Junmachi Airport

Welcome to an air gateway that declares the region's gastronomic riches right from the doorstep! This airport officially bears the appetising nickname "Delicious Yamagata Airport", highlighting the prefecture's status as Japan's premier fruit orchard. Situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Higashine City, it serves as a cosy and hospitable entry point for travellers wishing to enjoy the legendary beef, hot springs, and, of course, the famous cherries.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Junmachi Airport leaves tourists with the warmest memories. Its compactness is its main advantage: the journey from the check-in counter to the boarding gate takes mere minutes, eliminating the stress often associated with large hubs. The terminal interior is decorated with cherry motifs—the symbol of the region—creating a bright and festive mood all year round.

For the convenience of travellers, excellent transport links have been organised: special "Yamagata Airport Shuttle" buses run to Yamagata Railway Station, synchronised with flight arrival and departure schedules. Furthermore, breathtaking views of the mountain ranges surrounding the valley open up from the terminal windows and during take-off, making the start and end of your journey truly scenic.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Junmachi Airport (GAJ), which serves the city of Yamagata. We recommend always checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.yamagata-airport.co.jp. Please note that the site is available in Japanese; you can use your browser's built-in translation function.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +81 237-47-3111. When calling from outside Japan, include the country code (+81).
• Airport Address: 3008 Higashiyama, Hanyu, Higashine, Yamagata 999-3776, Japan.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is typically not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Airport Social Media: Small regional airports in Japan do not always maintain active social media pages. The most reliable and fresh information is best found on the official website.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the information desk or call the inquiry service phone. In case of lost luggage or personal items on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all general questions, including flight information, services for passengers with reduced mobility, and other assistance at the airport, please contact the main inquiry service phone.

There are several ways to get to Junmachi Airport (GAJ), located approximately 20 km north of the city centre of Yamagata. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. When planning your trip, please note that the airport primarily serves domestic flights, and for international travel, it may be more convenient to fly into larger hubs, such as Sendai Airport (SDJ), and travel by ground transport from there.

Public Transport: Shuttle Bus
The most popular and reasonably priced option is the shuttle bus. It runs between the airport and JR Yamagata Station in the city centre. Bus schedules are usually coordinated with flight arrivals and departures.

• Travel time: About 35-40 minutes.
• Cost: Approximately 1,000-1,200 JPY for an adult. Tickets can be purchased at a machine in the arrival hall or directly from the driver.

Taxi and Transfer
A taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach your specific destination. The taxi rank is located right outside the terminal exit. A trip to the centre of Yamagata will take about 30 minutes, but it will cost significantly more—approximately 7,000-9,000 JPY. A more economical alternative is the "Ainori Taxi" (shared taxi). This is a minibus that must be booked in advance (usually a few hours before the trip). The cost per person is significantly lower than a regular taxi, making it an excellent choice for small groups or solo travellers.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to actively explore Yamagata Prefecture, renting a car is an ideal solution. Counters for several major rental companies are located in the airport arrival hall. By car, the journey to the city centre will take about 30 minutes. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided next to the terminal, suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.

Yamagata Airport (GAJ), also known as Junmachi Airport, is a compact and modern aviation hub with one passenger terminal. Its well-thought-out structure makes navigation intuitive and fast, which is particularly convenient for travellers who value time and comfort. The terminal serves all domestic flights, combining arrival and departure zones under one roof.

The terminal layout is very simple and logical. The building has two main floors:

• First Floor – This is the arrival and check-in area. Located here are airline counters (e.g., JAL and Fuji Dream Airlines), the baggage claim area, an information desk, and car rental offices. Arriving passengers enter this area immediately after disembarking the aircraft.
• Second Floor – The departure zone. Ascending via escalator or lift, you will find yourself in a spacious hall containing security checkpoints, a small waiting area near the boarding gates, souvenir shops featuring local delicacies and handicrafts, as well as a few restaurants and cafes overlooking the runway.

Since the airport has only one terminal, transitions between zones take minimal time. Check-in and security procedures are very quick compared to major international airports. Typically, completing all formalities takes no more than 20–30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one to one and a half hours before departure to check in luggage without haste, pass through security, and perhaps enjoy a cup of coffee or purchase souvenirs.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signs, which are duplicated in English. Thanks to its compact size, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key zones—from check-in counters to boarding gates—are within walking distance of each other. This makes Yamagata Airport a perfect example of Japanese efficiency and passenger care.

The history of Yamagata Airport (GAJ), also known as Junmachi Airport, began in 1964 when it was officially opened to serve domestic flights. Originally built with a runway length of 1,200 metres, it was intended to improve Yamagata Prefecture's transport links with major cities in Japan, primarily Tokyo.

A significant stage of development occurred in 1981 when the runway was extended to 1,500 metres. However, the real breakthrough was the major modernisation in 1991. The runway was expanded to 2,000 metres, allowing the airport to accommodate medium-haul jet aircraft and gain international status. In the same year, the first scheduled international flight to Seoul was launched, marking an important event for the entire Tohoku region.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that Yamagata Airport is a joint-use airfield and shares infrastructure with a base of the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force. In 2014, as part of a campaign to promote local produce, the airport received the official nickname "Oishii Yamagata Kūkō", which translates as "Delicious Yamagata Airport". This highlights the region's role as one of the country's gastronomic centres, renowned for its cherries, rice, and other regional specialties.

Junmachi Airport (GAJ), also known as Yamagata Airport, offers passengers a compact yet functional range of services that make waiting for a flight comfortable. Within the terminal, you will find several establishments where you can have a bite to eat. Try local cuisine dishes in one of the restaurants or enjoy a cup of coffee in a café before departure. Shops are also available where you can buy unique souvenirs from Yamagata Prefecture, local delicacies, and travel goods—an excellent opportunity to purchase last-minute gifts from Japan.

For those who value extra comfort, the airport features a paid lounge where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or attend to work matters. Special zones with power outlets and USB ports are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices.

Regarding financial services, ATMs are available at the airport. It is worth noting that a currency exchange bureau may be absent or have very limited operating hours, so it is recommended to arrange cash exchange in advance. In case of feeling unwell, the terminal has a first aid room where passengers can receive basic medical support.

The airport is well-prepared for travellers with children: special mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change your baby in privacy. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. Assistance services can be booked in advance if required.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options can be found in nearby cities such as Tendo and Higashine. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent within the terminal as it is a small regional airport. For business meetings, it is better to utilise the infrastructure of hotels in Yamagata or other major cities in the prefecture.

At Yamagata Airport (GAJ), also known as Junmachi, travellers will find several cosy options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal before the security check (landside), making them accessible to both passengers and those seeing them off.

For those seeking a full lunch, a restaurant is located on the second floor of the terminal. It often offers a good view of the runway. The menu features Japanese cuisine as well as some popular European items. It is an ideal place to enjoy a meal without haste. Particular attention should be paid to local specialties. If you are lucky, you might try the famous regional-style soba noodles, such as ita-soba, served on a large wooden tray.

If time is limited, a café is suitable for a quick bite, offering coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. Additionally, the airport souvenir shops often sell local delicacies and sweets, which are perfect as snacks for the journey. This is a wonderful opportunity to grab an edible souvenir from Yamagata.

Regarding special dietary requirements, choices may be limited. Vegetarians should study the menu carefully and check ingredients with staff, as many Japanese sauces and broths contain fish components (dashi). Finding certified Halal or gluten-free meals in a small regional airport can be challenging, so travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks.

Prices in Yamagata Airport establishments can be described as moderate by Japanese standards. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: cafes and restaurants open in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening flight. It is recommended to check current operating hours on-site, especially if your departure is scheduled for a later time.

Junmachi Airport, serving primarily domestic flights within Japan, is notable for its compactness and efficiency. Thanks to this, pre-flight formalities here are quick and fuss-free. We recommend arriving at the airport approximately 1–1.5 hours before your flight departure. This time will be quite sufficient to calmly check in luggage, receive your boarding pass, and pass through security.

To save extra time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Security procedures at Japanese airports are generally organised flawlessly. To speed up the process, have your boarding pass ready in advance, and remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage.

When flying out of Yamagata city, we advise choosing a window seat—you will be treated to stunning views of the region's mountain landscapes. If a quick exit upon arrival is important to you, book seats in the front of the cabin. Standard rules apply for hand luggage: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited.

If your itinerary includes a transfer at another airport in the country, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination. Usually, this is standard practice on domestic flights, but it is always better to double-check to avoid misunderstandings upon arrival at the connection point.

Want to save time and money? Book tickets and transfers to/from the airport well in advance. Food and drinks in the terminal can be pricey, so you may bring permitted snacks with you. Using shuttle buses or other public transport instead of taxis will also help reduce expenses.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for the latest information and possible options (rebooking, meal vouchers). Do not forget to check the terms of your travel insurance—it may cover expenses related to departure delays. The airport has comfortable waiting areas and several cafes where you can spend time.