Fly to Paradise: HK Express Resumes Seasonal Route to Miyako (Shimojishima) in 2025

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape to Japan’s pristine Miyako Islands, HK Express has exciting news! The Hong Kong-based low-cost airline is bringing back its seasonal direct flights to Miyako (Shimojishima), offering travelers a convenient and budget-friendly way to reach this Okinawan gem. Starting June 27, 2025, and running through October 24, 2025, this exclusive route is your ticket to turquoise waters, coral reefs, and island adventures. Here’s everything you need to know about the relaunched route and why it’s a must for your 2025 travel plans.

HK Express: Your Gateway to Miyako (Shimojishima)

HK Express is the only airline offering non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Miyako (Shimojishima), making it the easiest way to reach the Miyako Islands. This seasonal route connects Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) with Shimojishima Airport (SHI), a gateway to the interconnected islands of Shimojishima, Miyako, and Irabu, linked by scenic bridges like the 3.5-km Irabu Bridge. Whether you’re a beach lover, snorkeling enthusiast, or just craving a tropical getaway, this route is designed to get you there hassle-free.

Flight Details

• Schedule: Four weekly round-trip flights will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, perfectly timed for weekend getaways or longer vacations.
• Flight Times:
  • Outbound: Depart HKG at 2:10 PM, arrive SHI at 5:25 PM (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes).
  • Return: Depart SHI at 6:10 PM, arrive HKG at 7:35 PM.
• Seasonal Operation: June 27, 2025, to October 24, 2025, aligning with the warm summer months ideal for exploring Miyako’s beaches and marine life.

The flight schedule is traveler-friendly, with afternoon departures from Hong Kong allowing you to maximize your morning and evening arrivals in Miyako giving you ample time to settle in and start your island adventure. The return flight’s evening departure ensures you can squeeze in a full day of exploration before heading back to Hong Kong.

Budget-Friendly Fares

HK Express is known for its affordability, and the Miyako route is no exception. To celebrate the route’s relaunch, the airline rolled out a limited-time promotion on February 26, 2025, offering round-trip Lite fares starting at just HKD 296 (including one small personal item and one cabin bag). If you missed that deal, keep an eye out for another one-day promotion on April 10, 2025, featuring one-way tickets as low as HKD 0 (excluding taxes and fees) for travel between June 5 and October 25, 2025.

To snag these deals, book directly through the HK Express website (www.hkexpress.com) or mobile app. Promotional fares are limited, so act fast to secure the best prices!

Why This Route Matters

The Miyako (Shimojishima) route strengthens HK Express’s presence in Okinawa, making it the only airline to connect Hong Kong to all three major Okinawan airports: Naha, Ishigaki, and Miyako (Shimojishima). This exclusivity gives travelers unparalleled access to Okinawa’s diverse islands, from the bustling capital of Naha to the remote beaches of Miyako. Shimojishima Airport’s proximity to Miyako Island (just a short drive across the Irabu Bridge) makes it an ideal entry point for exploring the Miyako Islands’ stunning coastlines and cultural attractions.

For Hong Kong residents, this route is a game-changer. It offers a quick, direct escape to a tropical paradise without the hassle of connecting flights. Plus, with HK Express’s low-cost model, you can plan a dreamy island getaway without breaking the bank.

Explore More of Japan with HK Express

In addition to Miyako (Shimojishima), HK Express connects Hong Kong to a range of exciting destinations across Japan, perfect for urban adventures, cultural immersion, or nature escapes. Here’s a list of their current Japanese destinations (as of April 2025, based on available information):

• Fukuoka: A vibrant city known for its street food, historic temples, and proximity to Kyushu’s natural beauty.
• Ishigaki: Another Okinawan gem, famous for its coral reefs, diving spots, and laid-back island vibes.
• Kagoshima: A coastal city with stunning views of Sakurajima volcano and relaxing hot springs.
• Nagoya: A hub of history and innovation, home to Nagoya Castle and the Toyota Museum.
• Naha: Okinawa’s capital, blending urban energy with access to nearby beaches and Ryukyu culture.
• Osaka: A foodie paradise with iconic landmarks like Dotonbori and Universal Studios Japan.
• Tokyo (Haneda and Narita): Japan’s bustling capital, offering everything from ancient shrines to cutting-edge tech.
• Takamatsu: A gateway to Shikoku’s art islands, serene gardens, and udon noodle culture.

With these destinations, HK Express makes it easy to explore Japan’s diverse regions, from the tropical south to the cosmopolitan north. Check the HK Express website for the latest routes and schedules, as their network may expand.

Final Thoughts

The return of HK Express’s seasonal route to Miyako (Shimojishima) is a fantastic opportunity for Hong Kong travelers to discover one of Japan’s most beautiful island destinations. With four weekly flights, unbeatable promotional fares, and the convenience of non-stop travel, this route is set to make summer 2025 unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a quick beach escape or a multi-island adventure, HK Express has you covered.

Ready to book? Head to www.hkexpress.com to secure your tickets and start dreaming of Miyako’s crystal-clear waters. And with HK Express’s extensive Japan network, you can easily plan your next Japanese adventure, from Tokyo’s neon lights to Ishigaki’s coral shores. Where will you fly next?

I have traveled with HK Express a few times, and recently posted a quick review of my experience here.