Canadians travelling to Japan can now get free flights and it's surprisingly simple

With its neon-lit cities, charming cherry blossoms, ancient temples, and iconic landmarks, Japan is a popular bucket list destination for many Canadians. But with so much to see and do there, visiting Japan from Canada can easily come with a hefty price tag.

However, a new initiative from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and Japan Airlines (JAL) is making it more affordable for Canadians to explore Japan's hidden gems, as well as its major landmarks.

Effective immediately, Canadians who book a Japan Airlines flight to Japan will receive a complimentary domestic flight to any destination within the country. This means that when you land, Japan's lesser-known cities, snowy peaks, tiny villages, and hidden gems are just a free flight away.

It's part of a wider initiative to ease tourist congestion in popular areas and attract visitors to lesser-known parts of the country. And, with JAL's massive domestic network – 64 airports and 133 routes to choose from – there are endless options for where you go next.

For example, you could start your adventure in the tourist hotspots of Tokyo or Osaka, then take a complimentary flight to somewhere completely different, like the snowy paradise of Hokkaido up north, where you'll find snow-capped landscapes and hot springs. Or, maybe you're craving an island escape, so you could head to the subtropical islands of Okinawa, with its pristine beaches and unique Ryukyu culture.

If you're enamoured by history and culture, Kyoto is a dream come true with its stunning temples, traditional tea houses, and preserved geisha districts. For those craving something truly off the beaten path, Tottori's dramatic sand dunes offer an unexpected slice of natural beauty, perfect for adventurers and photographers alike.

If you're looking for more ideas on where to go, you can check out JAL's Guide to Japan.

The free flights are only available to Canadians who book their international and domestic flights within the same reservation directly through JAL's website. It's pretty easy to do; just head over to the site, select your departure airport within Canada and your initial destination in Japan, and enjoy the bonus of a free domestic flight.

There is no scheduled end to the initiative, although it's probably worth securing your freebie ASAP if you've got your heart set on a multi-stop trip to Japan.

You'll be able to travel in style, too. Japan Airlines has taken home the Skytrax World Airline Award for Best Economy Class three times thanks to its ultra-roomy seating and tasty on-board meals, which means you'll be flying in comfort no matter where you're headed.

So, whether you've been to Japan before or it's been sitting on your travel bucket list for years, now could be the time to take advantage of a free flight and the opportunity to get off the beaten track!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.