takanosu (JR Ou Main Line), and transfer to a bus or taxi to the terminal from there.

Taxis and Transfers offer maximum comfort and speed. A taxi ride from the central part of Kitaakita (e.g., the Takanosu area) to the airport will take approximately 15-20 minutes. This is the fastest, albeit the most expensive option. In Japan, "ainori taxis" — shared taxi minivans that can be booked in advance — are also common. They cost less than a private taxi but more than a bus, representing a good compromise between price and convenience.

Car Rental is the ideal choice for those planning to explore the beauties of Akita Prefecture on their own. There are counters for several rental companies at Odate Noshiro Airport. Having a car offers freedom of movement and allows you to visit remote nature parks and hot springs. Please remember that to rent a car in Japan, most international drivers will require an International Driving Permit (IDP). A huge advantage for motorists is that parking on the airport grounds is completely free, making this option even more attractive.

Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ) is a small and highly convenient regional airport in Japan, serving the northern part of Akita Prefecture, including the city of Kitaakita. Its structure is extremely simple and intuitive, making travel through it as comfortable as possible.

The airport has only one passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. The terminal building is compact, typically two stories high, and it is virtually impossible to get lost. On the first floor, you will find check-in counters, the arrival area with baggage claim, a tourist information center, and car rental offices. On the second floor is the departure area: here you will pass through security screening and enter a small waiting lounge with boarding gates. The second floor also typically houses a souvenir shop, where you can buy local delicacies and goods, and a café.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to worry about transfers between buildings — everything is within walking distance under one roof. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by floors, eliminating confusion. Navigation is very simple thanks to clear signs in Japanese and English.

A huge advantage of Odate Noshiro Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Flight check-in and security screening take minimal time due to the low passenger volume. Generally, there are almost no queues here. For a domestic flight, arriving at the airport 45-60 minutes before departure is sufficient — this will be more than enough time to check your luggage and pass through control without rushing.

Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ) is a relatively young but strategically important transport hub in the north of Honshu Island. Its history began on July 18, 1998, when it was officially opened for passenger service. The primary goal of constructing the airport was to improve transport accessibility for Akita Prefecture, particularly the city of Kitaakita and surrounding areas known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Since its inception, the airport has become a key element in the development of the regional economy and tourism. A major stage in its development was the establishment of regular air service with Japan's largest cities. Throughout its history, Odate Noshiro Airport has been served primarily by All Nippon Airways (ANA), which operates flights to Tokyo's Haneda Airport, ensuring a convenient link between the region, the capital, and the rest of the world.

Over its history, the airport has not undergone massive reconstructions, as it was originally designed as a modern and efficient complex. Its main role lies not in breaking passenger traffic records, but in consistently providing access to iconic places such as the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Thus, the history of the airport is a history of successfully promoting tourism development in one of the most picturesque parts of the country.

Among interesting facts from the airport's history, its name is worth noting, as it combines the two major cities it serves — Odate and Noshiro. Furthermore, the airport proudly highlights its connection to local culture: Odate is considered the birthplace of the famous Akita Inu dog breed. Therefore, do not be surprised to encounter statues and souvenirs in the terminal dedicated to these loyal and noble animals, which have become the unofficial symbol of the region.

Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ) is a compact and modern regional airport offering passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its small size, it is well-organized and oriented toward the needs of travelers.

Dining and Shopping: The airport terminal houses a restaurant where you can taste local cuisine, including the famous Hinai-jidori chicken. It is an excellent place to have a meal before departure. There is also a souvenir shop featuring a wide assortment of local products, sake, and traditional crafts of Akita Prefecture. This is a wonderful opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones.

Lounges and Amenities: A spacious and bright general waiting hall with comfortable seating is equipped for passengers. There are no specialized VIP lounges at the airport, but the general atmosphere is calm and conducive to relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and there are power outlets for charging electronic devices.

Additional Services: ATMs are installed at the airport; however, currency exchange services are limited, so it is recommended to arrange for cash exchange in major cities beforehand. A nursing room is provided for passengers with children, and a barrier-free environment, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, has been created for travelers with reduced mobility. If necessary, you can ask airport staff for assistance. There is also a first aid station in the terminal.

Accommodation and Business Services: There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but travelers can easily find accommodation options in nearby cities such as Kitaakita and Odate. Specialized conference rooms or business centers are not provided at the airport, but the quiet environment in the waiting hall allows for working on a laptop while waiting for a flight.

Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ) is a small regional airport, so all main dining options are concentrated in the main terminal before the security checkpoint. Despite the compact size, you can have a full lunch here or a quick snack before departure while getting acquainted with the local cuisine of Akita Prefecture.

The main place for lunch is the Port One restaurant, located on the second floor of the terminal. It offers a good view of the runway. This is an ideal option for those who have time before their flight. The menu offers a good selection of Japanese dishes, and it is especially worth paying attention to local delicacies. Be sure to try Kiritanpo — grilled rice sticks served in soup, or the famous thin Inaniwa Udon noodles. The menu also frequently features dishes made from the local Hinai-jidori chicken breed.

For a quick snack or to buy food to go, the souvenir shop, usually located on the same second floor, is best. Here you can find packed lunches (bento), sandwiches, local sweets, and various snacks. This is a convenient option if you are in a hurry. Additionally, numerous vending machines offering a wide range of hot and cold beverages are placed throughout the terminal.

It is important to remember that all cafes and shops are located in the public area (landside), before passing through security. After security control (airside), dining options are typically limited to vending machines with drinks. The opening hours of the restaurant and shop are tied to the flight schedule: they open in the morning before the first departure and close after the last plane departs. Prices can be described as average for Japanese airports.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding specialized vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes in a small airport can be difficult. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients directly with restaurant staff or, to be completely sure, bring food with you. Travelers requiring Halal meals should also check ingredients carefully as local recipes may use traditional seasonings.

To ensure your journey through Odate Noshiro Airport goes smoothly, take advantage of our tips. The airport serves the city of Kitaakita and surrounding regions, acting as an important transport hub in Akita Prefecture, Japan. Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary stress and make your trip more pleasant.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Odate Noshiro Airport is a small regional airport, so long queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive approximately 1.5 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing. Many airlines offer online check-in, which can significantly save your time.

Passing Control. The screening procedure is standard. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and identification. You will need to remove laptops and other large electronics, as well as your bag of liquids, from your carry-on luggage. Since this is a domestic airport, customs and passport control for domestic flights are not conducted here — you will pass through them at your first international arrival airport in Japan.

What to Pack in Carry-on. You are allowed to take liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, in your carry-on. Sharp objects (knives, scissors with long blades), flammable substances, and other dangerous items are prohibited. We recommend always keeping documents, money, chargers, and necessary medications with you.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of Akita Prefecture, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those planning to get up frequently during the flight. Most flights from Odate Noshiro operate to Tokyo (Haneda Airport). If you have a transfer planned at a major hub, allow at least 2-3 hours to change terminals, go through security again, and board the next flight, especially if transferring from a domestic to an international flight.

How to Save Money. To save money, book tickets in advance. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher, so you can bring light snacks (non-liquid) with you. To save time, use online check-in and, if possible, travel with carry-on luggage only.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. They will provide current information and explain further actions — rebooking the ticket or potential compensation. As entertainment options may be limited at the small Odate Noshiro Airport, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded movies on your device.