Okushiri Airport

Okushiri Airport (OIR) is not merely a runway, but the aerial gateway to the secluded and picturesque island of Okushiri in Japan. For many travellers, their introduction to this amazing place, renowned for its nature and the freshest seafood, begins right here. This compact airport plays a key role in the life of the island, connecting it with Hokkaido and revealing its beauties to guests.

Okushiri Airport is an example of how small size can become an advantage. There is no hustle and bustle or long queues typical of major aviation hubs here. Flight check-in and security controls take minimal time, allowing you to start your island adventure almost immediately after landing. The airport offers a basic set of services, including a small waiting lounge and airline counters, which fully meets the needs of travellers arriving on the island.

The main asset of the airport is its strategic location and indispensable role in the island's transport system. It ensures stable connections with the city of Hakodate, from where you can continue your journey across Japan. Furthermore, during landing and take-off, the aircraft windows offer breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan coast and the island's green landscapes, which in itself is an excellent start or finish to a trip.

When planning a trip to Okushiri, it is useful to have the local airport contacts at hand. Below is the essential contact information for passengers of Okushiri Airport (OIR).

• Official Website: At the moment, the airport does not have its own website, but up-to-date flight information can be found on airline websites, such as Hokkaido Air System (HAC), or on general travel portals for Japan.
• Enquiry Service Telephone: +81 1397-3-2020. Please note that communication will likely take place in Japanese.
• Airport Address: Aza Aonae, Okushiri, Okushiri District, Hokkaido 043-0414, Japan.
• Email: There is no separate email for general enquiries. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding the loss or damage of checked baggage, you should contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. If you have left personal belongings in the terminal building, please contact the airport enquiry service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: To resolve any issues related to your stay and service at the airport, please use the main enquiry service telephone number.

Getting to Okushiri Airport (OIR) from any point on the island is quite simple due to its compact size. Travellers have access to several convenient transport options, allowing them to plan their trip according to their budget and preferences.

Public transport on the island is represented by local buses. This is the most economical way to get to the airport. Routes connect the air harbour with the main settlements of Okushiri. It is important to note that bus schedules are often coordinated with flight arrival and departure times, so it is recommended to check them in advance. The journey from the central part of the island will take about 20-30 minutes.

Taxi or private transfer is the fastest and most comfortable option. A taxi ride from the centre of the island to the airport will take approximately 15-20 minutes. This is an excellent choice for travellers with bulky luggage or those who value their time. You can order a car by phone or find one at designated stands. The cost will be significantly higher than a bus ride, but it ensures maximum convenience.

Car rental is the ideal solution for those who want not only to get to the airport but also to freely explore the island throughout their holiday in Japan. Car rental desks are located both at the airport itself and in the town. There is a car park at the terminal where you can leave the car for a short or long term. This gives complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way.

Okushiri Airport (OIR) is a small regional airport, and its structure is extremely simple and understandable for any traveller. You will not have to worry about complex navigation, as there is only one passenger terminal operating here, which serves both arriving and departing flights.

The terminal is a compact single-story building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is intuitive: upon entering, you will immediately see the check-in counters and the departure waiting area. The arrival area with the baggage claim belt is located right there, but in a separate part of the hall. Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant.

Flight check-in and security screening procedures at Okushiri Airport are very quick thanks to the low passenger flow. Usually, this takes no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive in advance, following the rules of your airline.

The main recommendation for navigation is simply to follow the few signs available. In such a compact space, it is practically impossible to get lost. The entire path from the building entrance to the boarding gate will take you just a few minutes, making travel through Okushiri Airport as comfortable as possible and eliminating the stress typical of major aviation hubs.

The history of Okushiri Airport (OIR) is inextricably linked with the dramatic events that the island has endured. The first air harbour on Okushiri Island was opened in 1974. It was a small airfield with a runway only 800 metres long, designed to service propeller aircraft and ensure communication with the main part of Japan. For almost two decades, it performed its humble but vital function for local residents.

A key and tragic moment in the airport's history was July 12, 1993. On this day, a powerful earthquake occurred off the coast of the island, causing a devastating tsunami. The disaster claimed many lives and caused colossal damage to infrastructure. The airport itself was practically unharmed and instantly transformed into a strategic centre for rescue and humanitarian operations. It was here that Japan Self-Defense Forces aircraft arrived, delivering rescuers, medics, and food, and evacuating the wounded. The role of the airport in those days cannot be overestimated — it became a true lifeline for the stricken island.

This tragedy revealed an acute need for a more modern and powerful air harbour capable of receiving larger aircraft for effective response to emergency situations and for the future development of tourism, which was intended to help the island recover. A decision was made not simply to reconstruct the old one, but to build a completely new airport in a different, safer location.

The new Okushiri Airport, which operates today, was ceremoniously opened in July 2004. Its runway was extended to 1,500 metres, allowing it to receive jet aircraft. Thus, the modern airport is a direct legacy of the events of 1993 and a symbol of the island's revival. An interesting fact: the site where the old airfield was located has been turned into a memorial park, reminding visitors of the tragedy and the resilience of the local people.

Okushiri Airport (OIR) is a compact regional airport that provides passengers with essential amenities necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. Given its size, the range of services here is basic but functional.

Inside the terminal building, there is a small cafe where you can order light snacks and beverages, as well as a shop. It sells local souvenirs, which will be a great reminder of your trip to the island, and travel necessities. The selection here is not as large as in major airports, but sufficient to grab a bite and buy a keepsake.

There is a general lounge for waiting for flights. There are no VIP lounges at the airport. However, passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. There are also power outlets in the waiting area for charging mobile phones and other gadgets.

It is important to note that Okushiri Airport has no bank branches, currency exchange points, or ATMs. It is recommended to ensure you have a sufficient amount of cash in advance, before arriving on the island. In case of an emergency, first aid can be provided at the airport, but there is no full-service medical centre.

The airport is adapted for passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. There are specially equipped toilets and nursing rooms. The barrier-free environment allows for easy movement around the terminal in a wheelchair. If you require additional assistance, for example, when boarding the aircraft, be sure to inform your airline in advance.

There are no hotels, conference rooms, or business centres on the airport grounds. The nearest hotels and guesthouses are located in other parts of the island, a few minutes' drive from the airport. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the tourist season.

Okushiri Airport (OIR) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited, but it allows you to get acquainted with local cuisine before departure.

The main and, in fact, the only place for a full meal is the restaurant located in the main terminal building before the security checkpoint (landside). This establishment is ideal for those who want to eat at a leisurely pace before checking in for a flight or after arrival. Its opening hours are generally tied to the schedule of the few flights, so it is worth checking information on site.

The main pride of the menu is dishes made from the freshest local seafood, for which Okushiri Island is famous. Be sure to try something with sea urchin (uni) if you are travelling during the season. In addition, the menu usually includes standard dishes for Japan, such as ramen, curry with rice, or set meals (teishoku). Please note that ingredients may vary, so do enquire if you have specific dietary requirements. For a quick snack, the airport also has vending machines with drinks and snacks, and you can find packaged local sweets in the souvenir shop.

Unfortunately, specialised menus for vegetarians, vegans, or people with gluten intolerance are a great rarity in such small regional airports. The choice for them will be extremely limited, so if you have strict dietary requirements, it is better to bring suitable food with you. The price range in the restaurant can be described as average for Okushiri and similar airports in Japan.

Planning a trip through Okushiri Airport can be simple and convenient if you know a few nuances. Here are some tips that will make your journey through the air gateway of Okushiri Island as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time: Okushiri Airport is a small regional hub, so there are no crowds like in megacities. As a rule, arriving 1–1.5 hours before departure is sufficient for domestic flights. This time is enough to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control.

Check-in and Security: Procedures at small airports usually go faster. Nevertheless, it is always useful to check in for your flight online if your airline provides such an option. At security screening, be ready to present electronic devices separately and remember the rules for carrying liquids.

Seat Selection: Flying to or from the island offers breathtaking views. Try to choose a window seat to enjoy the panorama of the coast and the Sea of Japan during take-off and landing.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules for flights within Japan apply here as well. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous items are prohibited. Always check the hand luggage and baggage allowances on your airline's website to avoid extra charges.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connection at another Japanese airport, check at registration whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to your final destination. In most cases on domestic flights, this happens, but it is better to be safe.

Customs Control: Okushiri Airport serves mainly domestic flights, so there is no customs control here. If you are arriving in Japan from another country, you will pass customs at the first airport of arrival (for example, in Tokyo or Sapporo).

Saving Time and Money: Online check-in saves time. Travelling light with only hand luggage will save you from waiting for baggage and potential fees. Bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay: Small airports may be more susceptible to delays due to weather conditions. In the event of a delay, contact your airline representative. Find out about your rights to beverages, food, or accommodation. Be prepared that waiting options in a small terminal may be limited, so it is useful to have a book or a charged power bank with you.