Flights from Hong Kong to Osaka, Japan

Osaka is Japan’s third most populated city and a hidden gem compared to the more famous cities of Tokyo and Kyoto. It is nicknamed the nation’s kitchen for its famously delicious food and offers the business and glamour of a big city without sacrificing the cozy feel of a smaller town. This Japanese jewel is one that you do not want to miss out on.

Flying to Osaka

1. Which airports serve Hong Kong to Osaka?

When departing, Hong Kong International Airport (also known as Chek Lap Kok Airport) is located approximately 35 km from the city center.

Osaka International Airport (also known as Itami Airport) is the primary airport serving Osaka and is about 15 km from the city center. Despite its name, the airport’s traffic is entirely domestic. All international traffic goes through Kansai International Airport, located approximately 50 km from Osaka. A final option, Kobe Airport, serves primarily domestic traffic but can accommodate international charter flights.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Hong Kong to Osaka?

There are dozens of airlines that can take you from Hong Kong to Osaka. Some major carriers include JAL, Hong Kong, Cathay, Air China, Lufthansa and Jetstar Japan. Many offer daily departures from Hong Kong, so you can plan around your schedule.

3. How long is the flight?

A direct flight from Hong Kong to Osaka will take around three hours and 50 minutes. Osaka is one hour ahead of Hong Kong, so the time difference is not a major consideration but good to keep in mind when planning your trip, especially if your itinerary is tight.

4. Climate changes between Hong Kong and Osaka

Hong Kong has relatively warm weather throughout the year, with temperatures averaging around 64ºF between December and March and rising to an average of around 77-80ºF the rest of the year.

When traveling to Osaka, be sure to pack according to the time of year you are visiting because the months of November to March can be quite cool, ranging from 35-64 ºF, while the rest of the year can range from 68-91ºF.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

Japan uses the Japanese yen and is a cash-driven economy, so many businesses will only accept cash – you’ll want to have currency ready to use shortly after you arrive.

For residents of most countries, you will not need a visa for a short stay. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s website to see whether or not you require a visa to enter the country.

Some local Japanese customs you will want to familiarize yourself with include group dining etiquette, bowing and no tipping for travel or food.

Osaka Information

Hong Kong is considered a hybrid of eastern and western cultures, with collective values such as family and education from the east and rule of law from the west. Alternatively, Osaka considers itself a stand-alone society and unique culture, much like the rest of Japan. Similarly to Hong Kong, Japanese culture places collective values such as social obligation and interdependence in high regard.

Osaka is known for its food and is considered by some to be the food capital of the world. Make sure to enjoy the highlights of their regional cuisine such as okonomiyaki, takoyaki, udon, and oshizushi. The city is also known for fine sake made with water that originates from mountains in the area.

When visiting in the summertime, you may want to consider attending one of the festivals occurring during the season. If festivals are not of interest, there are numerous impressive museums and galleries that are worth checking out. An especially exciting attraction for kids of all ages is Universal Studios Japan or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.