Six Ways to Reach Japan for Cherry Blossom Season – Plus Simon Calder's Favourite
Exclusive: The most affordable route to Tokyo starts at just £688 return, but the journey comes with significant drawbacks, according to travel expert Simon Calder. With demand soaring and airfares rising due to geopolitical factors, flexibility is key for budget-conscious travellers this spring.
Navigating High Demand and Extended Routes
Simon Calder, Travel Correspondent, reports that securing a trip to Japan for the cherry blossom season is challenging. Flights departing the UK on 1 April and returning two weeks later show strong demand, pushing prices upward. The closure of Russian airspace to Western and Japanese aircraft has lengthened journeys, increasing costs for airlines. However, Calder emphasises that travellers can manage expenses by remaining flexible with their flight options.
The Nonstop Choice: Premium but Pricey
For a direct flight, Japan Airlines from London Heathrow to Tokyo Haneda—considered the superior airport in the capital—offers a return journey with partner British Airways. Booking directly with BA yields a lowest fare of £2,396, or an additional £30 for checked baggage on the return leg. While convenient, this option is notably expensive.
Absolute Cheapest: A Budget Adventure with Hurdles
The most economical fare, available through Kiwi.com at £688 return, involves a complex itinerary. It begins with a Ryanair flight from London Stansted to Bologna, a five-hour layover, then ITA to Rome for over 20 hours, followed by Sichuan Airlines to Chengdu and onward to Tokyo Narita. The return includes Cebu Pacific to Manila, an overnight flight to Riyadh, FlyNas to Istanbul with a 17-hour wait, and a final leg to Stansted. This route is lengthy and may appeal only to the most patient travellers.
Tip-to-Toe Open-Jaw: Ideal for Extensive Exploration
For those planning a thorough tour of Japan, an open-jaw ticket from Nagasaki to Sapporo costs £2,498 via BudgetAir.co.uk. The outbound flight on Japan Airlines includes a brief Tokyo stopover, while the inbound journey on China Eastern via Shanghai offers a 17-hour layover—no visa required—allowing a glimpse of the city. Chinese carriers' use of Russian airspace cuts flight time by 2.5 hours compared to British Airways.
The Manchester Option: Reliable with Good Connections
Cathay Pacific provides a solid alternative from Manchester, with connections in Hong Kong—ideal for a stopover. At £1,457, this fare is reasonable given current market rates, offering a balance of comfort and value.
The Istanbul Trick: Reducing Air Passenger Duty
With air passenger duty rising to £106 for UK-Japan flights on 1 April, booking a separate flight to Istanbul can slash this to £15. Asiana Airlines via Seoul offers a £743 return through Trip.com, with connecting flights on Wizz Air from Luton to Gatwick at £211. Note: this is a self-transfer, meaning missed connections require a new ticket.
Air and Sea: Simon Calder's Favourite Approach
Calder's preferred method combines air and ferry travel. Fly to Busan, South Korea, on Chinese carriers for £975 return, then take an overnight ferry to Fukuoka for around £130 return. This scenic route adds a unique dimension to the journey, blending efficiency with adventure.
In summary, from budget-friendly but arduous trips to Calder's favoured air-sea combo, these options cater to diverse traveller needs for experiencing Japan's cherry blossom season.
