Chubu Centrair International Airport
Chubu Centrair International Airport is located on an artificial island in Ise Bay off the coast of Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture. It serves as the primary international gateway to Nagoya and the Chubu region of Japan. Officially opened on February 17, 2005, the airport replaced most commercial operations of the former Nagoya Airport and has since become one of Japan’s major hub airports designated by the national government. It is operated by Central Japan International Airport Company.
Built entirely on reclaimed land in Ise Bay, Chubu Centrair International Airport is Japan’s second large-scale offshore international airport constructed on an artificial island, following Kansai International Airport. Operating 24 hours a day, the airport combines modern facilities with convenient transportation links, making it the principal gateway to Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, and the wider Chubu region. For many international visitors, it serves as the first stop when exploring central Japan.
Environmental conservation and sustainability were key considerations throughout the airport’s construction. The artificial island was designed in a shape resembling the letter “P” to help maintain the natural flow of currents in Ise Bay and minimize impacts on the marine ecosystem. Natural stone revetments were also used around the island’s shoreline, creating habitats suitable for marine life while balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation.
Aichi Prefecture is one of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturing centers and produces major fuselage components for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. As a result, it is common to see large Boeing 747 freighters transporting oversized aircraft components to and from the airport. Aviation enthusiasts should also visit the Flight of Dreams exhibition facility, which houses the world's first Boeing 787 prototype alongside aviation exhibits, interactive experiences, restaurants, and shopping areas.
The airport’s English nickname, “Centrair,” is a combination of the words “Central” and “Airport.” The name has become the airport’s distinctive brand identity and is widely used throughout its facilities, transportation services, and air traffic operations.
To accommodate the rapid growth of low-cost carriers, Chubu Centrair International Airport opened its second passenger terminal in 2019, dedicated primarily to budget airlines. Today, in addition to its domestic and international flight services, the airport offers a wide range of shopping, dining, relaxation facilities, and observation areas. Among its most popular attractions is the Sky Deck, one of Japan’s best-known aircraft viewing spots, where visitors can watch planes take off and land while enjoying panoramic views across Ise Bay.
