Jeju Air Launches Daily Incheon-Kobe Flights: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Japan’s Culinary Gem

[iNews24 Reporter Seol Jae-yoon] Jeju Air announced on the 11th that it will begin daily, scheduled service on the Incheon–Kobe route starting the 11th of next month.

After roughly a year without launching new Japan routes, this Kobe service marks Jeju Air’s return to regular flights to Japan, following its previous launch to a smaller Japanese city.

Beginning on the 11th, Jeju Air will depart Incheon International Airport every day at 1:35 PM and arrive at Kobe Airport at 3:15 PM. The return flight leaves Kobe Airport at 4:15 PM and lands at Incheon International Airport at 6:15 PM.

Kobe, together with Osaka and Kyoto, is a standout city in the Kansai region. Its history as a port has shaped a vibrant food culture—think top-tier Kobe beef and charming bakery-hopping experiences.

For scenic moments, head to Kobe Port Tower, Meriken Park or take the Nunobiki Ropeway for spectacular night views. The city is also home to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three major hot springs. Golf enthusiasts flock to the Kobe Golf Club, one of Japan’s earliest courses opened in 1903, perched on Mount Rokko with striking scenery.

According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Statistics Bureau, about 20% of residents in Hyogo Prefecture—where Kobe is located—held Japanese passports in 2024, the seventh-highest rate among Japan’s 46 prefectures, suggesting healthy outbound travel demand among local residents.

To celebrate the new route, Jeju Air will award 30,000 J Points to customers who purchase a June ticket on the Jeju Air website or mobile app by the 24th, opt in to app notifications, and tap “Apply” on the event page.

A Jeju Air spokesperson described Kobe as a layered city where Western, Chinese and Japanese influences coexist, offering a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe compared with other major Japanese cities. They recommended travelers use Jeju Air to enjoy Kobe’s food scene, golf and hot springs without the hassle.