Planning a trip to Ishigaki Island in Okinawa brings up one major factor: the budget. For our recent vacation, we decided to fly directly from Narita Airport using the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC),
Peach Aviation. Many travelers wonder, “Is the LCC experience too uncomfortable?” or “Can I survive 3.5 hours in those seats?” To help you decide, I’m sharing a detailed review based on my actual flight experience, covering seat comfort, in-flight service, and the convenience of Narita Terminal 1.
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Pros and Cons of Flying Peach
For those in a hurry, here is a quick summary of what was great and what you need to watch out for.
The Pros:
- Terminal 1 Convenience: Departing from Narita Terminal 1 means easy train access and less walking compared to the dedicated LCC Terminal 3.
- Service: The flight attendants were incredibly kind and helpful.
- Family Friendly: Kids receive original toy kits on both flights (a nice touch if you are traveling with family).
- Dessert: The in-flight Matcha Montblanc was surprisingly authentic and delicious.
- Cost: Significant savings compared to major carriers, freeing up budget for hotels and food.
The Cons:
- Seat Pitch: Legroom is definitely on the tighter side.
- Paid Extras: All drinks and food are sold separately.
- Delays: Potential for operational waits (we waited 15 minutes on the plane after landing).
- Payment Issues: Machine faults may require you to carry cash.
- Limited Gate Options: Shops near the boarding gate are scarce.
Location: The Comfort of Narita Terminal 1
When people hear “LCC” at Narita, they usually imagine the long walk and crowded warehouse-like atmosphere of Terminal 3. However, Peach (for domestic flights) uses Terminal 1. This is a huge advantage for all travelers.
Access from the train station is smooth, and because it shares the terminal with major international airlines, it doesn’t feel as chaotic. The check-in counters were easy to find, and the whole process was stress-free.
Gate Area and Food Options
After passing through security, there were two shops near our boarding gate. However, the selection of bento boxes and rice balls was quite limited. If you want to ensure you have enough snacks or a proper meal, I highly recommend buying them at the MiniStop convenience store near the Peach check-in counter before going through security.
Near the gate, there is a standing eating area where you can buy hot dishes like Udon noodles and curry. It’s convenient for a quick bite before boarding. There is also a small play area in the back—good to know if you happen to be traveling with little ones.
Seat Comfort and Cabin Experience
We flew on an A320neo aircraft. Stepping inside, you can feel the compact nature typical of LCCs. The legroom is narrow; when an adult sits down, there isn’t much space between your knees and the seat in front.
The flight to Ishigaki took about 3.5 hours, while the return trip was shorter at about 2.5 hours due to tailwinds. 3.5 hours can feel long without entertainment. Since there are no seatback monitors, bringing a tablet with downloaded movies or a good book is essential.
Despite the rainy weather during our trip, the flight itself was remarkably smooth with almost no turbulence. Since the A320neo is a relatively new aircraft, the engine noise felt quieter than older planes, which was a nice surprise.
In-Flight Service and Atmosphere
I assumed service would be minimal since it’s a budget airline, but the staff exceeded my expectations with their warmth.
Hospitality The flight attendants were polite and attentive to all passengers, not just families. For those traveling with children, they provided paper craft kits, which was a thoughtful gesture. The atmosphere was welcoming, avoiding the overly “dry” service sometimes associated with budget carriers.
In-Flight Meals: The Must-Try Matcha Montblanc
On Peach flights, all food and drinks are sold separately. Since it is a domestic flight, there aren’t full meal services—mostly instant options like Cup Noodles or Soba.
However, one item on the menu caught my eye: the Matcha Montblanc. I decided to order it, and it was delicious! The rich matcha flavor and the sweetness of the cream were perfect for a mid-flight treat. You can also order coffee, tea, and green tea.
Important Note: Bring Cash! Usually, you can pay by credit card, but on this flight, we were told the payment machine was broken, so it was cash only. Even if you are 100% cashless in your daily life, I recommend keeping a few thousand yen in bills handy just in case you want to buy something on board.
Arrival Tips and Seat Selection Advice
After landing at Ishigaki Airport, I expected to deplane immediately. However, due to an issue with setting up the boarding bridge, we had to wait inside the plane for about 15 minutes. When flying LCC, it’s good to be mentally prepared for these kinds of minor operational delays.
If your budget allows, I strongly recommend booking the front row seats (Fast Seats or Smart Seats) for an extra fee. Being able to grab your bags and get off the plane first makes a huge difference in reducing stress and starting your vacation smoothly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flying Peach to Ishigaki is a fantastic option. While the seats are snug and services are paid, the convenience of Narita Terminal 1, the kindness of the staff, and—most importantly—the cost performance are unbeatable.
By saving money on airfare, you can splurge on a nicer resort hotel or enjoy a premium Ishigaki beef dinner. As long as you prepare in advance (buy snacks at the convenience store and bring entertainment), you can have a comfortable journey. I hope this review helps you plan your next trip!
