This was posted 9 years 2 months 5 days ago, and might be an out-dated deal.

Juneyao Air: Sydney to Seoul, South Korea from $463 Return, Jeju from $551 Return (Jan-Mar) via Shanghai @ Beat That Flight
- +13
- 21/11/2024 - 08:23
- 14
Trip.com: up to 15% Cashback on Hotels & Flights (Upcapped) @ ShopBack
- +19
- 20/11/2024 - 12:26
- 32
Flights to New Zealand (e.g. SYD→AKL from $278 One-Way) @ Air New Zealand
- +8
- 20/11/2024 - 09:52
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Singapore Airlines Rtn to Singapore: PER fr $460, MEL fr $673, BNE fr $676, SYD fr $683, ADL fr $699 @ flightfinderau
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- 20/11/2024 - 07:24
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Hainan Airlines Return: MEL/SYD to Guangzhou $489/ $529, Beijing $493/ $533, Chengdu $493/ $533, Xi'an $493/ $533 & More @ BTF
- +11
- 19/11/2024 - 09:29
- 7

expired

Jetstar Return for Free: Tokyo/Osaka ex Cairns $249, Melb/GC $349, Bris $408, Syd $442, Adl $460

3360

Jetstar Return for Free: Tokyo/Osaka ex Cairns $249, Melb/GC $349, Bris $408, Syd $442, Adl $460

jonishere on 17/09/2015 - 02:11 jetstar.com (13870 clicks)

Jetstar have just started a 'Return for Free' sale. Search for a return flight to Tokyo or Osaka and selected flights back to Australia will be available for $0. Prices and dates listed below:

Departing Cairns

Osaka from $249:

26 Oct 2015 - 09 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 24 Dec 2015)
17 Dec 2015 - 24 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 24 Dec 2015)
02 Feb 2016 - 02 May 2016 (Return flights until 27 Apr 2016, and from 04 May 2016 to 14 Jul 2016)
09 May 2016 - 14 Jul 2016 (Return flights until 14 Jul 2016)

Tokyo from $249

11 Nov 2015 - 03 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 21 Dec 2015)
08 Mar 2016 - 02 May 2016 (Return flights until 28 Apr 2016, and from 04 May 2016 until 14 July 2016)
09 May 2016 - 14 Jul 2016 (Return flights until 14 July 2016)

Departing Gold Coast

Tokyo from $349

22 Oct 2015 - 20 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 20 Dec 2015)
13 Mar 2016 - 01 May 2016 (Return flights until 28 Apr 2016, and from 05 May 2016 until 14 July 2016)
09 May 2016 - 30 Jun 2016 (Return flights until 14 July 2016)

Departing Melbourne (Tullamarine)

Tokyo from $349/$449

14 Oct 2015 - 22 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 25 Dec 2015) From $449
11 Apr 2016 - 17 Jun 2016 (Return flights until 30 Jun 2016) From $349

Osaka from $431 (via Cairns)

26 Oct 2015 - 09 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 21 Dec 2015)
16 Feb 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016)

Departing Brisbane

Osaka from $408 (via Cairns)

26 Oct 2015 - 09 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 22 Dec 2015)
16 Feb 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016)

Tokyo from $408 (via Cairns)

11 Nov 2015 - 03 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 21 Dec 2015)
08 Mar 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016)
09 May 2016 - 22 Jun 2016 (Return flights until 22 Jun 2016)

Departing Sydney

Osaka from $442 (via Cairns)

26 Oct 2015 - 09 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 20 Dec 2015)
16 Feb 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016)

Tokyo from $442 (via Cairns)

11 Nov 2015 - 03 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 20 Dec 2015)
08 Mar 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016)
09 May 2016 - 22 Jun 2016 (Return flights until 22 Jun 2016)

Departing Newcastle

Tokyo from $431/$531 (via Melbourne)

26 Oct 2015 - 15 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 20 Dec 2015) From $531
09 May 2016 - 17 Jun 2016 (Return flights until 22 Jun 2016) From $431

Departing Adelaide

Tokyo from $460/$463 (via Melbourne/Cairns)

11 Nov 2015 - 03 Dec 2015 (Return flights until 21 Dec 2015) From $463, via Cairns
08 Mar 2016 - 22 Mar 2016 (Return flights until 22 Mar 2016) From $463, via Cairns
05 May 2016 - 14 Jun 2016 (Return flights via Cairns until 14 Jun 2016) From $460, via Melbourne (Tullamarine)

Travel Airfare Asia Japan Osaka Tokyo

24 Sep 2015 1:33pm

Related Stores

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closed Comments

- piggyfund on 17/09/2015 - 18:15
  
  +1
  
  you will love it!
shiznit on 17/09/2015 - 16:58

I noticed $0 Fish and chips on some of my flights and added it, keep an eye out for it. You can add after you've confirmed the booking too.
- fatming on 17/09/2015 - 17:52
  
  Only $24 meals for me: jap pork curry, beef bourgonoin or spinach & ricotta canoli
RussellPeters on 17/09/2015 - 17:56

+1

Great deal! Don't forget to bring back some good Japanese whiskey at good discount :)
Was there in March this year, highly recommend Airbnb, especially if you are traveling with a big family.
- fatming on 17/09/2015 - 20:29
  
  Any particular accommodation u recommend on airbnb?
- abadacus on 20/09/2015 - 14:40
  
  Whiskey recommendations?
  - blongle on 21/09/2015 - 15:46
    
    17yo Hibiki, $170 here, much cheaper there.
  - simulacrum on 22/09/2015 - 11:14
    
    There are a few less common ones that are really interesting if you see them try Ichiro's malt and Akashi white oak
CryssieJade on 17/09/2015 - 18:53

Thanks OP!!

Just booked my first trip to Japan (for a well earned skiing/backpacking trip) for a month!! Been waiting for a sale like this!!
ab83 on 17/09/2015 - 19:05

+1

2 weeks in June. Booked! Very excited even though it's 9 moths away :(
Michael1983 on 17/09/2015 - 19:19

+2

Booked 3 weeks in June 2016 travelling from Brisbane to Tokyo,
In between spent 1.5 weeks in Russia to play with bears, drinking vodka and hugging russian beauties in the night clubs.
$1607 for family of 2 adults and 2 kids
chb on 17/09/2015 - 19:21

is it possible to go from like brisbane to osaka and return via tokyo with the special fare?

I had a go, but couldn't get it to work, not sure if i was doing it wrong?
- iSamurai on 17/09/2015 - 20:55
  
  I would love to do that as well, but it seems like the free return fare is only shown when you make a standard round trip booking.
9674784 on 17/09/2015 - 19:34

Has anyone had their itinerary email and Windows Mail pick it up as a suspected phishing email?

I know a couple years back there were hoax emails and Jetstar issued a statement saying do not open the email/attachment as they never send itineraries as a pdf attachment. Is Windows Mail just basing it's find on this?

My Jetstar email today arrived a few minutes after my purchase and the only attachment is a tax invoice.
nubzy on 17/09/2015 - 20:28

Is 1-2 weeks a good amount of time for a first time visitor? Should stay in Tokyo and travel around on a rail pass or stay in different cities? Such a good deal..
- piggyfund on 17/09/2015 - 20:45
  
  +3
  
  1 week in Tokyo is good, 2 weeks is better if you want to make trips out to other towns. If you go to Kyoto or Osaka etc you will probably need to stay over. If it is your first time to Japan you may need a day or so just to absorb everything and get use to the rail system etc.
- wxia6 on 18/09/2015 - 15:01
  
  I will see real Japan in Kyoto. I recommend you should stay longer in Kyoto and Kansai.
kakarot on 17/09/2015 - 20:57

+1

If you've made a booking already (a few weeks ago before the tickets went on sale), is there any way to refund and get this deal instead?

I bought 4 tickets so it would literally save me >$1k

:(
- piggyfund on 20/09/2015 - 17:53
  
  urgh, soo annoying when this happens
Yanoflies on 17/09/2015 - 21:30

Which CC has the best free travel insurance?
- piggyfund on 20/09/2015 - 17:55
  
  Be careful about these CC insurances, there's a lot of restrictive terms and conditions. For example my friend was in a taxi accident in NYC and had some whiplash so decided to go to the hospital/doctors. Was not covered as he didn't pay for the taxi on Cr card. Seeing Japan works on a cash economy, just read the T&Cs carefully.
  - Yanoflies on 20/09/2015 - 19:27
    
    Gonna shoot with a standalone policy — not like it's expensive for the peace of mind.
yasui on 17/09/2015 - 22:53

If anyone is going to Hokkaido, this "Hokkaido Premium Ticket" is a bargain. 10000yen value of voucher is sold at 6000yen. http://www.go-to-hokkaido.com/en/about/
- yasui on 17/09/2015 - 22:54
  
  OZB posting guideline says "DEALS that are available to Australia"
  Should I create a new deal?
  - letmecry on 17/09/2015 - 23:37
    
    I dont understand the samples of usage
    If you shop for 8500 then you have to pay 8000 + 1000 voucher
    or using tourist facilities (something) 1200 then you still have to pay 1000 + 1000 voucher
    - yasui on 18/09/2015 - 18:47
      
      You can buy 10000yen worth if voucher at 6000yen.then use it at a tourist attraction,hotels, even shopping centre. 40% off is very good value
    - Future Kids on 18/09/2015 - 22:03
      
      They are in a booklet of ten 1000yen vouchers.
      If you shop for 8500yen, pay with eight vouchers and 500yen.
pyramid on 17/09/2015 - 23:21

Totally lost and I have no clue on where to stay in Tokyo for 7 nights. Budget is around $100 per night.
- Yanoflies on 17/09/2015 - 23:29
  
  That's half the fun mate.
  - pyramid on 17/09/2015 - 23:36
    
    Hahaha..Booked Hotel MyStays Hamamatsucho for a time being.
- watwatwat on 18/09/2015 - 00:05
  
  I went to Japan for 2.5 weeks and only left with 1 days accommodation booked. Booked a few days at a time at different places via Hostelworld whilst travelling around.
  - altomic on 18/09/2015 - 11:41
    
    just be careful about last minute bookings when it is a public holiday in Japan. sometimes it can be near impossible to find a place.
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 12:08
      
      Yes, do some research. A few festivals attract over 1 million to small cities.
      
      Peak travel times like Golden Week (around start of May) & Bon (mid-August) - people travel back to their ancestral home, can mean no transport or accommodation.
      
      I've seen many travellers surprised by this in the popular but relatively small tourist city of Kyoto. There may be some left, but all the best will be long gone. It all depends on where & when you travel.
    - altomic on 18/09/2015 - 12:15
      
      +2
      
      @Infidel: Emergency accommodation Tip if you're travelling by yourself or with a buddy (who isn't fussy about where they sleep) -i.e. not kids, then certain internet cafes provide for a relatively cheap but ok accommodation. that is, some internet cafes have booths with comfy chairs which you can "rent" over night. some of these cafes even have a bathroom with a shower and sell toothbrushes.
      
      years ago I used one in Shibuya.
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 13:46
      
      @altomic:
      Tried that once. Now I sometimes travel with light weight tent, sleeping bag, down filled mat & stove (3.5kg total). Have slept in parks, by stations, on beaches - problem solved for me. Gives me the flexibility to go beyond the tourist trails.
      
      Used to just carryon with old 10kg limit. Could still fit in for 7kg limit, but it's pushing it.
      
      Checked my carryon weight for this trip (I'm always prepared for travel) - just 3kg at the moment including clothes (most worn onto flight) including thermals & walking + dress shoes, day pack, chargers, Onsen towel & toiletries, petty well everything I need… I used to carry 30kg 10 years ago!
    - watwatwat on 18/09/2015 - 14:02
      
      Actually, now that you say that, I remember getting screwed around a lot because of the student holiday over there. Was very annoying sometimes. But this technique works better in other countries.
89tnp on 18/09/2015 - 00:06

Decided to skim and go with duffel bag to avoid the baggage fees.

Also FYI, I got a bit of a shock when I looked at bullet train prices. A 14 day pass costs around $550AUD, so factor this in to your budget as I'm told the train is the best way to travel between cities. I'm in a pickle as I'm staying 17 days and a 21 day pass is another $120 or so on top of the 14 day pass.
- iceblock333 on 18/09/2015 - 00:24
  
  I think the best solution in your situation would be to spend first and last 2 days in the city you arrive/leave in. Then travel and explore the other cities for the other 17 days.
  - 89tnp on 18/09/2015 - 00:53
    
    +1
    
    Not a bad idea, but still trying to set up my itinerary.
    
    So far I have:
    
    Osaka
    Kyoto
    Nara
    Hiroshima
    Tokyo
    
    Looking to do Tokyo for close to 7 days. Never been, traveling solo, little daunted about the language barrier!
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 02:05
      
      +1
      
      I've been to Japan many times (cheap Jetstar flights) but still haven't learnt more than a few basic words. I've never had any real problems as a sole traveller. It's always a wonderful adventure.
      
      And I hitchhike in remote regions from little islands of Okinawa to the tiny islands to the North of Hokkaido, as well as occasional visits to the cities. People have been so helpful, that I haven't got around to learning more language.
      
      I did buy a 7 day JR Pass once, but it's not for me. I kept wanting to get the most value from it, rather than my usual travel style, which I make up as I go along. It's best to understand what type of travel suits you.
    - aerona on 18/09/2015 - 03:34
      
      i'll join you
    - Incrediho on 18/09/2015 - 09:50
      
      My first real international solo travel as well (going for 18 days myself)! I'm more than a little daunted by some elements of the trip but I think (hope) it will be an enjoyable "thrown in the deep end" kind of experience.
      
      My plan is a few days in Toyko on arrival then activate a 14 day JR pass and start hitting pretty much every city you have there.
    - piggyfund on 18/09/2015 - 11:07
      
      I would buy the lower rail pass, it will work out cheaper than trying to get to all those places by flights and buying separately. Traveling around Tokyo, if you are in a central area you probably won't spend much on trains per day anyway so be careful when you validate the pass. You will be fine! You will love it.
- MissKitty on 18/09/2015 - 00:25
  
  Depending when you're going, and if you don't mind skipping some bullet trains, the Seishun 18 is a cheap way to get around. Note that the 5 days do not need to be continuous.
  
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seishun_18_Ticket
  - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 00:47
    
    Most travellers don't have the time for journeys on the slow trains the Seishun 18 is limited to. Very popular with frugal students & good in rural areas.
    
    It can be confusing as I have often had to change trains at small stations, and announcements are only in Japanese. By the time I work out the announcement was that I should change trains, the other train had left.
    
    But it's a cheap alternative for those with more time than money & enjoy the charms of slow travel.
    - iceblock333 on 18/09/2015 - 00:53
      
      "The Seishun 18 allows unlimited rides on local and rapid JR trains (excluding reserved seats) throughout Japan from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south."
      
      I'm guessing the rapid JR trains aren't that rapid then?
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 01:11
      
      +1
      
      @iceblock333:
      There are many categories of trains - stopping or not stopping at intermediate stations. Local stop at all stations & are most basic, but usually don't travel too far & certainly aren't fast. (Good for meeting the locals.)
      
      Rapid (skipping smaller stations) usually operate within a city or to neighbouring areas (eg Osaka-Kyoto). Longer distance is via express trains - not valid for that ticket. Often you need to catch a series of local & rapid trains to cover distance. Uni students love to tell you how early they start to catch all those trains for a long days journey.
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 09:45
      
      @iceblock333:
      rapid JR trains (excluding reserved seats)
      Some rapid trains only have reserved seats at almost twice the price, even when none are available.
      
      Check timetables & fares - you can set type of travel & compare travel times. Shinkansen often come into Shin-cityname, but have good connecting services. It's a handy travel site, as you can limit options to just JR services for JR Pass & these tickets.
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 01:05
  
  +2
  
  Long distance transport costs are high in Japan. That's why I have suggested in other discussions to explore a region. That way you can base yourself somewhere central & use local transport.
  
  Around Osaka I often buy the Kintetsu Wide Pass (¥5860 = au$68 only available at airport!) when I arrive at KIA. Covers 5 days in Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya region, plus return train any time from airport, & more. Cheap business hotels (basic clean room for 1 from au$20/n - check backpacker accommodation sites) in Osaka make a good base to explore from & are much cheaper than Kyoto.
  
  Used that pass in 2013 to base myself in Osaka, popping over to a festival at my favourite shrine, Ise-Jingu, south of Nagoya, & beaches further south around Toba (includes bus pass for that region). Was great value.
  
  Before Christmas I was paying under $150/wk for a room in an apartment in Tokyo - handy for rail excursions. 6week holiday cost $380/wk including much dearer airfares.
  
  It's the cost of travel that can blow the budget in Japan.
iceblock333 on 18/09/2015 - 00:27

+2

I'm booked!!! So excited! My first Japan trip. Thank you soooo much for posting.
Osaka 3rd December - 16th December

If anyone knows of any special events around that time would love to hear about it.
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 01:42
  
  +1
  
  Best to mention where you are going / interests, there are so many festivals & events. Osaka has its own information & events calender & a good Tourist Information Centre. Osaka makes a great base for Kyoto & my favourite Nara - by cheap trains.
  
  Google festivals etc for your locations. There are plenty of useful sites. When you're there, pop into the helpful Tourist Information Centres. If you ask they can often arrange a Goodwill Guide (needs advanced booking or is at set times) to show you around (free, but buy them a meal or something - I've had one show me amazing sights for 8 hours during a festival in Nara).
  
  To the south of Osaka is the World Heritage listed ancient mountain walks of the Kumano Kodo. A wonderful experience on so many levels.
  
  But everyone's idea of a good time is different… I'm hoping there will be another class in Rakugo (in English) when I visit for the Sakura (cherry blossom) in March-April. I attended their first & was on TV performing the traditional storytelling / comedy. Japanese place emphasis on respect. So my attempt at a 400 year old art form gained a bit of attention from locals. But as many visitors discover, travelling in Japan you get used to attracting attention :-)
  
  Happy travels!
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 07:52
  
  +1
  
  Many places have discount offers for overseas tourists. Ask at the tourist Information Centres (TIC). I've got 1/2 price accommodation, free local gifts like lacquered chop sticks, and great advice.
  
  There is the Amazing Osaka Campaign until January 2016. The city of Osaka pays 1/2 the price of certain 1 day trips in Osaka. Now those aren't cheap activities, like Yamamoto Noh Theater, Michelin 1-star restaurant Le Pont De Ciel & a night cruise (1-Day), night view cruise, Osaka Duck Tour by amphibious bus with Japanese-style lunch (1-day), etc. (Not for me. I love traditional festivals which are usually free & have festival food & drinks.)
  
  There are also 1 & 2 day discounted passes to some Osaka tourist sites & activities, which can be ok. Ask your accommodation or TIC.
  - altomic on 18/09/2015 - 11:46
    
    be wary of Noh. it's captivating in an extremely subtle way but at the same time stale/decadent and can be boring - unless you know what to look for. e.g. the way an actor turns his head or holds a fan.
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 12:12
      
      +1
      
      That's why the discounted introductory tour above may be good. Nuance is everything in some art forms. Most Japanese I meet understand less of their own culture than I expected.
rakkihizoku on 18/09/2015 - 02:31

Is the weather good in late May? Thinking of going for 10 days from the 20th
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 02:58
  
  Golden week is about the busiest travel time in Japan - at the start of May.
  "However, the remainder of May is one of the best times for visiting Japan, as the vegetation has become lush, the temperatures are still comfortable and tourists spots tend to be pleasantly uncrowded. In Hokkaido, the progress of spring is delayed by about one month compared to Tokyo. At the other end of the country, in Okinawa, the rainy season (tsuyu) typically lasts from early May to mid June." http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2273.html
  Or so I posted over 3 years ago in a Jetstar deal ;-) Previous deals can be useful.
INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 03:37

+3

Some of my thoughts about travelling in Japan from previous Jetstar deals…
Hitchhiking, camping & other cheap accommodation
How not to get lost & the joys of getting lost in Japan
Attitudes by some Japanese people to outsiders
Don't forget to take long baths at Onsen & Sento!

Looking forward to 4 weeks back in Japan, thanks to this deal :-)
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 08:30
  
  +2
  
  A few tips for OzBargainers…
  
  Frugal locals get excited by free offers, although they refer to free as 'zero Yen'. Free usually means included in ticket price, not really free. So a 'free pass' on a bus system is a paid one day ticket, not free.
  
  Enter buses by rear door, collecting ticket from machine which displays zone you boarded. Unless it is a fixed price fare, the amount will be shown on the fare board at the front of the bus. So if you boarded in zone 3, look under 3 on the fare board. The longer the trip, the higher the price will tick up to. Exit from front door, placing zone ticket with exact change in machine. There's a change machine to first change larger coins & some notes.
  (Tourists usually take trains, avoiding this confusion.)
  
  And prices displayed in shops, restaurants, & some dearer accommodation are generally plus 8% consumption tax. Tipping is not done. But gift giving is a national industry.
  
  So '1 coin' / '¥100' shop prices are usually ¥108, but some stock may be dearer. Still some weird & interesting bargains.
  
  In restaurants you may be offered a fork, as most Japanese consider their ways (like using chopsticks) are too difficult for Foreigners to master. I've been fed wonderful freshly caught fish by fishermen who were amazed that Foreigners ate raw fish. Free sashimi :-) After a few good laughs, the alcohol flows just as freely.
  
  Mastery of Japanese language is great, but I've survived many trips sometimes in remote areas, knowing only a few basic words. I can't even string a simple sentence together :-( Laughter is pretty universal, and generally when language fails, there's a lot of laughter.
  
  It's a good idea to have a few cheap Aussie trinkets to give to people who help you - they usually will, unless shy. Tourist shop koalas bought very cheap by the dozen are gratefully accepted, except by accommodation places which have drawers full of koalas. These can clip onto your business/ name card. (I have a stack of name cards printed almost free by Vistaprint.)
  The koala is well known in Japan, as it is used around schools to indicate the need for safety. I also gave out kangaroo key chains, but the first child spat the dummy as he wanted a koala not a rat ;-)
  - altomic on 18/09/2015 - 11:49
    
    +1
    
    can you eat japanese food?
    can you use chopsticks?
    
    me "domoarigato"
    Japanese person "oh, you speak Japanese so well"
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 12:16
      
      itadakimasu
    - altomic on 18/09/2015 - 12:19
      
      @Infidel: Irasshaimase
P4phantom on 18/09/2015 - 09:24

Just booked our tickets (June 2016) - Thanks JetStar and thanks OP for posting it :)
we're 6 adults & 2 Children travelling for 9 days.
Travelling to Japan for first time …… will research on what to see & do over there as we've got plenty of time left.
However, glad to know any suggestions from fellow OZbargainers !!!
khelddar on 18/09/2015 - 09:26

Going to Japan in June now, Thanks OP, Ill have some Sake for you :)
heyimsu on 18/09/2015 - 09:30

Do i need to do anything special? I can't figure how to get $0 return flight. Looking at travelling from Brisbane to Osaka on the 19th Feb for about 2 weeks.
- piggyfund on 18/09/2015 - 10:57
  
  If you can't see $0 return flights it means they may be sold out for that time of year or it is not available for the period you are planning to travel. Try other dates if possible. My parents tried for April but no success so they managed to get some in May for $0 return. Keep trying with different dates.
Myocard on 18/09/2015 - 10:10

Just booked my tickets for the wife and I yesterday - so excited to be going to Japan in Cherry Blossom season! Booked return tickets ex MEL for just $550 per person. Was looking just a month ago and it was $1100 per person! 50% off woo hoo!!
- INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 11:16
  
  It's a great time to visit - my favourite so I booked that time. Sakura viewing dates vary with season, location & altitude.
  
  I've followed the Sakura zensen (front of blossoms, shown in pink on weather maps) from Kyushu to the top of Honshu, but was too early for the blossom in Hokkaido. Hope you are lucky with your choice of dates.
  
  The popularity means good or cheaper accommodation may book out in peak viewing cities like Kyoto.
  
  Japanese book up to a year ahead to ensure good, cheaper, convenient hotel rooms for their party. No one wants to lose face by missing booking for the right place. It can be stressful being Japanese.
  - grab_ur_freebies on 18/09/2015 - 12:33
    
    +1
    
    Off topic, but welcome back! Missed seeing your insightful travel comments on travel especially Japan related ones. Love so much about Nippon. You should start a travel blog or do vlogs on YT.
    - INFIDEL on 18/09/2015 - 13:33
      
      I'd rather be travelling ;-)
      
      Thanks. You spotted me despite a usernamename change. Well I was Infidel years ago & recently another username.
      Got to love Nippon.
gutenmuach on 18/09/2015 - 10:33

Still no deal from Perth?!
Paul Atreides on 18/09/2015 - 10:56

+1

FYI all, luggage AFTER booking is about 50% more expensive.
rakkihizoku on 18/09/2015 - 11:07

Do the flights change often? Last night i checked for Melbourne to Tokyo around April to May and they were fully booked out.
So instead i booked for end of May to June.
Just checked this morning and they are available and empty again
maybeamacy on 18/09/2015 - 11:21

This is a great deal - went to Japan with the 2 for 1 deal posted here and loved it! Would recommend to anyone.
autolux on 18/09/2015 - 17:06

was looking march and may yesterday, had a 2 week march return trip to tokyo for $398…

looks like all the return for $0 dates have almost gone……
slknv on 18/09/2015 - 18:44

Went to osaka in may this year from the last 2for1 deal - loved it!

tried to talk my wife into booking yesterday, and by the time she agreed tonight our preferred dates had gone :( still, booked for 2 weeks into tokyo may 2016, though had to pay quite a bit more each for dates we could manage. I snooze, I lose… still a good price though compared to normal rates.
- DaTa on 18/09/2015 - 22:04
  
  I snoozed and ended up still getting some for melb to osaka late April I was there in May this year also :)
  Feel bad for going to the same place again but how can I refuse 349 return.
- INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 13:47
  
  Information for next time you book… you can place a booking on HOLD for 48 hours. This was mentioned earlier in this deal.
  
  I put my ticket on hold, as only 1 set of dates suited, while I checked I could go. Paid via Poli for flight a few hours later. Knowing you have a cheap flight at a good price waiting is a relief.
  
  Of course if everyone did that it would make booking a good flight much harder, so I won't include the details, but it's not hard to work out.
JayM on 18/09/2015 - 22:11

+6

Stuff it, can't find anyone to go with so going by myself.
- piggyfund on 19/09/2015 - 09:56
  
  +1
  
  Japan is a great place to travel solo
  - JayM on 19/09/2015 - 10:11
    
    Going to be weird as all of my previous holidays have involved travelling with someone. I need that other person to motivate me and to have different ideas on what to do. Last time I went was in 2009 and my friend and I did the backpackers thing and met some pretty cool people.
    
    With the amount of Anime i watch, i'm surprised i'm not fluent in Japanese by now :P
    - piggyfund on 22/09/2015 - 11:58
      
      +2
      
      If you are really into anime, unless the person you go with is into it as well it may bore them so Japan is your oyster. No doubt you will hit up Akihabara, Nakano, Ikebukero and there are some amine themed cafes and food in convenience stores to check out. I even think there are anime themed cup noodle. You will be so absorbed exploring you won't feel lonely. The only thing is you may want to share the memories with friends as they may not believe some of the stuff you will see but you can always take photos :)
    - INFIDEL on 22/09/2015 - 14:00
      
      +2
      
      @piggyfund:
      Too true :-)
      
      I've met a lot of travellers like that in Tokyo. Some now take holidays to restock their businesses / obsession back home. One was a JPop promoter in the USA. Fascinating sub-cultures.
      
      But you're less likely to meet them when staying in hotels.
      
      I've learnt a lot from them, not being as fascinated by the field. So many interests in the 1 country. I spend my time in rural, mountain & ocean areas, Onsen, and archeology sites - far from the crowds & most Foreigners.
chengjianer on 19/09/2015 - 00:10

Just booked a return to Tokyo from Sydney for $421.73. But why in the Jetstar's ad the price is from $442 and some people found some flight for $396 same route??
- Paul Atreides on 19/09/2015 - 12:11
  
  +1
  
  yeah, found mine at $390.xx
  - chengjianer on 19/09/2015 - 12:57
    
    Damn! What date? Mine is 31 May to 8 Jun.
    
    Did you book once this deal came out? I checked and booked last night, probably all the lowest fare are sold by that time..
    - Paul Atreides on 19/09/2015 - 13:44
      
      yeah booked once the deal came out BUT i booked mine first at $420 to be paid by direct deposit. went away for about 30mins to think about then and when i checked the fare again before transferring, it was $390, so made a new booking and paid for it.
      
      8-18jun
- nubzy on 19/09/2015 - 12:34
  
  Didn't see any as low as $396. ~$420 was about the lowest. But really these fares are much more because you need to add 20kg luggage (unless your only going for a few days) and for tallpeople, extra leg room, and then the credit card fee if you want to take advantage of travel insurance. Still very good value compared to previous return sale for ~$700 with no extras.
nubzy on 19/09/2015 - 11:31

Adds up after adding 20kg baggage ($52-$56 each flight) and extra leg room, about 1350 from Sydney return, still a great deal.
- Yanoflies on 19/09/2015 - 14:23
  
  Should I add meals?
  
  And is the extra leg room worth it if I'm not too tall? Row 13 is already gone.
  
  EDIT:
  
  Whoops, wasn't meant to be a reply.
  - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 14:59
    
    Depends what you value & what your priorities are. If better seating will help you arrive in a better state & enjoy your holiday more - it's a cheap investment.
    
    I'm more a budget conscious sole traveller.
    - Yanoflies on 19/09/2015 - 15:36
      
      I upgraded myself to the 23J seats (extra legroom rightmost window) for both flights.
      
      Should be enough space to leave for the bathroom without having to disturb the people next to me.
      
      Don't think I'll take the comfort pack or the meals.
      
      $581.73 for a solo return trip, cheap enough.
    - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 16:19
      
      @Yanoflies:
      No use going if it's not going to be enjoyable :-)
      
      Yes, escaping from the window seat is difficult, especially when others are asleep.
      
      Wow. That's $343 more than my flight (only for the super-frugal).
    - Yanoflies on 19/09/2015 - 21:48
      
      @Infidel:
      
      Is it difficult even if it's the extra legroom one?
    - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 21:58
      
      @Yanoflies:
      Not sure. I fly too much to remember those details. Try www.seatguru.com
      
      Should be better & depends if it's in front of a wall or not - those are usually easy access.
      
      I've never had any problem moving out of the window seat. That's especially so when Japanese people are in my row. They are so polite, it can be embarrassing. But maybe they just want to clear the the way for a big Foreigner?
      
      I don't usually have anyone beside me. A Japanese man ventured into my row of 3 seats in the exit row, then made out he didn't understand that wasn't his seat. That was his undoing. Flight staff moved him as only English speakers could sit in exit rows on that Jetstar flight.
      
      Hope you enjoy your journey.
  - nubzy on 19/09/2015 - 17:31
    
    It's worth it for me as I'm over 6ft. Don't get the meals or overpriced package, eat beforehand and take snacks or subway on the plane. Extra leg room, entertainment ($9 might as well) and luggage is what I went for.
    - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 17:34
      
      +1
      
      Sounds like extra leg room is a necessity for you, rather than an option.
      
      I bring a tablet & phone, charged by USB port in front of you, for entertainment. Handy as I use it for internet access in accommodation to watch internet TV (eg NHK has interesting Japanese docos & information in English).
      
      Enjoy Japan :-)
    - nubzy on 19/09/2015 - 17:37
      
      @Infidel: thanks, looking forward to it. Have no idea where to begin with booking hotels or airbnb and how to plan my time, lots of research ahead lol.
    - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 17:52
      
      @nubzy:
      Plenty of time. I have flown out at 2 weeks notice on a Jetstar Japan deal.
      
      One of the best things about Japan is it is so different to Australia, but safe & generally friendly. And I can only speak a few words of Japanese.
      
      Research on travel & local culture is a lot of fun, or am I the only one who thinks that?
      
      Older Japanese are surprised when Foreigners know something about their culture. If you are inquisitive, it can be the best adventure.
      
      In rural Japan, I was shown around by tour guides being trained. They considered it an honour to explain the local history & culture, get drunk & eat together, that they paid for everything & gave me $200! Just one of so many memorable random adventures every trip.
      
      Lots of good sites - you won't miss them by Googling a few words.
      
      Of course guidebooks are a good resource & a great place to start - try your local library. Handy for narrowing down where you want to travel. Good to know what you are interested in & zoom in on areas that are known for that.
      
      Eyewitness Guides are the simplest to read - lots of photos, plans of major attractions, cultural tips. Not worth buying, usually out of date, read in a day, then never need again. (I met the photographer for them in South Korea. He was updating some photos they were using from the 70s. A few of my suggestions may be in the latest edition.)
      
      But lugging a LP Japan around is a pain. I rarely look at digital copies I take on my travels.
      
      SBS2 shows NHK WORLD NEWS in English around 3-5am Fridays. Includes news & documentary covering Japanese culture & ways. (I always learn something I never knew I was interested in.)
      
      AirBnB has some good places, but a bit more expensive than I spend. I've visited one in Osaka.
      
      "Business Hotels" in major cities provide basic facilities, certainly not luxurious. They cater for Japanese business people & provide a clean room, close to train stations, but usually no toilet in room. Starting around $20/n what would you expect. Often in central but poor neighbours. But the locals are great.
      
      Cheap accommodation like that can be found on backpacker sites like hostelworld.com.
      
      I usually contact the place directly - some have weekly rates or have rooms in apartments which are much nicer. (Contacted a manager I knew of a Japanese Inn & booked a week in an apartment room for $150/wk in Tokyo last December, with basic breakfast. Was close to interesting tourist areas & 3 train lines. WiFi & aircon were great in room.)
      
      As long as reception staff speak English, they can advise you on where to go.
      
      Note on internet access… some places only provide Ethernet cable, not WiFi, or only WiFi in areas like reception.
    - fatming on 19/09/2015 - 18:49
      
      whereabouts was the apartment for $150 pw ….do you have any details I can find? Thanks
    - INFIDEL on 19/09/2015 - 19:42
      
      +1
      
      @fatming:
      North Asuksa, to the Noth East of central Tokyo. 3 stations east (outside) of the Yamanote train line at Ueno.
      
      You can contact the Aizuya Inn, which provides basic backpacker rooms in a quiet but down market neighbourhood.
      
      http://www.aizuya-inn.com
      
      Ask about the apartment (close by) rooms & availability. It's meant for long term stays, but is rented if there is availability.
      
      The top floor of the 3 story building is not recommended, as it's long term tenants.
      
      Middle floor (2nd floor) was basic but usually large (for Tokyo) bedrooms range from traditional tatami mat & futon, to double bed Western (my old room overlooking pedestrian shopping street). Comfortable enough 80s building that families have moved out of last year. All rooms had Windows, aircon, no TV but good WiFi. Common areas are cleaned, but bedrooms are only cleaned after leaving.
      
      Breakfast (cereal with milk, juice, coffee or tea) is included at the Inn. PCs, tv & local papers in English, travel advice, maps… all available free.
      
      Supermarkets around corner, a few friendly drunks who wanted to sing to me…
      it's the old shoe workshop area, traditionally day labourers were found for menial jobs in this area & criminals executed where the train stations now are. It's got history, so may not be to everyone's tastes. But it's cheap & safe. I like it.
      
      The famous tourist area around the Sensoji temple & market (Asuksa) is 20 minutes walk south or via bus, & 3 train stations (Minami-senju) are 10 minutes north (a few stations to Uneo, then Tokyo, etc & direct line to famous Akihabara), Sumida river 10 minutes east. Sky Tree is visible from outside - I've walked there, or short train ride from Asuksa.
      
      Yen has got more expensive & rates may have changed. Weekly or monthly rates available.