Okayama Airport

Okayama Airport, also known by the charming name Okayama Momotaro Airport in honour of a hero from Japanese folklore, serves as a modern and convenient aerial gateway to Okayama Prefecture and the entire Chugoku region. Opened in 1988, it plays a vital role in the region's transport system, catering to both domestic and international flights. Despite its location in a picturesque mountainous area, the airport is renowned for its well-thought-out logistics and rapid connections to the city centre.

Despite its relatively small size, Okayama Airport offers passengers everything needed for a comfortable journey. There are souvenir shops where you can purchase memorable gifts, restaurants serving local cuisine, and a small duty-free shop. Thanks to the compact layout of the terminals, navigating the airport is effortless, and the convenient bus service, coordinated with flight schedules, allows for quick access to the Okayama and Kurashiki railway stations. This makes it an excellent starting point for exploring both the "Land of Sunshine" — Okayama — and neighbouring regions of Japan.

Below is the essential contact information for Okayama Airport (OKJ), which will help you plan your trip and promptly resolve any questions that may arise.

• Official Website: www.okayama-airport.org. On the website, you will find the current flight schedule, terminal maps, and information about services.
• Information Desk Phone: +81 86-294-5000. This is the main number for obtaining information about airport operations.
• Airport Address: 18-1 Nichioji, Kita Ward, Okayama, 701-1131, Japan.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for communication. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website for enquiries.
• Social Media: Official accounts on international social networks are not maintained. The most reliable and up-to-date data is published on the airport website.
• Lost and Found Information: If items are lost within the terminal building, please contact the airport information centre. If your luggage or personal belongings were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you may contact the main information desk number.

Getting to Okayama Airport (OKJ) from Okayama city centre and surrounding areas is possible via several convenient methods, allowing travellers to choose the best option depending on budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport: Limousine Bus
The most popular and economical way to reach the airport is the Limousine Bus. Special express buses run from the West Exit of JR Okayama Station directly to the airport terminal. The journey usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Buses also depart from Kurashiki Station, which is convenient for tourists staying in this picturesque historical city. The bus schedule is coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, making it a very reliable option. The fare is one of the lowest compared to other modes of transport.

Taxis and Transfers
If you value personal comfort, are travelling with children, or have a large amount of luggage, a taxi ride would be the ideal solution. You can easily find a taxi at the station or order one from your hotel. The travel time from central Okayama is about 30 minutes, but the cost will be significantly higher than the bus. For small groups, a pre-booked transfer or shuttle taxi, which offers a fixed price for the trip, may be advantageous.

Car Rental and Parking
For maximum freedom of movement around the Chugoku region in Japan, it is worth considering car rental. Representatives of all leading rental companies operate at the airport and in the city. The road to the airport is via modern expressways, making the journey fast and pleasant. For those arriving in their own or rented car, Okayama Airport has a spacious car park with zones for short-term and long-term parking at reasonable rates.

Recommendations and Alternatives
The choice of transport depends on your plans. For most tourists, the Limousine Bus offers the best combination of price and convenience. Although Okayama Airport serves many destinations, it is worth keeping other nearby aviation hubs in mind. Depending on your itinerary, larger airports such as Hiroshima Airport or Takamatsu Airport might be convenient. Also, within a radius of about 100 km, you will find Tottori Airport and Tokushima Awaodori Airport.

Okayama Airport (OKJ) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure, as it consists of one main terminal building serving both domestic and international flights. This makes navigation intuitively clear and fast, saving travellers the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and simple. On the first floor, you will find check-in counters and the arrival area for all flights. Car rental desks, tourist information, and bus ticket counters are also located here. The second floor is dedicated entirely to the departure zone: here passengers undergo security screening and passport control (for international destinations), after which they enter the secure area with shops, including Duty Free, and boarding gates. On the third floor, there are restaurants and an observation deck offering a view of the runway.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, the issue of transferring between terminals is not relevant. All zones — check-in, security, departure, and arrival — are located in one building, which significantly saves time and energy.

Completing all formalities generally does not take much time. Thanks to the airport's compact size and well-organised processes, queues for check-in and security are usually shorter than at major airports in Japan. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2 hours, to complete all procedures calmly.

For comfortable navigation, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. All necessary infrastructure — from waiting lounges to cafes — is located compactly. If you have any questions, the staff at the information desk on the first floor are always ready to assist.

The history of Okayama Airport (OKJ) is a story of growth and modernisation, reflecting the development of the entire region. The current airport was opened on 11 March 1988, replacing the old airport which had functioned since 1962 and was located closer to the city centre. The need for a more modern and larger aviation hub capable of accommodating large aircraft and international flights was the main reason for constructing the new complex in the mountainous area north of the city.

Since its opening, the airport has gone through several key stages of expansion. Initially, the runway was 2,000 metres long. By 1993, it was extended to 2,500 metres, allowing the launch of the first regular international flights, specifically to Seoul. The most significant modernisation occurred in 2001, when the runway was extended to 3,000 metres. This achievement opened doors for longer-haul flights and made Okayama Airport an important transport hub in western Japan.

One of the interesting facts in the airport's history is its location. Construction in the hilly terrain required massive engineering works to level the landscape, which was a serious achievement in itself. Today, Okayama Airport not only serves millions of passengers a year but also plays an important role in cargo transport, supporting the region's economic ties with other Asian countries. Meanwhile, the territory of the old airport was not abandoned — it is now the site of a large sports park, popular among local residents.

Okayama Airport (OKJ) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. The terminal is designed so that your stay here is as convenient and pleasant as possible, regardless of the purpose of your trip.

While waiting for departure, you can visit restaurants and cafes serving both Japanese and European cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to try local delicacies. The airport shops offer a wide range of goods, including souvenirs, regional products, cosmetics, and travel essentials. Duty Free shops are particularly popular.

For relaxation in a calmer atmosphere, there are paid premium waiting lounges, where guests are offered drinks, snacks, and newspapers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters can be resolved at bank branches or by using ATMs. Currency exchange points offer convenient service for foreign tourists. In case of necessity, a medical station operates at the airport to provide first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with children: there are special nursing rooms with changing tables and areas for feeding. For travellers with reduced mobility, ramps, accessible toilets, and lifts are provided, and staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, several hotels are located in close proximity, which can be quickly reached by shuttle or taxi. For business travellers, conference rooms or business services in the lounges may be available, allowing for efficient use of time before departure.

Okayama Airport (OKJ) offers passengers an excellent opportunity to experience local cuisine before departure. Most dining establishments are conveniently located on the second floor in the public area (before passing security control), allowing those seeing travellers off to enjoy a meal as well.

For those wishing to have a full lunch and try authentic dishes of Okayama Prefecture, the ideal choice is the Omote-cho Togen restaurant. They serve the famous demi-katsudon (pork cutlet in a thick demi-glace sauce on rice) and barazushi — a local variety of sushi. Another restaurant, Kibi, also specialises in Japanese cuisine, offering sets and traditional dishes in a quiet atmosphere. If you are looking for something quicker but no less tasty, visit the noodle shop Udon-bo Kamon, where you can enjoy a hot bowl of udon.

For a quick snack or a cup of coffee, the Muscat cafe is perfect. Additionally, the ANA FESTA and BLUE SKY shops sell not only souvenirs but also various bento (lunch boxes), sandwiches, and snacks that are convenient to take on board the aircraft. This is a great option for those with little time.

Prices in the airport restaurants can be described as moderate. A full lunch will cost approximately 1,500-2,500 yen, while a snack or noodles will be significantly cheaper. Most establishments are open from early morning until the last flight departs. Regarding special dietary requirements, finding certified Halal or gluten-free dishes can be difficult. Vegetarians should look for vegetable dishes; however, it is always recommended to check the ingredients of sauces and broths with staff, as they are often prepared with a fish or meat base.

To ensure your journey through Okayama Airport goes as comfortably and smoothly as possible, take advantage of our useful tips. These recommendations will help you orient yourself at all stages — from arriving at the airport to boarding the plane.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, we advise arriving at the airport 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Japan — 1.5–2 hours. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security. To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such a service.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Japanese airports are known for their efficiency, but to speed up the screening process, it is worth preparing. Pack all liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml in a single transparent bag. Be ready to take laptops and other large gadgets out of your bag. Remember that portable batteries (power banks) are permitted only in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If you value freedom of movement — choose an aisle seat. Passengers transferring in Okayama should follow the "Connecting Flights" signs. If you are flying from an international flight to a domestic one, you will likely have to pass through passport and customs control, collect your luggage, and check it in again.

Customs Regulations. Strict customs rules apply in Japan. Familiarise yourself in advance with the list of items prohibited for import, especially regarding food products (meat, fruit) and plants. To speed up the process, you can fill out immigration and customs declarations online in advance via the Visit Japan Web service.

Saving Money and Flight Delays. To save money, book your transfer from the airport in advance and buy souvenirs in the city rather than at the airport. In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on the departure boards and contact your airline representative to clarify details about compensation (drinks, food, hotel). The airport has cafes, shops, and free Wi-Fi to brighten up the wait.