โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Kerama Airport (KJP) is a unique regional aviation facility located on Fukaji Island within the Kerama archipelago of Okinawa, Japan. As a 'Type-3' public airport, it primarily serves as a vital infrastructure link for the surrounding islands of Zamami, Aka, and Geruma. While regular scheduled commercial services were suspended in recent years, the airport remains an active hub for private charters, emergency medical evacuations, and specialized seasonal sightseeing flights, providing passengers with breathtaking aerial views of the world-famous 'Kerama Blue' coral reefs.
The facility features a compact, two-story terminal building designed for functional efficiency in a remote island setting. The ground floor houses the main passenger hall, featuring basic check-in counters (typically active only for pre-arranged charters) and a functional waiting lounge. The second floor and rooftop area feature an admission-free observation deck, which is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the airfield apron and the neighboring islands. This simple design ensures exceptionally short walking distances from the terminal entrance directly to the 800-meter (2,625 ft) asphalt runway (04/22).
Amenities within the Kerama terminal are minimalist and reflect its role as a specialized out-station. There are no formal restaurants, retail shops, or convenience stores on-site, so travelers are strongly advised to bring their own refreshments and water from the main settlements on Aka or Zamami. The terminal provides clean public restrooms and basic seating, but modern services like public Wi-Fi are generally not available. The airfield infrastructure is well-maintained to support STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft and helicopters, which are the mainstays of regional inter-island aviation in Okinawa.
Ground transportation at KJP is highly specialized due to its location on the southernmost of three bridge-connected islands. Fukaji Island is linked by road to Geruma and Aka Islands, allowing for quick 10-to-15 minute taxi or pre-arranged shuttle transfers to Aka Port. From there, the 'Mitsushima' village ferry provides frequent connections to Zamami Island, while a separate reserved route links to Aharen Port on Tokashiki Island. The airport typically operates during daylight hours (08:00 to 18:00), and travelers are generally advised to coordinate all transport logistics well in advance, as ferry schedules are highly synchronized with regional maritime conditions.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Kerama Airport (KJP) is a unique experience that requires careful coordination between air and sea-based transport. A 'connection' here typically involves a transition from a private charter flightโoften from Naha (OKA)โto a local ground transfer and subsequent inter-island boat ride. Since arrivals and departures are housed in a single building, moving from your flight to your ground transport outside can be completed in under 5 minutes. However, it is advisable to allow at least 60-90 minutes for any onward connection to account for the travel time to Aka Port and the 'Mitsushima' ferry schedules. Water-based transportation is the most critical link for any traveler transiting through Kerama. Since there are no large-scale public buses, you must pre-arrange a shuttle or taxi from the airport to Aka Port if you are heading to Zamami or Tokashiki. The 'Mitsushima' inter-island ferry is the most reliable way to move between islands, but note that the route to Tokashiki (Aharen Port) requires a reservation made at least one day in advance. Digital information displays at the terminal provide basic airfield status, but direct communication with the Zamami Village office or your tour operator is the most reliable source of boat information. Practical preparation for a KJP connection includes utilizing the airport's rooftop observation deck during any wait. While the terminal provides shelter, there are no ATMs or currency exchange offices on-site, so having sufficient Japanese Yen (JPY) in cash for boat fares and local transport is a wise precaution, as many inter-island services do not accept cards. Mobile reception at the airfield is generally stable, allowing you to stay connected and confirm onward boat bookings.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Aguni Airport (AGJ) is a small regional airfield located on Aguni Island, part of the Shimajiri District in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Naha, the airport was established to provide essential air connectivity for the island's residents and visitors. Although it is classified as a Class 3 airport and remains under the management of the Okinawa Prefecture, regular scheduled commercial flights have been suspended since 2009, making the airport a quiet outpost primarily used for private charters and emergency services.
The terminal building at Aguni is modest and functional, reflecting its role as a secondary gateway to the island. While the facility is well-maintained, it does not offer the typical amenities found in larger Japanese airports, such as retail shops, restaurants, or airline lounges. Instead, the terminal serves as a base for administrative operations and as a staging point for the "Doctor Heli" emergency medical services and occasional charter flights. The layout is exceptionally simple, with the single runway and small apron located immediately adjacent to the terminal structure, ensuring rapid access for emergency personnel and private passengers alike.
Despite the lack of daily commercial traffic, the airport remains an important piece of the island's infrastructure. It provides a vital backup to the daily ferry service, particularly during the typhoon season when sea travel can be disrupted by heavy swells. The terminal area is characterized by the peaceful atmosphere of rural Okinawa, surrounded by the island's unique volcanic landscape and agricultural fields. For travelers, the airport is a symbol of Aguni's isolation and its self-sufficiency, serving as a quiet reminder of the era when small propeller planes were the primary link between the island and the provincial capital of Naha.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting to or from Aguni Island is currently defined by sea travel rather than air, as Aguni Airport (AGJ) does not host scheduled commercial flights. The primary "connection" for all visitors is the Ferry Aguni, which departs once daily from Tomari Port (Tomarin) in Naha. The journey across the East China Sea takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, arriving at Aguni Port on the south side of the island. It is essential to check the ferry schedule in advance, as departures from Naha are typically around 9:30 AM or 9:55 AM, and return trips from Aguni often depart in the early afternoon, leaving little room for error.\n\nFor those requiring air transport, private charters are the only option, and these must be arranged through specialized aviation companies in Naha. If you are arriving at Naha International Airport (OKA) and need to connect to the Aguni ferry, allow at least 60 to 90 minutes to transit from the airport to Tomari Port via taxi or the Yui Rail monorail (get off at Miebashi Station). Be aware that the ferry is highly susceptible to weather conditions; in the event of high waves or typhoons, service is frequently cancelled. During such times, the only alternative is the emergency medical helicopter, which is strictly reserved for residents. Therefore, it is strongly advised to build several buffer days into your itinerary when visiting Aguni to account for potential travel disruptions. On the island itself, transportation is limited to a small number of taxis and rental bicycles, so coordinate your arrival at Aguni Port with your accommodation provider for a seamless transition.
โ Back to Kerama Airport