Overview of Niigata Airport
Niigata Airport is a domestic airport located in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It serves as a gateway to the region and provides convenient access to various destinations within Japan. The airport is operated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.
Niigata Airport first opened in 1941 as an airfield for the Imperial Japanese Army. It was later converted to a civilian airport and has since undergone several expansions and upgrades. Today, Niigata Airport has a single terminal building that houses a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
The airport offers flights to several domestic destinations, including Tokyo, Sapporo, and Okinawa. It also serves as a hub for several regional airlines, such as ANA and JAL Express. Niigata Airport is particularly known for its winter charter flights, which bring tourists to the nearby ski resorts.
In addition to its passenger operations, Niigata Airport also plays a vital role in cargo transportation. It serves as a base for various cargo airlines, such as Nippon Cargo Airlines and Air Japan Cargo.
Overall, Niigata Airport is a modern and efficient facility that provides excellent service to its passengers and cargo customers. Its strategic location and extensive network of destinations make it an important transportation hub for the region and beyond.
Terminals at Niigata Airport
Niigata Airport consists of a single terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights. The terminal has two floors, with the first floor serving as the arrival area, while the second floor is the departure area.
Inside the terminal, there are various facilities such as restaurants, shops, and a duty-free shop for passengers to enjoy. Passengers can also find information desks, currency exchange, and baggage storage services on the first floor.
The departure area on the second floor has check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. The airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, making it convenient for passengers who need to stay connected.
Niigata Airport has several airline companies operating from its terminals, including Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, and Asiana Airlines. Domestic flights mainly serve Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo, while international flights fly to Seoul, Busan, and Vladivostok.
The airport also offers a lounge area called the “Sky Lounge” for passengers to relax in before their flights. The lounge provides comfortable seating, snacks, and drinks, and has a view of the runway for plane-spotting enthusiasts.
Niigata Airport has undergone several renovations over the years to enhance its facilities and improve the passenger experience. In 2020, the airport completed the renovation of the departure lobby, which now features an open design concept with a modern look.
Overall, the terminal at Niigata Airport provides a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers traveling domestically or internationally. With its range of facilities and airline offerings, it continues to be an important gateway for visitors to the Niigata Prefecture.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Niigata Airport: All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Japan, and S7 Airlines.
All Nippon Airways provides domestic flights to Sapporo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, as well as international flights to Seoul and Shanghai. Japan Airlines offers domestic flights to Sendai, Osaka, and Tokyo, as well as international flights to Seoul.
Jetstar Japan operates domestic flights to Osaka and Nagoya, while S7 Airlines provides international flights to Vladivostok.
Please note that some routes may be seasonal or subject to change. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date information on schedules and destinations.
Transportation Options at Niigata Airport
Niigata Airport serves as the gateway to the city of Niigata and its surrounding areas. It is located approximately 6 kilometers away from central Niigata, making it an ideal transportation hub for travelers visiting the region. There are several transportation options available at Niigata Airport, including shuttle buses, car rentals, shuttle buses, and train lines.
If you prefer to take a shuttle bus, there are several companies that offer services at Niigata Airport. The most popular shuttle bus service is the Limousine Bus, which provides transportation to various destinations throughout Niigata City, including hotels and major tourist attractions.
Car rentals are also available at Niigata Airport, with several car rental companies located in the terminal building. Avis, Nippon Rent-A-Car, and Toyota Rent-A-Lease are among the top options. Renting a car can give you the flexibility to explore Niigata and its surrounding areas on your own schedule.
If you’re on a budget, taking a shuttle bus is a great option. There are several shuttle bus companies that provide transportation to and from Niigata Airport. The most popular shuttle bus company is the Niigata Kotsu Bus, which offers affordable rates and convenient services to all major destinations throughout the city.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are two train lines that connect Niigata Airport to the city center. The first train line is the Niigata Airport Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, which provides direct access to Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. The second train line is the Niigata Airport Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway Line, which connects to Niigata Station and other local destinations.
Overall, there are plenty of transportation options available for travelers arriving at Niigata Airport. Whether you prefer to take a shuttle bus, rent a car, or use public transportation, there’s an option that will suit your needs and budget. By choosing the right transportation option, you can enjoy a hassle-free and convenient trip to Niigata and its surrounding areas.
Parking
Niigata Airport provides various parking options to passengers who are traveling by car. There are parking lots available in front of the airport terminal building for both short-term and long-term parking. The short-term parking lot is located just steps away from the entrance of the terminal building, making it a convenient option for those who are dropping off or picking up travelers.
For long-term parking, there are two options available: P1 and P2. P1 is an uncovered parking lot located a short distance from the terminal building, while P2 is a covered parking lot located closer to the terminal building. Both options offer hourly, daily, and monthly rates depending on the length of your stay.
The hourly rates for short-term parking start at ¥200 for the first 30 minutes, with an additional ¥100 fee for each subsequent 30-minute interval. The daily rates for long-term parking start at ¥800, with a maximum charge of ¥2,500 per day. If you plan to park for an extended period, the monthly rates for P1 start at ¥12,000, while the monthly rates for P2 start at ¥17,000.
Overall, Niigata Airport offers ample parking options to suit your needs whether you are traveling for business or leisure. It is important to note that parking availability can be limited during peak travel seasons, so it is recommended to book in advance if possible.
Check-In Procedures
Niigata Airport offers various options for check-in to suit the needs and preferences of their passengers.
Passengers can check-in online through the airline’s website or mobile app, which allows them to choose their seat, select meal options, and print their boarding pass.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for those who prefer to skip the queues and check-in by themselves.
For those who prefer a more traditional method, check-in counters are available at the airport where they can drop off their baggage and receive their boarding pass from the airline staff.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport earlier than their flight schedule to allow ample time for security checks and other procedures.
After completing the check-in process, passengers can proceed to the designated boarding gate for their flight.
Overall, the check-in process at Niigata Airport is convenient and efficient, with various options to cater to every passenger’s preference.
Security Measures at Niigata Airport
At Niigata Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members. Bags are X-rayed, and passengers are screened using metal detectors.
To make the security check smooth, it is recommended that passengers arrive early and have their IDs and travel documents ready for inspection. All liquids must be in a clear, plastic bag, and shoes must be removed before passing through the metal detector.
Electronic devices and laptops must also be taken out of bags and placed in separate bins for screening. It is important to follow the instructions of airport staff and not bring prohibited items such as weapons or sharp objects.
By following these tips and cooperating with security procedures, your experience at Niigata Airport will be safe and hassle-free.
Customs and Immigration at Niigata Airport
Upon arrival at Niigata Airport, passengers must go through the immigration process before collecting their luggage. Passport control officers will check the traveler’s passport and visa, if needed.
After passing through immigration, passengers will proceed to the baggage claim area, where they can collect their checked luggage. A customs officer may inspect any items that are being brought into the country.
When departing from Niigata Airport, passengers must first check in for their flight and then proceed to the security checkpoint. After clearing security, travelers will go through immigration and customs if they are leaving Japan.
It is important to arrive at the airport with ample time to complete all necessary procedures before departure.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi
– Restaurants and cafes
– Duty-free shops
– Souvenir shops
– ATM machines
– Currency exchange
– Baggage storage
– Rental car services
– Accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities
Niigata Airport offers a range of amenities for travelers to enhance their airport experience, including free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. For those in need of sustenance, there are multiple restaurants and cafes serving both Japanese and international cuisine. The airport also has duty-free and souvenir shops for last-minute gifts or personal shopping.
Travelers can conveniently access ATM machines and currency exchange services within the airport. For those with bulky baggage or traveling light, there is a baggage storage service available onsite. In addition, rental car services are available for travelers who need transportation during their stay. Finally, Niigata Airport provides accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities, ensuring safety and ease of travel for all passengers.
Accessibility Services
Niigata Airport offers various facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair assistance, dedicated parking spaces close to the terminal building, accessible restrooms, and elevators equipped with Braille signs.
Passengers can request for assistance from the airport staff at the information counter or through their airline.
The airport also provides special assistance to visually-impaired passengers, such as audio guidance systems and staff escorts.
Connecting Flights at Niigata Airport
Connecting flights at Niigata Airport involve the process of transferring between two separate flights to reach your final destination.
Upon arriving, follow the signs to the connecting flight check-in counter or kiosk. Make sure to have all your documents ready, including boarding passes and identification.
If your connecting flight is on a different airline, you may need to exit and re-enter security. Be sure to allow enough time for this process, especially during peak travel times.
Always double-check the departure time and gate number of your connecting flight, as they may change. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the gate, and consider downloading the airport map beforehand to familiarize yourself with the layout.
In case of any delays or issues, notify airport staff or your airline as soon as possible to avoid missing your connecting flight.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After arriving at Niigata Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area. Baggage carousels are clearly marked and information displays provide flight-specific details.
If your baggage is missing or damaged, proceed to the baggage service counter located in the baggage claim area. Here, you can report the issue and request a baggage irregularity report. Be sure to have your baggage tag and boarding pass ready for inspection.
In the event that your baggage is not located, you can file a lost baggage claim with the baggage service counter. You will need to provide specific details about your baggage as well as your travel itinerary. A tracking number will be assigned to your claim, and you can monitor the status of your lost baggage online.
If you discover that you have lost an item at the airport, you can report it to the lost and found office located in the airport terminal building. Be sure to provide detailed information about the item, including the date and location it was lost. The lost and found office will make every effort to locate your item and contact you if it is found.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Niigata Airport has a well-established emergency response system. The airport’s fire department is available 24/7 to handle any situation that may arise.
Additionally, the airport has a medical clinic on the second floor of the terminal building. It is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and is staffed with doctors and nurses who can provide first aid and basic medical services. In case of a more serious medical emergency, patients will be transferred to a nearby hospital.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Niigata Airport. The closest hotel to the airport is the Hotel Route-Inn Niigata Nishi Inter, which is only a 3-minute drive away.
Another option is the Comfort Hotel Niigata, which is a 9-minute drive from the airport. This hotel offers free shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as complimentary breakfast for guests.
The Hotel Nikko Niigata is a slightly further distance from the airport, with a 13-minute drive. However, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations, including an indoor pool and multiple dining options.
The ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata is located about 15 minutes away from the airport by car. This hotel features spacious guest rooms with city views and an on-site fitness center.
Lastly, the Hotel Okura Niigata is approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport. This hotel offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
Useful Tips:
Here are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy Niigata Airport:
1. Arrive early to avoid long queues at the check-in counters.
2. Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
3. If you have luggage, use the baggage carts provided to make your journey easier.
4. Explore the retail and dining options available within the airport before your flight.
5. Check the flight information displays regularly to keep track of any changes or delays.
6. Look out for the airport’s designated smoking areas if you need to smoke.
7. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to approach a member of staff for assistance.
Contact Information
– Niigata Airport Information Desk: +81 25-387-2111
– Lost and Found: +81 25-387-2213
– Disabled Assistance: +81 25-387-2213
– Currency Exchange: +81 25-387-2255
– Car Rentals: +81 25-385-5100
– Parking Services: +81 25-387-2300
– ATMs: Various banks’ ATMs are available in the airport.
Airports near Niigata Airport
Aside from Niigata Airport, there are other airports in the area that could be considered as an alternative option.
- Sado Airport – Located on Sado Island, approximately 53km away from Niigata Airport. Transportation options include a ferry or a domestic flight.
- Toyama Airport – Located in Toyama Prefecture, about 150km away from Niigata Airport. Transportation options include a direct train or bus, or a rental car.
- Fukushima Airport – Located in Fukushima Prefecture, approximately 180km away from Niigata Airport. Transportation options include a direct train or bus, or a rental car.
It is important to note that connection times and transportation options should be taken into account when considering these alternative airports. However, they may be worth considering for travelers who are looking for more flight options or are trying to avoid layovers or connecting flights.