Get Ready to Explore Okinawa!

Hong Kong-based airline HK Express is thrilled to debut a new route to Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture. Beginning operations today, on 26 September 2019, the highly anticipated new link will operate daily for added flexibility and convenience.

Ready to sneak away on a tropical adventure? HK Express is pleased to offer a special introductory deal of HKD178* when booking a return ticket, available until 29 September (23:59) with an eligible travel period from 30 September to 17 December 2019.

The excitement has been percolating all month long! A few days before the inaugural flight, between 20 and 22 September, HK Express drove its “Okinawa Ice-Cream Truck” around Hong Kong, passing out complimentary cotton candy-topped ice cream cones. Hundreds of HK Express fans posted pictures of their sweet treats on Instagram for a chance to win a free return flight from Okinawa. The five winners will be announced on HK Express’ Facebook page tomorrow, on 27 September. Stay tuned here: facebook.com/HKExpress.

Today, the good vibes followed HK Express to Hong Kong International Airport where representatives greeted the route’s very first passengers with smiles and souvenirs. CEO of HK Express Mandy Ng and Commercial Director Jonathan Hutt were joined by VIPs such as Sudo Daichi, Consul of the Consulate-General of Japan in Hong Kong; Hiroshi Yakumaru, Executive Director or Japan National Tourism Organization in Hong Kong; and Mutsumi Nakasone, Director of the Okinawa Prefecture Government Hong Kong Office.

The Hong Kong-Okinawa route provides another entry point to Japan’s beloved tropical archipelago. Indeed, Okinawa has always been one of the most sought-after destinations by Hongkongers, owing to its pristine beaches, sunny skies and beautiful blue waters. In the heart of it all is Naha, a slow-paced city that oozes coastal charm. The culture in this seaside metropolis varies dramatically from that of Kyoto or Tokyo. Instead of soaring skyscrapers or ancient temples, picture rows of palm trees, wide-open promenades, and unique dining experiences such as ‘taco rice’ and awamori, an indigenous spirit that’s nicknamed ‘island sake’. Of course, traditional experiences are never too far away. Visit the beautifully restored Shuri Castle and Tsuboya Pottery Street, where you can watch the masters at work, for a peek into the past.

Taking advantage of HK Express’ expanding route network throughout the Okinawa archipelago, travellers can book multi-stop tickets for the ultimate island-hopping experience. With the launch of this route, HK Express now operates flights to three distinct destinations – Okinawa, Miyako (Shimojishima) and Ishigaki – across the islands, so you can combine city life with a bit of snorkelling, diving, and sand-in-your-toes relaxation. Have more time? Combine palm-fringed Okinawa with exciting Japanese destinations, such as Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Osaka or Tokyo to really dive into the country’s diverse culture and heritage.

“From tropical islands to historic cities, volcanoes and hot springs, the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to exploring Japan. As one of the most popular destinations among Hongkongers, we strive to make the country’s most charming corners more accessible with these new routes,” said Mandy Ng, CEO of HK Express. “We are excited to add Okinawa to our expanding list of 13 destinations and counting. We hope this new route inspires our guests to explore this beautiful corner of the world.”