Completely renovated for the first time in about 50 years. Let us guide you through the beautiful and functional "new" Itami Airport.

When you arrive, you may feel like you are in an international airport overseas.

Customers who land at Itami Airport may be surprised by the baggage claim area, where advertising digital signage is neatly arranged (Map 1). The conveyor belt that carries the baggage is larger than at other airports, giving the impression of an international airport overseas. The incline makes it easy to pick up heavy baggage. The reborn Itami Airport incorporates the most cutting-edge elements in Japan. Customers who have not used the airport in a while will be amazed at how much it has changed.

As you pass through the arrival lobby, you will come across a huge signage art (Map 2). A stainless steel structure stretches up to the ceiling, and the geometric frame is illuminated with dazzling digitally drawn flashes of light, welcoming passengers. This is one of the iconic artworks of the new Itami Airport.

Car and bike rentals are now available

Now, let us introduce the exterior renovation points. The exterior may look almost the same, but in fact, small changes have been made to the glass and exterior walls. The biggest change outdoors is that a rental car car pool has been added to the airport. And the first airport in Japan to have an airport-affiliated rental bike station has also started operations (Map 3). You can leave promptly when you arrive, and return your vehicle directly to the airport when you return.

A new access road has also been installed from the parking area (Map 4). This is based on the runway at Itami Airport. The "32L" sign is the actual runway number (indicator sign) at Itami Airport. By the way, it is lit up at night, making it a hidden airport attraction that looks great in photos.

Under the connecting passageway, there is a flush toilet for dogs, which is rare in Japan (Map 5). The toilet pole is automatically cleaned after the dog uses the toilet. This has been well received by customers with pets.

A spacious departure lobby and smooth flow to the security checkpoint

Once you enter the first floor of the airport building, you will be greeted by a spacious impression. The departure lobby now has higher ceilings and has been renovated to create a more open and airy space (Map 6). This is where JAL plans to introduce its latest equipment, "SMART AIRPORT," which has already been introduced at Haneda Airport's Terminal 1. It will be equipped with automated baggage drop-off machines with conveyor belts and automated check-in machines that can be operated without touching a finger, greatly improving convenience.

There is an escalator in the center of the atrium, and as you go up, the security checkpoint is on your right. On the opposite side, on the left, is "THE GIFT HALL," which consists of four stores, including souvenir shops and cafes (Map 7).

In addition to the first class counter at the security checkpoint, there is also a counter for the Diamond Premier Lounge (Map 8). The flow of traffic to each security checkpoint has been designed so that passengers can go directly from the monorail station. A distinctive feature of this renovation is that the sales and food and beverage areas have been arranged with consideration given to the flow of customers.

A newly renovated lounge with a kids' space and a variety of relaxing facilities

Furthermore, if you arrive a little early, you can relax inside the airport building. On the second and third floors of the central block (pictured is the third floor), there is a food court with many popular restaurants from the Kansai region (Map 9).

The rooftop observation deck is also equipped with a fountain and a kids' area, allowing families to enjoy spending time together while watching the planes take off (Map 10).

When you depart, you can use the Smart Lanes to speed up your security check (Map 11). Simply place your jacket and carry-on baggage on a long conveyor belt and it will be automatically scanned by the X-ray machine, making your security check quicker than ever before.

Prior to this renewal, the Sakura Lounge and Diamond Premier Lounge were renovated in 2019 (Map 12). Guests are greeted by a digital installation called "Spatial Calligraphy and Cranes" created by teamLab.

The interior design incorporates a "Japanese atmosphere" concept. It has been renovated to create an open atmosphere with a panoramic view of the runway. There are now 320 seats (160 seats in each lounge), which is about 1.5 times the number of seats available before.

Take a break before boarding in Japan's first walk-through commercial area

Before boarding, why not take a look at the souvenir shops and food court? The renovation has created a "walk-through commercial area" that is the first of its kind at a domestic airport, making it feel like you are passing through a commercial facility on your way to the boarding gate. This lively area, which was not available at the previous Itami Airport, also has a food court.

There will be 14 stores, where you can enjoy freshly baked sweets and meals from famous restaurants. If you forgot to buy souvenirs, you will surely be able to find products that will satisfy you in this area.

You can also use the new moving walkway on the concourse to get to the boarding gate (Map 14). There is also a large table equipped with power outlets near the boarding gate, which is convenient for family gatherings or pre-departure meetings.

Experience a cutting-edge airport with a difference

The new Itami Airport has been redesigned from every angle, with new tenants such as restaurants opening at an airport for the first time, stress-free traffic flow, and beautiful design. Furthermore, further updates to enhance functionality are planned for the future.

If you use this airport for travel or business, be sure to take note of the points we have introduced here. We are sure you will come to understand that this airport has a unique charm that sets it apart from the many other domestic airports.