Best Transit Countries for Traveling to Japan

For some travelers, flights with layovers are a preferred choice when flying to Japan—mainly because the tickets are often more affordable compared to direct flights. Moreover, layovers can offer a chance to rest, explore the airport, or even take a quick tour of the transit city.

However, choosing the right transit country is crucial to ensure a comfortable and efficient journey. Factors such as airport facilities, transit visa requirements, flight connections, and traveler friendliness should all be taken into account.

Below are some countries known for their top-rated international airports and are among the favorite transit choices for travelers en route to Japan:

Singapore – Changi Airport

Singapore is one of the top transit countries for travelers heading to Japan. Changi Airport, often ranked as one of the best airports in the world, offers exceptional comfort, full facilities, and a wide range of flight connections to various cities in Japan.

The airport boasts fast immigration processing, a clean and modern environment, and countless food, entertainment, and rest options—making transit through Singapore a pleasant experience.

For those with longer layovers, travelers with Indonesian passports can even explore Singapore visa-free, adding more value to their trip to Japan.

Airlines like Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and Garuda Indonesia (via codeshare) offer multiple route options from Indonesia to Japan with transit in Singapore.

Hong Kong – Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong's strategic location in East Asia, coupled with the modern and efficient Hong Kong International Airport, makes it an ideal place to stop before heading to Japan. The airport is known for its world-class service, comfortable lounges, halal food options, and visa-free access for Indonesian passport holders for short stays.

Airlines such as Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, and Garuda Indonesia (on selected routes) are excellent choices for transit through Hong Kong. These routes often offer competitive fares, ideal for budget-conscious travelers heading to Japan.

Thailand – Suvarnabhumi Airport

Thailand is another popular transit hub for travelers en route to Japan, thanks to its strategic Southeast Asian location and its well-equipped international airport. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is known for its good service, halal food options, and convenient resting areas.

Immigration procedures and inter-terminal transfers are relatively smooth, making it easy to switch flights. Thai Airways—Thailand’s flagship carrier—offers direct flights to major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.

For budget travelers, low-cost carriers like Thai AirAsia X are available and provide an affordable option.

Vietnam – Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Vietnam has also become a favorite transit country for travelers heading to Japan, especially due to its convenient location and the availability of affordable flight options. Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City provides sufficient and comfortable facilities for layovers.

With relatively straightforward immigration procedures and halal food availability, this airport is especially favorable for Muslim travelers. Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways are the primary airlines offering routes from Indonesia to Japan with a transit in Vietnam. They provide decent service and flexible schedules.

South Korea – Incheon International Airport

South Korea is another top transit country for travelers flying to Japan. Incheon International Airport in Seoul is well known for its modern, clean, and traveler-friendly facilities. The airport features diverse dining options, rest areas, duty-free shopping, and a quick and efficient transit process.

For those with longer layovers, free city tours are available, giving passengers a brief glimpse of Korea. Airlines such as Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and budget carriers like T’way Air or Jin Air offer multiple routes from Southeast Asia to Japan with a layover in Seoul.

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