Flights to Tohoku at a glance

Traveling to Tohoku is easy, thanks to various full-service airlines that provide multiple flight choices. Take a moment to compare travel times and select the option that best fits your itinerary as you plan to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports near Tohoku: Misawa Airport (MSJ), Hakodate Airport (HKD), Aomori Airport (AOJ)
• Closest airport to Tohoku: Misawa Airport, MSJ (around 11 miles)
• Flights per week: 70+ flights arriving across Tohoku airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Tohoku: around 5+ carriers

Popular airports near Tohoku

Tohoku is a dynamic city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, ski lovers, and adventure seekers. Visitors are drawn to its rich culture, stunning scenery, romantic spots, and opportunities for wellness and relaxation. The city is conveniently served by three major airports.

• Misawa Airport (MSJ): Situated in Aomori Prefecture, approximately 11 miles from Tohoku, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking to around 2 domestic cities and 2 international locations. Travelers can opt for business class service for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Major carriers at this airport include Japan Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines.
• Hakodate Airport (HKD): Found in Oshima, Hokkaido Prefecture, about 71 miles from Tohoku, this airport primarily serves domestic routes, connecting to roughly 2 cities nationwide. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business class for a more comfortable experience, based on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating here are Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways.
• Aomori Airport (AOJ): Located in Aomori Prefecture, around 29 miles from Tohoku, Aomori Airport provides both domestic and international flight options, connecting to approximately 3 domestic cities and 1 international destination. Travelers can choose to upgrade to business class for added comfort, depending on the airline and route. Popular airlines at this airport include Japan Airlines, Korean Air, and All Nippon Airways.

Top routes to Tohoku

• Tokyo (HND) to Tohoku (AOJ/MSJ/HKD), with one-way flights starting at around $50
• Osaka (ITM) to Tohoku (AOJ/MSJ/HKD), with one-way flights starting at around $85
• Sapporo (CTS) to Tohoku (AOJ), with one-way fares starting at around $65
• Seoul (ICN) to Tohoku (AOJ), with one-way tickets available from around $90
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Tohoku (MSJ), with one-way airfare from around $420

Cheapest routes to Tohoku

• Tokyo (HND) to Tohoku (AOJ/MSJ/HKD), with low one-way fares from around $50
• Sapporo (CTS) to Tohoku (AOJ), with affordable one-way prices from around $65
• Osaka (ITM) to Tohoku (AOJ/MSJ/HKD), with cheap one-way fares from around $85
• Seoul (ICN) to Tohoku (AOJ), with low one-way fares from around $90
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Tohoku (MSJ), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $420

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Tohoku

• Japan Airlines: This airline operates flights to Aomori Airport (AOJ), Misawa Airport (MSJ), and Hakodate Airport (HKD), representing approximately 82% of Tohoku's arrivals. The average one-way ticket costs around $220, and premium service may include business class depending on the route.
• All Nippon Airways: Offering flights to Aomori Airport (AOJ) and Hakodate Airport (HKD), this carrier accounts for about 11% of arrivals in Tohoku. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of roughly $160.
• Delta: Operating flights to Misawa Airport (MSJ), Delta contributes to around 3% of Tohoku's arrivals. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $790.
• Korean Air: This airline services Aomori Airport (AOJ) and makes up about 2% of the region's arrivals. One-way fares typically average around $160.
• American Airlines: With flights to Misawa Airport (MSJ), American Airlines accounts for roughly 1% of all arrivals in Tohoku. The average one-way fare is about $540.

Best time to fly to Tohoku

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Tohoku are January, April, and June, when peak temperatures in Tohoku can reach up to 62.4°F in June. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 67.3°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $137, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? May offers an average one-way fare of around $152, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$137
February	30.0°F (-1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$178
March	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$244
April	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$159
May	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$152
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$313
July	70.0°F (21.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$169
August	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$207
September	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$166
October	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$193
November	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$193
December	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$186

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Tohoku

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Tohoku is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Tohoku hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Tohoku flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Tohoku

Tohoku welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Tohoku efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Hakodate Airport, Yunokawa Station, a metro station, is located about 1.6 miles away by car, while Shinkawa-Chō Station, a train station, is approximately 5.2 miles away, and Hakodate Seaport, a seaport, is around 5.4 miles from the airport, both easily accessible by car.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Tohoku, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Tohoku is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Tohoku on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Tohoku

• Towada: Towada, located 13 miles away from Tohoku, is a picturesque city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Here, you can immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery while exploring the Oirase Gorge, a stunning river ideal for hiking and relaxation. The Towada Art Center offers a glimpse into contemporary art, providing a cultural retreat for visitors. For those interested in history, the Oirase Stream Museum showcases the region's heritage, making it a perfect stop for culture lovers. With its scenic views and recreational activities, Towada is a must-visit destination.
• Oirase: Oirase is located 16 miles away from Tohoku, a charming city renowned for its outdoor experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the serene boardwalks along the scenic rivers and partake in hiking adventures. The Misawa International Sports Center is a great place for family-friendly activities, while the Misawa Aviation & Science Museum and Hachinohe City Museum of Art provide enriching cultural experiences. With its combination of relaxation and exploration, Oirase is perfect for those seeking romance and scenic landscapes.
• Shichinohe: Shichinohe, located 9 miles away from Tohoku, offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor experiences. The city boasts beautiful hiking trails and boardwalks for nature lovers. Don’t miss the Towada Art Center, which celebrates local artistry, or the Oirase Stream, perfect for scenic escapes. Families can unwind at Towada Central Park, an urban space that invites leisure and enjoyment. With its diverse attractions, Shichinohe is an ideal spot for travelers looking to explore both the natural and cultural wonders of the area.

Tips for short-haul flights to Tohoku

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning versatile outfits. This strategy also helps you bypass the wait at baggage claim once you land.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money during your time at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Tohoku

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer seat selection even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.