Regular Scheduled Flights Reopen at Hateruma Airport on January 22, 2024! What Are the Timetables and Fares?

Hateruma Island in Okinawa Prefecture (pronounced “Haterumajima”) is the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. It is home to Japan’s southernmost Hateruma Airport, and starting January 22, 2024, Dai-1 Airlines will operate flights from Ishigaki (Minami-nu Island Ishigaki Airport)! Until now, the only way to reach Hateruma Island was by high-speed ferry to Hateruma Port, but with the reopening of Hateruma Airport, travelers will have the added option of flying.

This article covers the timetable, fares, and reservation methods for Dai-1 Airlines’ Hateruma/Tarama route, so you can plan your journey with confidence.

Hateruma Airport Resumes Regular Flights!

Hateruma Airport had suspended its scheduled flights in 2007 and completely ceased operations in 2008, leaving its terminal largely deserted. However, on January 22, 2024, scheduled service from Ishigaki Island (Minami-nu Island Ishigaki Airport) will resume. Notably, Hateruma Airport’s terminal was completely rebuilt in 2015, and this will be the first time that regular flights operate from the new terminal.

Dai-1 Airlines will operate three routes simultaneously on the same day: Naha Airport to Awaguni Airport (already established), Ishigaki to Tarama Airport (which is scheduled to begin on the same day), and Ishigaki to Hateruma Airport.

Where Is Hateruma Airport Located?

Hateruma Airport is situated on the eastern side of the island, somewhat distant from the main settlement and Hateruma Port. It is recommended to rent a motorcycle or electric bicycle to reach the airport. Alternatively, if your accommodation offers a shuttle service to the airport, that might be a convenient option—be sure to check with your lodging when you book.

Timetable, Fares, and Reservation Information for Flights from Minami-nu Island Ishigaki Airport to Hateruma Airport

For both Hateruma and Tarama flights, the fare for adults is ¥14,000. For island residents, the fare is ¥5,000. For children (3 years and older) who are not residents, the fare is ¥8,500 (residents: ¥3,000). Additionally, high school students from each island are charged ¥4,200.

The aircraft used will be a 19-seat Twin Otter (DHC-6-400 model), although typically only around 15 passengers can be accommodated per flight.

◆ Timetable for New Ishigaki Airport – Hateruma Airport

Departure from New Ishigaki Airport: 9:30 → Arrival at Hateruma Airport: 10:00
Departure from Hateruma Airport: 11:30 → Arrival at Ishigaki: 12:00

*These flights generally operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, but there may also be temporary flights on additional days.
*Also, note that service is scheduled to be suspended for about one and a half months starting February 27, 2024, due to aircraft maintenance.

◆ Timetable for New Ishigaki Airport – Tarama Airport

Departure from New Ishigaki Airport: 14:00 → Arrival at Tarama Island: 14:30
Departure from Tarama Island: 15:45 → Arrival at New Ishigaki: 16:15

*These flights typically operate on Mondays and Saturdays, with possible additional temporary flights.
*Similarly, service is scheduled to be suspended for about one and a half months starting February 27, 2024, due to aircraft maintenance.

♦Reservation Methods

As of January 11, 2024, reservations can be made via the internet or by phone.
【Reservation Phone Number】 0980-86-8700

What are the highlights of Hateruma Island?

It takes about a 30‑minute walk from the airport to Japan’s southernmost observatory, the “Hateruma Island Star Observation Tower.” Right nearby, the “Japan’s Southernmost Monument” stands, marking the southernmost point accessible to ordinary Japanese people. At four locations on the island—including the star observation tower—you can purchase a “Proof of Japan’s Southernmost Point,” and on weekdays, you can also get a “Landscape Postmark” at the Hateruma Post Office.

To the northwest of Hateruma Island lies “Nishihama,” one of the most stunning spots in the Yaeyama Islands, where you can enjoy the view for hours on end.

You can also travel from Ishigaki Island to Hateruma Island by high-speed ferry!

Not only by airplane, you can also travel from Ishigaki Island to Hateruma Island by high-speed ferry! Ansei Kankō operates three round trips daily between Ishigaki Port Ferry Terminal and Hateruma Port. With SkyTicket, you can even book Ansei Kankō’s high-speed ferry tickets, making it possible to mix a one-way flight with a one-way high-speed ferry in your itinerary. Keep in mind that ferry rides may be rough on certain days depending on the weather, so plan accordingly.

Direct Flights to Tarama Island Also Starting Soon!

In addition to the Ishigaki–Hateruma route, Dai-1 Airlines is also launching a new route from New Ishigaki to Tarama Airport. Previously, traveling from Ishigaki to Tarama required an indirect route via Miyako Island, but this new direct service makes it easier to reach Tarama Island.

Tarama Island, largely untouched by modern tourist development, offers a glimpse of traditional island life, where you can enjoy a slow pace and relax.

Tickets for the Miyako–Tarama route can be booked via skyticket.

◎Let's go from Ishigaki Island to Hateruma Island and Tarama Island with the revived airline service!

With the resumption of scheduled flights, traveling from Ishigaki to Hateruma Island—and even to Tarama Island—has never been more convenient.

On Hateruma Island, Japan’s southernmost inhabited island, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and interact with the local residents who call this unique place home. Experience the charm of “Hateruma Travel” and discover why this island is truly a hidden gem in the southern reaches of Japan!

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Regular Scheduled Flights Reopen at Hateruma Airport on January 22, 2024! What Are the Timetables and Fares?