Top Airports in Japan: Codes, Airlines & Terminals

Japan operates nearly 100 airports across its four main islands and archipelagos, with five major international hubs handling millions of passengers annually. From the award-winning Haneda Airport in Tokyo to regional facilities dotting remote islands, airports in Japan form a sophisticated network that keeps this island nation connected.

In this guide, we’ve covered the top airports in Japan, their facilities, transportation options, and everything you need to know for a smooth travel experience.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Tokyo Haneda Airport	Domestic & International	HND
Narita International Airport	Domestic & International	NRT
Kansai International Airport	Domestic & International	KIX
Fukuoka Airport	Domestic & International	FUK
New Chitose Airport	Domestic & International	CTS
Naha Airport	Domestic & International	OKA
Osaka International Airport (Itami)	Primarily Domestic	ITM
Chubu Centrair International Airport	Domestic & International	NGO
Kagoshima Airport	Domestic & Limited International	KOJ
Kumamoto Airport	Domestic & Limited International	KMJ

1. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) 

Tokyo Haneda Airport is Japan’s busiest aviation hub, handling over 85 million passengers in 2019. As one of the top airports in Japan, it features modern terminals and consistently ranks among the world’s cleanest and most efficient airports.

Address: Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tCFDZPXtcP9x2bcC8
Airport Code: HND
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81357578111
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 26 km from Tokyo city

Operating Airlines: Japan Airlines, ANA, Skymark, Air Do, StarFlyer, and numerous international carriers make this one of the best airports in Japan for connectivity.

Terminals: Three passenger terminals plus a VIP terminal – Terminal 1 (JAL Domestic), Terminal 2 (ANA Domestic), and Terminal 3 (International).

Services & Amenities:

• Accessible restrooms, wheelchair assistance, and tactile indicators
• Free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals
• Extensive shopping, including duty-free and local products
• Wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food courts
• Premium lounges for JAL, ANA, and other airlines
• Currency exchange, ATMs, and postal services
• Free shuttle buses between terminals

Nearby Attractions:

• Ota Market: One of Japan’s largest wholesale markets, just one stop from Haneda on the Tokyo Monorail, is famous for its vast selection of fresh produce, seafood, and flowers.
• Tokyo Tower: 333-meter tall communications and observation tower offering panoramic city views, shopping areas, and restaurants with spectacular night illuminations.
• Shibuya Crossing: The world-famous scramble intersection surrounded by shopping centers, dining establishments, and entertainment venues, often called the “Times Square of Tokyo.”
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Beautiful 144-acre park blending Japanese, English, and French garden styles, perfect for relaxation and seasonal flower viewing, especially cherry blossoms in spring.

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2. Narita International Airport (NRT) 

Narita Airport ranks as the second busiest airport in Japan, serving approximately 40 million passengers annually. Located in Chiba Prefecture, this airport handles about 50% of Japan’s international passenger traffic.

Address: 1-1 Furugome, Narita, Chiba 282-0004, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QGPRQjPMy5i6rHYV6
Airport Code: NRT
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81476348000
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 80 km from Tokyo city

Operating Airlines: Japan Airlines, ANA, United Airlines, Delta, Emirates, and many other international carriers serve this major hub among airports in Japan.

Terminals: Three terminals operate at Narita – Terminal 1 (Star Alliance/SkyTeam), Terminal 2 (Oneworld), and Terminal 3 (Budget Airlines).

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
• Duty-free shopping, restaurants, and cafes
• Multiple airline lounges
• Currency exchange, ATMs, and travel insurance
• Baggage storage and delivery services
• Observation decks
• Prayer rooms and smoking areas
• Capsule hotel options within the terminal

Nearby Attractions:

• Naritasan Shinshoji Temple: Over 1,000-year-old Buddhist temple complex with beautiful pagodas, historic buildings, and a traditional shopping street offering local snacks and souvenirs.
• Narita Sakura no Yama Park: Scenic hillside park providing excellent views of the airport’s runways for plane spotting, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
• Museum of Aeronautical Sciences: Interactive aviation museum featuring aircraft displays, flight simulators, and educational exhibits about the physics and history of flight.
• AEON Mall Narita: Large modern shopping center with over 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, easily accessible by free shuttle bus from the airport.

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3. Kansai International Airport (KIX) 

Credit: Wikipedia

Kansai Airport serves as western Japan’s main international gateway. This remarkable facility among airports in Japan sits on an artificial island in Osaka Bay and features a striking terminal design by architect Renzo Piano.

Address: 1番地 Senshukukokita, Izumisano, Osaka 549-0001, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mUUuXqbs3RQAx6tX8
Airport Code: KIX
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81724552500
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 60 km from Osaka city center

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach, Jetstar Japan, and many international carriers serve this important entry point among top airports in Japan.

Terminals: Two terminals serve passengers – Terminal 1 (full-service) and Terminal 2 (low-cost carriers).

Services & Amenities:

• Accessible facilities throughout the terminals
• Free Wi-Fi in both terminals
• Duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes
• Multiple airline lounges
• Hotels and capsule hotels in the Aero Plaza
• Baby care rooms and kids’ play areas
• Medical and dental clinics
• Sky View observation hall
• Prayer rooms and smoking areas

Nearby Attractions:

• Rinku Premium Outlets: Major shopping destination with over 250 domestic and international brand stores offering discounted prices, located just across the bay from the airport.
• Sennan Long Park: Contemporary seaside park with boardwalks, glamping facilities, and sports areas designed with Southern California-inspired aesthetics.
• Osaka Castle: One of Japan’s most famous castles, surrounded by a large park and moat, featuring a museum with historical artifacts and panoramic views from the top floor.
• Dotonbori: An iconic entertainment district in Osaka known for its vibrant neon signs, street food stalls selling takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and the famous Glico running man billboard.

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4. Fukuoka Airport (FUK) 

Fukuoka Airport serves as the main aviation gateway to Kyushu island. This busy facility is one of the most popular airports in Japan and handles over 24 million passengers annually. The airport is 5 minutes from the downtown area by subway.

Address: 778-1 Shimousui, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0003, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/i27etsSSH1pW7CDA8
Airport Code: FUK
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81926216059
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 9 km from Fukuoka city

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach, Jetstar Japan, and various Asian carriers connect through this convenient airport in Japan.

Terminals: Domestic (T1-T3) and International (T2-T3) terminals serve different flight operations.

Services & Amenities:

• Duty-free and retail shops
• Restaurants and cafes with local and international cuisine
• Free Wi-Fi in all areas
• Relaxing lounges with shower facilities
• Massage chairs and rest areas
• Free shuttle bus between terminals
• Currency exchange and ATMs
• Observation deck

Nearby Attractions:

• Ohori Park: Tranquil city park centered around a large pond with a Japanese garden, walking paths, and boat rentals, modeled after the West Lake in Hangzhou, China.
• Kushida Shrine: One of Fukuoka’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, dating back to 757 AD and hosting the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival every July.
• Uminonakamichi Seaside Park: An extensive recreational area on a peninsula featuring flower gardens, cycling paths, an aquarium, and a small amusement park for families.
• Canal City Hakata: Distinctive shopping and entertainment complex with a canal running through the center, offering unique architecture, specialty shops, restaurants, and regular fountain shows.

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5. New Chitose Airport (CTS) 

Credit: Wikipedia

New Chitose Airport serves as the main aviation gateway to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island. This excellent airspace facility in Japan handles over 20 million passengers yearly and connects to ski resorts, hot springs, and Hokkaido’s natural wonders.

Address: Bibi, Chitose, Hokkaido 066-0012, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PrtM79mZy1bcuF4KA
Airport Code: CTS
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81123230111
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 53 km from Sapporo city

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach, Jetstar Japan, and international carriers connect Hokkaido to Asia and beyond from this northern hub.

Terminals: Domestic and International terminals are connected by shopping areas.

Services & Amenities:

• Direct train connections to Sapporo
• Shopping mall with specialty Hokkaido products
• On-site Air Terminal Hotel
• Unique airport onsen (hot spring bath)
• Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park (family theme park)
• Numerous restaurants featuring local cuisine
• Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals
• Prayer rooms and shower facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Odori Park: Central 1.5 km-long park running through downtown Sapporo, famous for hosting the annual Sapporo Snow Festival with enormous ice and snow sculptures.
• Sapporo Beer Museum: Japan’s only beer museum offering insights into the history of Sapporo Beer since 1876, with tasting sessions of different beer varieties.
• Doraemon Waku Waku Sky Park: A family-friendly theme park inside the airport dedicated to the beloved cartoon character Doraemon, featuring interactive attractions and a themed café.
• New Chitose Airport Onsen: Unique hot spring facility within the airport terminal with indoor and outdoor thermal baths, saunas, and restaurants serving local Hokkaido cuisine.

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6. Naha Airport (OKA) 

Naha Airport serves as the primary gateway to Okinawa, Japan’s subtropical southern islands. This important facility in the network of airports in Japan handles over 20 million passengers annually and connects the unique Okinawan culture with mainland Japan and beyond.

Address: 150 Kagamizu, Naha, Okinawa 901-0142, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XZnvzKuuhBVP3o7T8
Airport Code: OKA
Category: Domestic with international flights
Phone: +81988401151
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 6 km from Naha city

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach, Jetstar Japan, and various Asian carriers serve this tourist-friendly airport in Japan.

Terminals: One integrated terminal for domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Information desks throughout terminal
• Flight information displays
• Free Wi-Fi across the premises
• Shops with local Okinawan products
• Restaurants featuring local cuisine
• Credit card lounge for eligible cardholders
• Lost-and-found services
• Car rental counters

Nearby Attractions:

• Kokusai-dori: The 1.6km “International Street” serving as Naha’s main shopping and entertainment thoroughfare, packed with souvenir shops, restaurants, and local Okinawan crafts.
• Shuri Castle: UNESCO World Heritage site and former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, known for its distinctive red architecture and historical significance despite recent fire damage.
• Makishi Public Market: Bustling two-story market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and Okinawan specialties, where you can select ingredients downstairs and have them cooked at restaurants upstairs.
• Fukushuen Garden: Chinese-style garden symbolizing the friendship between Naha and Fuzhou, featuring ornate pavilions, stone bridges, ponds with koi fish, and lush tropical plantings.

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7. Osaka International Airport (Itami) (ITM) 

Osaka International Airport, commonly known as Itami, serves as a key domestic hub for the Kansai region. This convenient airport in Japan handles over 16 million passengers annually with a focus on domestic connections.

Address: 3 Chome-555 Hotarugaike Nishimachi, Toyonaka, Osaka 560-0036, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k1LhJLQHaXfMnoW89
Airport Code: ITM
Category: Primarily domestic flights
Phone: +81668566781
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 16 km from Osaka city

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, and other domestic carriers provide excellent connectivity from this well-situated airport.

Terminals: One integrated terminal building.

Services & Amenities:

• Restaurants and cafes with local specialties
• Shops with Osaka souvenirs
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Nursing rooms and kids’ play areas
• Observation deck
• Lounges for premium travelers
• Car rental facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Itami Sky Park: Aviation viewing park adjacent to the airport where visitors can watch aircraft takeoffs and landings while enjoying the observation deck and aviation-themed playground.
• Expo ’70 Commemorative Park: Expansive park preserving the legacy of the 1970 World Exposition with the iconic Tower of the Sun sculpture, Japanese garden, and seasonal flower displays.
• Minoo Park: Beautiful forested valley with hiking trails leading to Minoo Waterfall, especially popular in autumn for its vibrant maple leaves and flying squirrels.
• Umeda Sky Building: Distinctive landmark with a “floating garden observatory” connecting two 40-story towers, offering 360-degree views of Osaka from its open-air observation deck.

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8. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) 

Credit: Wikipedia

Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and central Japan. Built on an artificial island in Ise Bay, this outstanding facility among airports in Japan has won numerous awards for its design and services.

Address: 1 Chome-1 Centrair, Tokoname, Aichi 479-0881, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/F119fkWbmNkQX4ot8
Airport Code: NGO
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +81569381195
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 57 km from Nagoya city

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Japan, and international carriers connect this important economic region to the world.

Terminals: Main terminal plus LCC terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• 24-hour capsule hotel inside the terminal
• Public bath with views of landing aircraft
• Sky Deck observation area
• Shopping and dining, including local specialties
• Free Wi-Fi throughout facilities
• Lounges and relaxation areas
• Direct access to the train station
• Flight of Dreams Boeing 787 exhibit

Nearby Attractions:

• Centrair Sky Deck: Expansive 300m-long observation deck at the airport with panoramic views of the runway, Ise Bay, and aircraft operations, popular among aviation enthusiasts.
• Flight of Dreams: Interactive Boeing 787-themed aviation park adjacent to the airport featuring the first Boeing 787 ever built, with exhibits and Seattle-inspired dining options.
• Nagoya Castle: Historic castle dating from 1612, known for its distinctive architecture, golden shachihoko (dolphin-like) roof ornaments, and ninja experience exhibitions.
• Osu Shopping District: Vibrant covered shopping arcade with over 1,200 shops and restaurants, combining traditional merchants with modern electronics stores, alongside the historic Osu Kannon Temple.

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9. Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) 

Credit: Wikipedia

Kagoshima Airport serves as an important transportation hub for southern Kyushu. This regional facility among airports in Japan handles about 5 million passengers annually and offers beautiful views of Sakurajima volcano from the air.

Address: 822 Mizobechofumoto, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-6404, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fbqTV9m76rYTqeiH7

Airport Code: KOJ
Category: Domestic with limited international flights
Phone: +81995583111
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 39 km from Kagoshima city 

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach, and other domestic carriers provide connectivity to this southern region.

Terminals: One integrated terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• Souvenir shops featuring local products
• Restaurants and convenience stores
• Tourist information counters
• Natural hot spring footbath
• Prayer room in the international area
• Post office and money exchange
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

Nearby Attractions:

• Sakurajima: Active volcano and symbol of Kagoshima, accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride, offering hiking trails, observation points, and natural hot spring foot baths.
• Sengan-en Garden: Traditional Japanese garden and former villa of the Shimadzu clan, featuring borrowed scenery incorporating Sakurajima volcano into its landscape design.
• Kagoshima City Aquarium: Modern facility showcasing marine life from the Kuroshio Current and waters surrounding the Nansei Islands, with dolphin shows and interactive exhibits.
• Tenmonkan: Kagoshima’s central downtown shopping district filled with covered arcades, department stores, specialty shops selling local products, and restaurants serving Kagoshima’s famous black pork and sweet potato shochu.

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10. Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) 

Credit: Wikipedia

Kumamoto Airport provides essential connectivity to central Kyushu. This compact facility among airports in Japan handled approximately 3.3 million passengers in 2023 and serves as a gateway to Kumamoto’s natural and cultural attractions.

Address: 1802-2 Oyatsu, Mashiki, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto 861-2204, Japan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YuGk29DQcajk1UcM8
Airport Code: KMJ
Category: Domestic with limited international flights
Phone: +81962322311
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 20 km from Kumamoto City

Operating Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, and Solaseed Air provide domestic connectivity to this regional airport.

Terminals: Single passenger terminal.

Services & Amenities:

• Paid workspace
• Smoking areas
• Observation deck
• Wi-Fi and mobile charging
• Kids’ corner
• Tourist information center
• ATMs from multiple banks
• Relaxation space
• Baggage delivery services

Nearby Attractions:

• Kumamoto Castle: One of Japan’s three premier castles known for its impressive stone walls and reconstructed towers following earthquake damage, with informative historical exhibits.
• Suizenji Jojuen Garden: Meticulously landscaped Japanese garden created in the 17th century featuring a miniature representation of Mt. Fuji and the 53 stations of the Tokaido route.
• Shimada Museum of Arts: Museum housing an extensive collection of samurai artifacts, armor, swords, and local art, providing insights into Kumamoto’s feudal history.
• Kumamoto Contemporary Art Museum: Modern exhibition space featuring rotating displays of contemporary Japanese and international artworks, installations, and cultural events.

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Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Japan

Japan’s rail network rivals its air travel efficiency, yet flying remains the quickest way to reach distant islands and far-flung prefectures. After touching down at airports in Japan, you’ll find yourself within easy reach of the country’s most beautiful destinations. 

Here are the famous tourist stops that define any memorable Japanese adventure.

Place	Location	Highlights
Kyoto	Kansai	Temples, shrines, geisha, and tea ceremonies
Tokyo	Kanto	Modern cityscape, shopping, technology, and pop culture
Mount Fuji & Hakone	Chubu	An iconic mountain, hot springs, and scenic views
Hiroshima	Chugoku	Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island
Naoshima	Seto Inland Sea	Contemporary art, architecture, and island scenery

Kyoto (Kansai Region)

Kyoto served as Japan’s imperial capital for over 1,000 years and remains the heart of traditional Japanese culture. The city features over 1,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

You’ll find stunning landmarks like the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famous for its gold leaf exterior, and Fushimi Inari Taisha with thousands of vermilion gates. Gion district offers glimpses of geisha tradition, while peaceful gardens provide spaces for reflection.

Best For: History lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking cultural experiences.

Tokyo (Kanto Region)

Tokyo blends ultramodern and traditional elements, creating a unique urban experience. You can explore ancient temples, shop in fashionable districts like Shibuya and Ginza, or experience cutting-edge technology.

Must-visit spots include the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views, the Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum. The city’s efficient public transportation makes exploring its many diverse neighborhoods easy.

Best For: Urban adventurers, foodies, and technology enthusiasts.

Mount Fuji & Hakone (Chubu Region)

Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji is the country’s tallest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding Hakone area offers hot springs, scenic Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Ropeway with breathtaking mountain views.

You can stay in traditional ryokan inns, enjoy open-air bathing with mountain views, and experience Japanese hospitality at its finest. The region provides perfect settings for relaxation and nature appreciation.

Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking relaxation.

Hiroshima (Chugoku Region)

Hiroshima stands as a powerful symbol of peace and resilience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer moving tributes to the atomic bombing victims, while the preserved A-Bomb Dome serves as a stark reminder of history.

Nearby Miyajima Island features the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, beautiful forested mountains, and friendly deer that roam freely. The city also offers excellent local cuisine, including okonomiyaki.

Best For: History enthusiasts and those interested in peace education.

Naoshima (Seto Inland Sea)

Naoshima has transformed from a small fishing island to a world-class destination for contemporary art. The island features remarkable museums designed by acclaimed architect Tadao Ando, including Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House.

Outdoor art installations, including Yayoi Kusama’s famous yellow pumpkin sculpture, dot the landscape. The blend of cutting-edge art with traditional island life creates a unique cultural experience in Japan.

Best For: Art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in Japan?

Major airports in Japan offer various lodging options, from budget to luxury. Tokyo Haneda has the Royal Park Hotel inside Terminal 3, while Narita features capsule hotels and rest houses. Most top airports in Japan provide convenient hotel shuttles to nearby accommodations.

What are some of the facilities at Japanese airports?

Japan airport facilities include duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, and children’s play areas. The best airports in Japan also provide unique amenities like observation decks, cultural exhibitions, and even hot spring baths at New Chitose Airport.

How does automated immigration work at Japanese airports?

Automated gates at airports in Japan use facial recognition technology and passport scanning for faster processing. Eligible travelers with registered biometric data can self-process through immigration, reducing wait times at Haneda, Narita, and other international terminals.

What are the transportation options available from airports in Japan?

Airport transportation in Japan includes high-speed rail connections, airport limousine buses, taxis, and car rentals. Haneda connects to Tokyo via monorail and subway lines, while Narita offers express trains to central Tokyo. Most top airports in Japan provide integrated public transport systems.

How long does a Japanese tourist visa last?

Japanese tourist visas typically allow stays of 90 days, depending on your nationality. Many travelers visiting airports in Japan can enter visa-free through a temporary visitor status. 

What items cannot be brought into Japan?

Japan enforces strict rules at all airports in Japan regarding prohibited items. These include narcotics, firearms, certain medications, counterfeit goods, and agricultural products carrying diseases. All food and agricultural items must be declared upon arrival.

What is the best way to exchange currency at Japanese airports?

Currency exchange services at airports in Japan typically offer competitive rates with small fees. ATMs accepting international cards are available at all major terminals, though some have limited hours. Consider exchanging a small amount at your arrival airport for immediate needs.

Which are the nearest airports to popular Japanese destinations?

The main airports in Japan serving popular destinations include Tokyo Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT) for Tokyo, Kansai International (KIX) for Kyoto and Osaka, and New Chitose (CTS) for Hokkaido ski resorts. Regional airports provide convenient access to southern destinations.

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a Japanese airport?

For lost items, immediately contact the airport’s lost property office. The best airports in Japan maintain efficient lost-and-found systems with multilingual staff. Report your lost item with detailed descriptions and when/where you believe it was lost.