Kumamoto Airport KMJ

Kumamoto Airport, also known as Aso Kumamoto, is in the municipality of Mashiki, east of Kumamoto city, on Kyushu island. It is the main airport of the prefecture and the gateway to Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso and central Kyushu. In 2015 it handled around 3.2 million passengers. The 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes severely damaged it, and since March 2023 a new, earthquake-resistant terminal has been in operation, bringing domestic and international flights under one roof.

Terminals

There is a single terminal for domestic and international flights, so there are no transfers between terminals. It is a new building, with automated check-in and fast security lanes. Outside the terminal there is an area open to everyone, called Sorayoka, with a plaza, restaurants and a tourist information centre.

Airlines and destinations

The main domestic routes are Tokyo-Haneda and Osaka-Itami, with ANA and Japan Airlines. Internationally there are flights to Taiwan and South Korea with airlines such as China Airlines, Starlux and Korean Air. International routes change with the seasons, so check which operate on your dates.

Services

The new terminal has modern waiting lounges next to the boarding gates. In addition, in the Sorayoka area you can eat or wait without going through security. It is a medium-sized airport, so do not expect the range of a large hub.

Tips

There are plans to connect the airport to the rail network in the coming years, but for now plan your transfer ahead. This is typhoon territory in late summer and early autumn: check your flight status before you go. Carry some yen in cash just in case.