How to Get from Japan to Phuket｜Are There Direct Flights and What’s the Best Route?

Planning a trip from Japan to Phuket, Thailand? Here's everything you need to know about getting there.

Phuket is a tropical island located in the southwest of Thailand, along the Andaman Sea. While much of the island is covered in lush rainforest, its western coast is famous for some of the most popular beaches in the country.

A top destination for travelers heading to Thailand, Phuket offers stunning scenery and vibrant beach resorts. In this guide, we’ll not only explain how to get from Japan to Phuket, but also cover the availability of direct flights, budget-friendly options, and recommended airlines. Be sure to read on if you're planning a beach getaway from Japan!

How to Get to Phuket from Japan

Traveling from Japan to Phuket, Thailand, is typically done by air.

However, there are currently no direct flights from Japan to Phuket. Therefore, you will need to travel via a connecting city to reach your final destination.

The total travel time from Japan to Phuket is approximately 11 to 17 hours, depending on your departure city—such as Tokyo—and the length of the layover at the connecting airport. Some flight plans offer short transfer times, allowing you to continue your journey with only a few hours' wait.

※ Information is current as of July 2024.

◆ How to Get to Phuket from Japan via Kuala Lumpur

When searching for flights from Tokyo to Phuket on skyticket, the most affordable route is often one that connects through Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport is Malaysia’s main international gateway and can be accessed not only from Haneda and Narita, but also from Chubu, Kansai, New Chitose, Fukuoka, and Naha airports in Japan.

Kuala Lumpur is also a popular tourist destination. Even though it serves as a transit point, it’s a great city to explore. Consider planning a stopover in Kuala Lumpur instead of heading straight to Phuket—it's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a mini-trip within your journey.

◆ Via Bangkok: How to Get from Japan to Phuket

Another common transit point when traveling from Japan to Phuket is Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. Flights typically arrive at either Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK).

Compared to flights that transit through Kuala Lumpur, routes via Bangkok may be slightly more expensive. However, Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. Many travelers choose to enjoy a short stay in Bangkok before continuing on to Phuket, making it a great way to experience two exciting Thai cities in one trip.

What is Phuket International Airport?

Phuket International Airport is a globally popular gateway to one of Thailand’s most famous resort destinations. It is well-connected with numerous flights from major Asian cities, serviced by airlines such as Thai Airways and AirAsia Japan. This makes it easy to access Phuket via transit hubs like Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai.

◆ How to Get from Phuket Airport to the City Center

From Phuket International Airport, there are several convenient options to reach Phuket city center. The most recommended and budget-friendly option is the Airport Bus. There are three different routes, so it's important to check your destination before boarding. The fare is approximately 100 Baht, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

While taxis are also available, the cost can exceed 700 Baht, making the bus a more affordable option for travelers.

Recommended Flights from Japan to Phuket

Here are some recommended flight options from Japan to Phuket.

As mentioned earlier, there are no direct flights from Japan to Phuket, so travelers usually need to take one or two connecting flights.

One of the most affordable options is to fly with the low-cost carriers AirAsia X and AirAsia. If you choose a route via Kuala Lumpur, AirAsia generally offers the cheapest fares.

However, keep in mind that this option may include additional charges for checked baggage, so depending on your luggage volume, the total cost might end up higher than other airlines.

◆ Recommended Full-Service Airline: Thai Airways

If you prefer to transfer in Bangkok, we recommend flying with Thai Airways, a full-service carrier from Thailand. While it may be slightly more expensive compared to flights via Kuala Lumpur, Thai Airways includes 20kg of checked baggage at no extra cost.

When comparing overall costs, this option can be more economical than some low-cost carriers—especially if you have baggage. It’s also a great choice if you plan to stop over in Bangkok.

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How to Get from Japan to Phuket｜Are There Direct Flights and What’s the Best Route?