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
Amami Airport (ASJ) serves as the primary aviation hub for Amami Oshima Island in Japan's Kagoshima Prefecture. The airport features a modern, compact terminal building that efficiently handles both domestic scheduled flights and occasional international charters. The layout is designed for ease of use, with the first floor dedicated to arrivals and airline check-in counters, while the second floor houses the departure gates and security screening facilities.
Inside the terminal, travelers can enjoy a range of amenities that showcase the unique culture of the Amami Islands. Several restaurants and cafes serve local delicacies such as 'Keihan' (chicken rice), providing a final taste of the island's culinary heritage before departure. Multiple souvenir shops offer traditional Oshima Tsumugi silk products, local sweets, and handmade crafts. For those seeking relaxation, a paid passenger lounge is available on the second floor, offering a quiet environment with complimentary soft drinks.
One of the most notable features of the Amami terminal is the panoramic observation deck located on the roof. This open-air space provides visitors with stunning views of the aircraft on the apron against the backdrop of the emerald-green East China Sea and the island's lush, mountainous terrain. The airport is fully accessible, offering free rental wheelchairs and strollers at the information desk, along with multi-purpose restrooms and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers.
๐ Connection Tips
Amami Airport (ASJ) is the main gateway for visitors exploring the natural beauty of Amami Oshima. For travelers, 'connecting' at ASJ is straightforward as all flight operations are consolidated within a single terminal. If you are arriving on a domestic flight from Tokyo or Osaka and connecting to a regional flight to Kagoshima, you move between the arrival area on the first floor and the departure gates on the second. It is recommended to allow at least 60 to 90 minutes for a domestic transfer, as security lines can fluctuate during peak afternoon hours.\n\nGround transportation is well-integrated. The 'Shima Bus' service operates regular routes from the terminal front to the central Naze district, a 60-minute journey costing around 1,100 yen. Taxis are readily available for a faster, 45-minute trip typically costing between 6,000 and 8,000 yen. For those planning an extended stay, multiple car rental agencies have counters in the arrival hall. It is highly advisable to book a rental car in advance, especially during the busy summer months and around the New Year holidays.\n\nTravelers should be mindful of operational hours, as the terminal typically closes shortly after the final scheduled flight. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there are several charging stations near the departure gates. Third-floor observation deck is a perfect place to wait while enjoying the coastal breeze. Ensure you have Japanese Yen in cash for local bus fares, as while major airport shops accept credit cards, many local services are still cash-based. For missed connections, airline service desks are centrally located in the first-floor lobby.
โ Back to Kerama Airport