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Overview of the Latest Air Freight Services from China to Japan

Major airports in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, offer direct and connecting air freight services from China to Japan through airlines like Air China, China Southern Airlines, Japan Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. The transportation time typically ranges from 1 to 5 days, depending on flight types and customs clearance. Air freight prices vary by airport and market fluctuations, with some airports also providing charter services to meet specific needs.

 

Chinese Airports Offering Air Freight Services from China to Japan

The following Chinese airports provide air freight services from China to Japan:

Airport

City

Province / SAR

Beijing Capital International Airport

PEK

Beijing

Beijing City

Shanghai Pudong International Airport

PVG

Shanghai

Shanghai City

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

CAN

Guangzhou

Guangdong Province

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport

SZX

Shenzhen

Guangdong Province

Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport

XMN

Xiamen

Fujian Province

Fuzhou Changle International Airport

FOC

Fuzhou

Fujian Province

Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport

TAO

Qingdao

Shandong Province

Nanjing Lukou International Airport

NKG

Nanjing

Jiangsu Province

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport

HGH

Hangzhou

Zhejiang Province

Wuhan Tianhe International Airport

WUH

Wuhan

Hubei Province

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport

CGO

Zhengzhou

Henan Province

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

CKG

Chongqing

Chongqing City

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

CTU

Chengdu

Sichuan Province

Kunming Changshui International Airport

KMG

Kunming

Yunnan Province

Hong Kong International Airport

HKG

Hong Kong

Hong Kong SAR

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): As China's busiest international aviation hub, it features three terminals and three runways, with a cargo area exceeding 1 million square meters. It boasts an extensive route network connecting to numerous global cities, including multiple flights to Japan. As a key node for air freight services from China to Japan, it offers direct all-cargo flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other destinations, along with a bonded logistics center to support efficient cross-border cargo transfers.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Located in Shanghai's Pudong New Area, it is a vital international aviation hub in eastern China. The airport has advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system, capable of handling large volumes of freight. With frequent flights to Japan, it provides a stable and reliable channel for air freight services from China to Japan, serving as a major gateway for exports from the Yangtze River Delta region.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): Situated in Guangzhou's Baiyun District, it is a key aviation hub in southern China. The airport features a comprehensive cargo network and state-of-the-art logistics facilities, ensuring efficient handling of various freight types. With dense routes and frequent flights to Japan, it offers convenient air freight services from China to Japan, making it a primary channel for exports from the Pearl River Delta region.
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX): A major aviation hub in southern China, this airport has seen rapid development in recent years, with continuously improving cargo capacity. Its routes to Japan are expanding, and flight frequency is gradually increasing. Thanks to its strategic location and efficient logistics system, air freight services from China to Japan departing from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport can quickly reach major Japanese cities, meeting the freight needs of enterprises in the Pearl River Delta region.
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN): Located in Xiamen's Huli District, it is a key aviation hub in southeastern China, benefiting from free trade zone policies. The airport has long-standing route partnerships with Japan, offering stable flights and high transport efficiency. Its advanced cargo facilities and comprehensive logistics services provide robust support for air freight services from China to Japan, making it a preferred choice for exports from Fujian and surrounding areas.
Fuzhou Changle International Airport (FOC): As Fujian's primary international airport, its cargo capacity has improved in recent years, with optimized routes and increasing flight frequencies to Japan. Its convenient transport network and efficient logistics services ensure smooth air freight services from China to Japan, facilitating exports for local and neighboring regions.
Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO): A key air cargo hub on the Shandong Peninsula, it features advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system capable of handling large freight volumes. With dense routes and frequent flights to Japan, it provides a stable and reliable channel for air freight services from China to Japan, serving as a major gateway for exports from Shandong and surrounding areas, as well as a critical node for China-Japan-Korea trade.
Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG): An important cargo airport in the Yangtze River Delta, it includes a bonded logistics center. The airport has a well-developed cargo network and advanced logistics facilities, ensuring efficient handling of various freight types. With stable routes and increasing flight frequencies to Japan, it offers convenient air freight services from China to Japan, serving as a key channel for exports from the Yangtze River Delta region.
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH): A major aviation hub in eastern China, it is a vital center for e-commerce logistics. The airport has advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system, with multiple routes to Japan. It provides a convenient transport channel for goods from Zhejiang and surrounding regions, featuring high-capacity cargo handling and storage facilities to meet diverse client needs. It is a key gateway for exports from the Yangtze River Delta region to Japan.
Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH): A core cargo hub in central China, it boasts a well-developed international cargo route network. The airport has comprehensive cargo facilities and advanced logistics systems, ensuring efficient handling of various freight types. With optimized routes and increasing flight frequencies to Japan, it offers convenient air freight services from China to Japan, supporting manufacturing exports from central China.
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO): A key aviation hub in central China, it has seen rapid development in recent years, with continuously improving cargo capacity. Its routes to Japan are expanding, and flight density is gradually increasing. Thanks to its strategic location and efficient logistics system, air freight services from China to Japan departing from Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport can quickly reach major Japanese cities, meeting the freight needs of enterprises in the Central Plains region.
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG): A major cargo hub in southwestern China, it features a well-developed international cargo route network. The airport has advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system, capable of handling large freight volumes. Air freight services from China to Japan primarily serve high-value products like laptops and auto parts, making it a key gateway for exports from southwestern China to Japan.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU): An important aviation hub in western China, its cargo throughput has steadily grown. The airport has a comprehensive cargo network and advanced logistics facilities, ensuring efficient handling of various freight types. With stable routes and increasing flight frequencies to Japan, it offers direct cargo flights, transporting goods via passenger aircraft bellies or dedicated freighters, supporting logistics needs for the electronics and information industries.
Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG): Located in Kunming's Guandu District, it is a key aviation hub in southwestern China. The airport has advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system, capable of handling large freight volumes. As a hub facing Southeast Asia, it also operates cargo routes to Japan, primarily transporting time-sensitive goods like flowers and fresh produce, making it a key channel for exports from southwestern China to Japan.
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): Situated on Lantau Island in Hong Kong, it is one of Asia's most important aviation hubs. The airport features advanced cargo facilities and an efficient logistics system, capable of handling large freight volumes. With its free port policy and well-developed logistics network, it serves as a key transit point for air freight services from China to Japan, particularly suited for high-value, time-sensitive goods.
Major cargo airports in Japan include:

Airport

City

Narita International Airport

NRT

Tokyo

Kansai International Airport

KIX

Osaka

Chubu Centrair International Airport

NGO

Nagoya

Fukuoka International Airport

FUK

Fukuoka

New Chitose Airport

CTS

Sapporo

Narita International Airport (NRT): Japan's most important international gateway, featuring comprehensive cargo facilities and 24/7 operations. It handles approximately 60% of Japan's international air cargo, serving as a core hub for air freight services from China to Japan. It primarily processes high-value goods like electronics, auto parts, and advanced manufacturing products.
Kansai International Airport (KIX): The largest air cargo hub in western Japan, its strategic location and efficient air-sea transport system make it a vital gateway for international trade in the Kansai region. In the air freight network from China to Japan, Kansai Airport focuses on electronics, pharmaceuticals, and cross-border e-commerce goods.
Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO): The central air cargo hub for Japan's Chubu region, including the Nagoya metropolitan area. Leveraging its proximity to manufacturing giants like Toyota, it primarily handles industrial products such as auto parts and precision instruments in air freight services from China to Japan.
Fukuoka International Airport (FUK): Plays a significant role in logistics for western Japan, particularly serving the manufacturing, electronics, and cross-border e-commerce industries in Kyushu. It is also a common transit point for air freight services from China to Japan, primarily transporting time-sensitive electronics and precision machinery.
New Chitose Airport (CTS): Japan's northernmost international airport and the aerial gateway to Hokkaido. Given Hokkaido's focus on agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, New Chitose Airport's cargo operations emphasize perishable goods (e.g., seafood, dairy) and cold chain logistics.

 

Airlines Operating Air Freight Services from China to Japan

Multiple airlines worldwide operate air freight services from China to Japan, leveraging their unique resources and advantages:

  • Air China (CA)
  • China Southern Airlines (CZ)
  • China Eastern Airlines (MU)
  • Spring Airlines (9C)
  • Shenzhen Airlines (ZH)
  • Hainan Airlines (HU)
  • Sichuan Airlines (3U)
  • Xiamen Airlines (MF)
  • Cathay Pacific (CX)
  • EVA Air (BR)
  • China Airlines (CI)
  • All Nippon Airways (NH)
  • Japan Airlines (JL)
  • Peach Aviation (MM)
  • Skymark Airlines (BC)
  • Korean Air (KE)
  • Asiana Airlines (OZ)
  • Singapore Airlines (SQ)
  • Qatar Airways (QR)
  • Emirates (EK)
  • Turkish Airlines (TK)
  • Cargolux (CV)
  • Delta Air Lines (DL)

Below are detailed introductions to these airlines:

  • Air China (CA): As the flagship carrier of China's aviation industry, Air China is headquartered in Beijing and operates an extensive global route network. It offers multiple cargo routes from Beijing, Shanghai, and other cities to major Japanese destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. With comprehensive ground services and efficient logistics, it ensures fast and accurate delivery, playing a pivotal role in trade between China and Japan.
  • China Southern Airlines (CZ): One of China's largest airlines by fleet size and route coverage, it is headquartered in Guangzhou, with major hubs at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. It operates numerous air freight services from China to Japan, with direct flights from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and other cities to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. Its efficient operations and high-quality service are well-regarded in the industry.
  • China Eastern Airlines (MU): Headquartered in Shanghai, it operates from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport, with a global route network. It offers dense cargo routes from Shanghai, Nanjing, and other cities to multiple Japanese destinations, meeting diverse client needs. By optimizing processes and improving service quality, it provides reliable air freight services from China to Japan.
  • Spring Airlines (9C): A Chinese low-cost carrier based in Shanghai, it leverages its routes to popular Japanese tourist destinations for partial cargo transport. It offers cost-effective options for budget-sensitive shipments while exploring opportunities to expand its cargo business.
  • Shenzhen Airlines (ZH): Based in Shenzhen, it operates domestic and limited international routes. Leveraging Shenzhen's geographic and economic advantages, it offers cargo routes to Tokyo, Osaka, and other Japanese cities, serving as a convenient channel for exports from the Pearl River Delta, particularly in electronics and apparel.
  • Hainan Airlines (HU): A subsidiary of HNA Group, it is headquartered in Haikou. It operates cargo routes to Japan from Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and other cities, offering diverse transport solutions. Its high-quality service and efficient operations secure its share in the China-Japan cargo market, contributing to bilateral trade.
  • Sichuan Airlines (3U): Headquartered in Chengdu, it operates from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, with routes covering domestic and international destinations. It offers cargo routes from Chengdu to Tokyo, Osaka, and other Japanese cities, facilitating trade for western Chinese enterprises. It excels in transporting specialty agricultural products and electronics, gradually gaining prominence in the China-Japan cargo market.
  • Xiamen Airlines (MF): Jointly established by the Civil Aviation Administration of China and the Fujian provincial government, it is headquartered in Xiamen, with Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport as its base. It operates cargo routes from Xiamen, Fuzhou, and other cities to Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Its regional advantages and strong reputation support local exports, particularly in seafood and handicrafts.
  • Cathay Pacific (CX): Hong Kong's flagship carrier, based at Hong Kong International Airport, operates a global route network. It has mature routes and comprehensive services for air freight services from China to Japan, with frequent cargo flights from Hong Kong to Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama. It specializes in high-end electronics and fashion items, renowned for its premium and efficient service in the international cargo market.
  • EVA Air (BR): A Taiwanese airline headquartered in Taoyuan, it operates from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, with routes spanning Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It offers cargo routes from Taoyuan to Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, providing end-to-end freight solutions through global logistics partnerships. It excels in transporting electronic components and precision instruments.
  • China Airlines (CI): Taiwan's largest airline, headquartered in Taoyuan, operates from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. It offers multiple cargo routes from Taiwan to Japan, facilitating efficient trade between Taiwan, mainland China, and Japan. It specializes in agricultural products and textiles, holding a significant position in East Asia's air cargo market.
  • All Nippon Airways (NH): One of Japan's largest airlines, headquartered in Tokyo, operates from Narita International Airport and Kansai International Airport. It offers high-frequency cargo routes from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other Chinese cities to Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Known for premium service and efficient logistics, it excels in transporting advanced manufacturing and electronics, earning strong client trust.
  • Japan Airlines (JL): Japan's flagship carrier, headquartered in Tokyo, operates a global route network. It offers numerous air freight services from China to Japan, with direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and other major Chinese cities to Japanese destinations. With extensive experience in cargo transport, it prioritizes service quality and safety, specializing in auto parts, medical equipment, and other industries.
  • Peach Aviation (MM): A Japanese low-cost carrier based in Osaka, operating from Kansai International Airport, primarily serving domestic and regional Asian routes. It has actively expanded its cargo business in recent years, offering new options for air freight services from China to Japan, particularly for small and lightweight shipments.
  • Skymark Airlines (BC): A Japanese airline based in Tokyo, operating from Haneda Airport. It offers limited cargo routes from select Chinese cities to Japan. While its cargo scale is modest, it caters to niche markets like perishable foods and specialty handicrafts, providing tailored services.
  • Korean Air (KE): South Korea's largest airline, headquartered in Seoul, operates from Incheon International Airport. Through partnerships with Chinese and Japanese airports and logistics firms, it offers connecting cargo routes via South Korea, providing diverse transport options. It excels in shipping auto parts and electronics.
  • Asiana Airlines (OZ): A major South Korean airline, headquartered in Seoul, operates from Incheon International Airport. While not focused on air freight services from China to Japan, it offers some routes, collaborating with logistics partners in China, South Korea, and Japan. It specializes in high-end electronics and precision instruments.
  • Singapore Airlines (SQ): Singapore's national carrier, based at Changi Airport, offers air freight services from China to Japan. Leveraging its Singapore hub, it provides efficient transit services, meeting diverse client needs for timeliness and quality. It excels in transporting electronics and premium consumer goods.
  • Qatar Airways (QR): Qatar's national carrier, based at Hamad International Airport, offers air freight services from China to Japan via Doha. Its global network and efficient logistics provide additional transport options, specializing in petrochemicals and high-end construction materials. It is renowned for premium service and strong transport capabilities.
  • Emirates (EK): A major UAE airline, based at Dubai International Airport, offers air freight services from China to Japan via Dubai. Leveraging its hub status, it handles large and heavy shipments, specializing in luxury goods and automobiles. Its efficiency and quality service earn client trust.
  • Turkish Airlines (TK): Turkey's national carrier, operating from Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul New Airport, offers select air freight services from China to Japan via its Middle Eastern hub. It specializes in textiles and construction materials, expanding its presence in the East Asian cargo market.
  • Cargolux (CV): A Luxembourg-based all-cargo airline, it offers air freight services from China to Japan, focusing on efficient and reliable transport for industrial products like electronics and machinery parts. Through global logistics partnerships, it ensures fast and secure deliveries.
  • Delta Air Lines (DL): A major U.S. airline, based at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, offers cargo routes from Shanghai and other Chinese cities to Tokyo. Leveraging its global network and logistics resources, it provides end-to-end freight solutions, specializing in electronics and biopharmaceuticals. Its efficient operations and advanced logistics management are highly regarded.

 

Transit Time for Air Freight Services from China to Japan

1. Direct Flights
Direct flights offer the shortest transit time for air freight services from China to Japan, ensuring rapid delivery.

  • Beijing:
    • Tokyo Narita/Haneda Airports: ~2.5 hours.
    • Osaka Kansai Airport: ~2.5 hours.
    • Nagoya Chubu Airport: ~3 hours.
  • Shanghai:
    • Tokyo Narita Airport: ~3 hours.
    • Osaka Kansai Airport: ~2.5 hours.
    • Sapporo New Chitose Airport: ~4.5 hours.
  • Shenzhen:
    • Tokyo Haneda/Narita Airports: ~4 hours.
    • Osaka Kansai Airport: ~4 hours.

2. Connecting Flights:

  • Via Incheon: Total flight time ~4–7 hours.
  • Via Hong Kong: Total flight time ~5–8 hours.
  • Via Singapore: Total flight time ~11–14 hours.

3. Customs Clearance Time

  • China Export Clearance: Typically 0.5–1 day (faster with complete documents and e-declaration).
  • Japan Import Clearance: Typically 1–2 days (note: food and pharmaceuticals require additional quarantine, adding 1–3 days). Low declarations or document issues may cause delays.
  • Recommendation: Prepare complete documents (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, etc.) in advance.

4. Special Circumstances

  • Weather/Air Traffic Control: Typhoon season (July–October) may cause 1–3-day delays.
  • Peak Season Congestion: Year-end e-commerce peaks (e.g., Singles' Day, Black Friday) may lead to airport cargo backlogs.
  • Special Cargo:
    • Hazardous goods require additional approvals (+2–5 days).
    • Oversized cargo requires hold coordination (possible 1–2 flight delays).

5. Total Transit Time

  • Direct Flights: With smooth customs, total transit time is typically 1–3 days, including flight time, clearance, and last-mile delivery.
  • Connecting Flights: Including layovers and potential clearance delays, total transit time may extend to 2–5 days. Under exceptional circumstances (e.g., weather delays or clearance issues), transit time may exceed 10 days.

6. Summary
Transit time for air freight services from China to Japan depends on multiple factors. Direct flights significantly reduce flight time but are not available from all cities. Connecting flights expand coverage but add layover time. Customs clearance is a critical post-arrival step, influenced by document preparation and cargo type. Unpredictable factors like weather or emergencies may further impact transit time. Overall, air freight from China to Japan typically takes 2–5 days but may extend under certain conditions.

 

Charter Flights for Air Freight Services from China to Japan

Charter flights offer flexible solutions for air freight services from China to Japan:

Departure Airport

Destination Airport

Operating Airlines

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

Air China (CA)
All Nippon Airways (NH)

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

Air China (CA)
China Eastern Airlines (MU)
China Southern Airlines (CZ)
Japan Airlines (JL)
All Nippon Airways (NH)

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)
Delta Air Lines (DL)

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
Fukuoka International Airport (FUK)
Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Shenzhen Airlines (ZH)
China Airlines (CI)
EVA Air (BR)
Asiana Airlines (OZ)

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
Fukuoka International Airport (FUK)
Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Cathay Pacific Airways (CX)
China Airlines (CI)
Ethiopian Airlines (ET)
Philippine Airlines (PR)

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

Sichuan Airlines (3U)

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

Hainan Airlines (HU)

Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

Xiamen Airlines (MF)

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)

Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

China Southern Airlines (CZ)

Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX)

Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Zhongzhou Airlines (I9)

Weihai Dashuibo International Airport (WEH)

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

Zhongzhou Airlines (I9)

Below are detailed descriptions of charter flights from each airport to Japan:

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK):
    • Main Destinations: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya Chubu (NGO).
    • Main Carriers: Air China (CA), All Nippon Airways (NH).
    • Features & Recommendations: As a major hub, it offers abundant flight resources and mature routes. Air China, as a leading domestic carrier, ensures reliable on-time performance and service quality. All Nippon Airways is renowned for its high service standards. Clients should choose flights based on urgency and cargo requirements, communicating special needs in advance.
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG):
    • Main Destinations: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya Chubu (NGO).
    • Main Carriers: Air China (CA), China Eastern (MU), China Southern (CZ), Japan Airlines (JL), All Nippon Airways (NH).
    • Features & Recommendations: The airport has advanced cargo facilities and dense routes covering multiple Japanese cities. The three major Chinese airlines ensure efficient cargo transfers, while Japanese carriers excel in domestic networks and ground services. Clients should book space early, especially during peak seasons.
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN):
    • Main Destinations: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX).
    • Main Carriers: China Southern (CZ), Delta Air Lines (DL).
    • Features & Recommendations: China Southern operates frequent flights from its Guangzhou base, ensuring efficient cargo handling. Delta provides additional options and potential联运 opportunities. Clients should compare rates and terms to select the best carrier for their cargo.
  • Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX):
    • Main Destinations: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya Chubu (NGO), Fukuoka (FUK), Sapporo New Chitose (CTS).
    • Main Carriers: Shenzhen Airlines (ZH), China Airlines (CI), EVA Air (BR), Asiana Airlines (OZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: The airport offers broad destination coverage. Shenzhen Airlines responds quickly to local market needs, while EVA Air and China Airlines have strong regional networks. Asiana Airlines excels in transit coordination. Clients should consider destination and timing when selecting carriers.
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG):
    • Main Destinations: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya Chubu (NGO), Fukuoka (FUK), Sapporo New Chitose (CTS).
    • Main Carriers: Cathay Pacific (CX), China Airlines (CI), Ethiopian Airlines (ET), Philippine Airlines (PR).
    • Features & Recommendations: As a global hub, it offers extensive route options. Cathay Pacific is renowned for its premium international cargo services. China Airlines excels in cross-strait and Asian routes. Ethiopian and Philippine Airlines provide alternative transit paths. Clients should review flight schedules for optimal planning.
  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: Sichuan Airlines (3U).
    • Features & Recommendations: Sichuan Airlines offers convenient flights from Chengdu, minimizing transit needs. Clients should monitor cargo policies and promotions to reduce costs.
  • Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: Hainan Airlines (HU).
    • Features & Recommendations: Hainan Airlines is known for its high service standards. Clients should communicate with the airline to understand cargo acceptance procedures.
  • Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: Xiamen Airlines (MF).
    • Features & Recommendations: Xiamen Airlines is praised for its service quality and strong local market presence. Clients should select flights based on urgency, as the airline maintains high on-time performance.
  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Southern (CZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: China Southern operates mature routes from Hangzhou, ensuring stable services. Clients should book space early, especially during e-commerce peaks.
  • Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Southern (CZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: As a key central Chinese city, Wuhan benefits from China Southern's efficient routes. Clients should monitor seasonal flight adjustments for optimal planning.
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Southern (CZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: Zhengzhou is a major logistics hub. Clients should leverage the airport's facilities for streamlined storage and transport arrangements.
  • Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Southern (CZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: China Southern's operations in Chongqing support local cargo needs. Clients should explore freight discounts to reduce costs.
  • Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Southern (CZ).
    • Features & Recommendations: As a gateway to Southeast Asia, Kunming benefits from China Southern's routes to Japan. Clients should align shipments with local trade patterns.
  • Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX):
    • Main Destination: Osaka Kansai (KIX).
    • Main Carrier: China Central Airlines (I9).
    • Features & Recommendations: China Central Airlines offers direct flights to Osaka, reducing transit time. Clients should maintain close communication for flight updates.
  • Weihai Dashuibo International Airport (WEH):
    • Main Destination: Tokyo Narita (NRT).
    • Main Carrier: China Central Airlines (I9).
    • Features & Recommendations: The airport serves Weihai and surrounding areas. Due to its smaller size, clients should complete cargo procedures early to ensure smooth transit.

 

Pricing for Air Freight Services from China to Japan

Prices for air freight services from China to Japan vary by flight, carrier, cargo weight, and other factors. Below are reference prices:

Departure

Destination

Carrier

Frequency

Air Cargo Price ($/kg)

Transit

45KG+

100KG+

300KG+

500KG+

1000KG+

PVG

NRT

9C

DAILY

2.35

1.38

1.31

1.31

1.31

PVG

KIX

9C

DAILY

2.35

1.38

1.31

1.31

1.31

PVG

NGO

9C

DAILY

2.21

1.45

1.38

1.31

1.24

CAN

NRT

HU

DAILY

2.43

1.80

1.36

1.19

1.03

HAK

CAN

NRT

CZ

DAILY

2.56

1.93

1.50

1.33

1.17

DLC

CAN

NRT

FD

D12456

3.35

2.62

2.46

2.39

2.39

DMK

CAN

NRT

CI

DAILY

4.24

2.69

2.53

2.39

2.25

TPE

CAN

KIX

HU

DAILY

2.17

1.33

1.15

1.08

1.08

PEK

CAN

KIX

CZ

DAILY

2.36

1.73

1.29

1.12

0.96

HRB

CAN

KIX

FD

D12456

3.55

2.62

2.46

2.39

2.39

DMK

CAN

KIX

CI

DAILY

4.24

2.69

2.53

2.39

2.25

TPE

CAN

NGO

CZ

DAILY

2.43

1.66

1.36

1.19

1.03

DLC

CAN

NGO

CI

DAILY

4.24

2.69

2.53

2.39

2.25

TPE

CAN

FUK

CI

DAILY

4.24

2.69

2.53

2.39

2.25

TPE

SZX

NRT

O3

D123456

1.86

1.59

1.45

1.45

SZX

NRT

ZH

DAILY

3.64

2.14

1.93

1.86

1.86

SZX

NRT

CI

D13457

3.98

2.56

2.35

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

NRT

BR

D36

7.85

2.69

2.49

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

KIX

ZH

DAILY

3.64

1.51

1.38

1.31

1.31

SZX

KIX

O3

D123456

2.21

1.93

1.80

1.80

NRT

SZX

KIX

CI

D13457

3.98

2.56

2.35

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

KIX

BR

D36

7.85

2.69

2.49

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

NGO

ZH

DAILY

3.64

1.80

1.45

1.17

1.17

SZX

NGO

CI

D13457

3.98

2.56

2.35

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

FUK

CI

D13457

3.98

2.47

2.35

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

FUK

BR

D36

7.85

2.69

2.49

2.20

2.06

TPE

SZX

CTS

ZH

DAILY

3.64

1.92

1.52

1.17

1.17

SZX

CTS

CI

D13457

3.98

2.56

2.35

2.20

2.06

TPE

XIY

NRT

O3

D6

1.17

0.97

0.83

0.83

HKG

NRT

TG

DAILY

5.60

3.89

3.00

2.83

2.77

BKK

HKG

NRT

OM

DAILY

7.54

3.82

3.05

2.52

2.37

UBN

HKG

NRT

5X

DAILY

6.51

5.78

5.65

5.48

SZX

HKG

KIX

TG

DAILY

5.66

3.95

3.06

2.90

2.84

BKK

HKG

KIX

5X

DAILY

6.51

5.78

5.65

5.48

SZX

HKG

KIX

OM

DAILY

7.54

3.82

3.05

2.52

2.37

UBN

HKG

NGO

TG

DAILY

5.66

3.95

3.06

2.90

2.84

BKK

The following is a summary of air freight prices from China to Japan:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

    • Overall Price Range: 1.24 - 2.35 /kg
    • Main Operating Airlines: Spring Airlines (9C)
    • Features and Suggestions:
      • All direct - flight routes, with the most transparent and stable price system.
      • The best choice in East China, suitable for small - to medium - batch general cargo.
      • It is recommended to give priority to this option, especially for conventional goods such as electronic products.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

    • Overall Price Range: 0.96 - 4.24 /kg
    • Main Operating Airlines: China Southern Airlines (CZ), Hainan Airlines (HU), China Airlines (CI)
    • Features and Suggestions:
      • The price span is the largest, with obvious differences between direct flights and transfer flights.
      • The direct - flight prices of CZ/HU are the most competitive.
      • It is the first choice for cross - border e - commerce goods. It is recommended to avoid the high - price transfer scheme of CI.

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX)

    • Overall Price Range: 1.17 - 7.85 /kg
    • Main Operating Airlines: SF Airlines (O3), Shenzhen Airlines (ZH), China Airlines (CI)
    • Features and Suggestions:
      • The price advantage of SF Airlines' special line is prominent.
      • The price for small batches is relatively high, but the larger the batch, the more preferential the price.
      • It is recommended for high - value electronic products and urgent items.

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

    • Overall Price Range: 0.83 - 1.17 /kg
    • Main Operating Airlines: SF Airlines (O3)
    • Features and Suggestions:
      • The lowest - price range in the whole market.
      • Suitable for large - batch goods in Northwest China.
      • It is necessary to confirm the flight cargo space situation in advance.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

    • Overall Price Range: 2.37 - 7.54 /kg
    • Main Operating Airlines: Thai Airways (TG), UPS (5X)
    • Features and Suggestions:
      • The prices are generally 30 - 50% higher than those of mainland airports.
      • It is only recommended for special goods or situations where shipment from Hong Kong is necessary.
      • It is advisable to give priority to TG flights, which have a relatively good cost - performance ratio.

Core Findings:

  • The prices of mainland airports are significantly better than those of Hong Kong (the price difference can reach 3 - 5 times).
  • Spring Airlines (9C) and SF Airlines (O3) maintain the lowest - price advantage.
  • There are the most direct - flight route options in East and South China.
  • For sensitive goods, it is recommended to choose special lines of domestic airlines such as CZ/MU.
  • During the peak season, it is necessary to book 2 weeks in advance to ensure cargo space and price.

 

Air Freight Prices from Major Chinese Cities to Japan in February 2025

  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): 1.9 - 2.5 $/kg
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): 2.2 - 2.8 $/kg
  • Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX): 2.3 - 3.3 $/kg
  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 2.3 - 3.1 $/kg
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): 2.5 - 3.5 $/kg
  • Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG): 2.4 - 3.4 $/kg