Vietjet Air launches Hanoi to Shizuoka route
Want a faster route to Mount Fuji? Vietjet Air started nonstop flights between Hanoi and 静岡 (Shizuoka, Shizuoka) on April 28, 2026, linking Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) with Shizuoka Airport, IATA code FSZ.
Hand on heart, this is one of the clearest travel-news hooks of the year, a practical international route to what many call the Fuji gateway. The reason is simple: fewer transfers, shorter overall travel time, and more choices for fans of Mount Fuji, 桜 (sakura, cherry blossom) season, and local ryokan stays.
Route basics and timetable
Compared to back home, you might expect fewer flights to smaller regional airports, but this one matters. Vietjet Air confirmed the April 28 start in press coverage, and the new service operates as a point-to-point international connection, offering an alternative to the usual Tokyo hubs.
But let's stick with route facts for now. The service connects HAN and FSZ with scheduled nonstop flights. For planning, check the airline's official timetable on Vietjet Air and the main report on the launch from Mainichi.
Why Shizuoka Airport matters for Mount Fuji travellers
Picture this: you step off the plane at FSZ, and Mount Fuji feels closer than ever. Shizuoka Airport positions you within easy reach of central Shizuoka, the Izu Peninsula, and northern approaches to Mount Fuji, making it very attractive for photography trips, hiking, and calm onsen escapes.
Here's the kicker: avoiding a Tokyo transfer can shave hours off your door-to-door time. And it gets better: local trains, highway buses, and rental cars from FSZ make it straightforward to reach popular spots like Mishima, Gotemba, and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
My tip? If you want fewer crowds and better photos, plan visits outside peak sakura and autumn 紅葉 (koyo, autumn foliage) weeks. From my experience, early spring or late autumn weekdays are the sweet spot for clearer views and smaller crowds.
Connections and travel times
Imagine a narrow alley in Tokyo, then contrast that with quiet coastal drives in Shizuoka. Travel times from FSZ to key locations are practical: buses to Shizuoka city take around 45 minutes, while travel toward the Fuji Five Lakes area is typically longer and may require a transfer. Personally, renting a car at FSZ can be the most flexible option when exploring mountain roads and rural towns.
Practical travel and language tips for the route
It's early morning in Kyoto. You check your phone for the new Vietjet schedule, and you realise this route opens fresh options for both short trips and longer itineraries. Quick detour: remember basic visa and entry rules for Vietnam and Japan; they can affect ticket choices, so confirm requirements before you book.
Basically, pack light, expect regional airport procedures to be faster than major hubs, and have printed or screenshot directions from FSZ to your first stop. What I especially like is that using simple romaji phrases makes first contacts easier. Try 'すみません (sumimasen, excuse me / sorry)' for excuse me, 'お願いします (onegai shimasu, please)' for please, and 'ありがとう (arigato, thank you)' for thank you, all in romaji if you're still learning 日本語 (nihongo, Japanese language).
Compared to flights that land in Tokyo, this option is often cheaper on time and stress, though pricing varies by season and promotions. Check Vietjet Air offers and local accommodation options, from family-run minshuku to more formal ryokan with onsen access.
Booking and savvy tips
Here's one practical move: watch for introductory fares around launch dates. Airlines often promote new international routes with discounted seats. Insider tip: subscribe to Vietjet's newsletter and set price alerts; it can save you money on peak-season travel to the Fuji region.
What I especially like is the chance to mix Vietnam and Japan visits into one trip. For example, you could enjoy time in Hanoi city followed by a quieter week near Mount Fuji. Simply brilliant for curious travellers who want both urban energy and mountain calm.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Hanoi to Shizuoka flight start?
Vietjet Air launched the direct service on April 28, 2026.
Which airports are connected by the route?
The route links Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (HAN) with Shizuoka Airport (FSZ).
Do I need to transfer in Tokyo?
No, the flight is nonstop between HAN and FSZ, avoiding Tokyo transfers for this leg.
