Karmactive Staff
Sonali Tiwary
In a move set to boost connectivity between Australia and Asia’s most vibrant destinations, Jetstar has unveiled a major fare sale offering one-way tickets to Japan and South Korea starting from just $130 (Jetstar sale page). The promotion, featuring established routes to Tokyo, Osaka, and Seoul, offers discounted access for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore these booming tourism markets during the travel window spanning October 2025 through May 2026.
Sale Details: Ready for Boarding
The sale offers a tiered pricing structure with impressive entry points across multiple departure cities. Cairns-based travelers can secure seats to Osaka (Kansai) or Tokyo (Narita) from $130 one-way, while Brisbane passengers can reach Osaka, Tokyo, or Seoul (Incheon) from $155. Sydney departures to Osaka are available from $165, and Sydney–Seoul routes start at $170.
Club Jetstar members received priority boarding with exclusive early access beginning at midday on July 21, 2025, while general public boarding commences at midnight. The sale taxies to a halt at 11:59 PM AEST on Thursday, July 24, 2025, unless seats sell out prior – a distinct possibility given the high-traffic destinations involved.
Jetstar has expanded capacity on its Asia–Pacific network following the planned closure of its Jetstar Asia affiliate, redistributing 13 Airbus A320 aircraft back into its domestic and international operations to support fleet renewal and growth.
Beyond the Base Fare: The Full Flight Plan
Budget-savvy travelers should note these fares represent base pricing only. Like most low-cost carrier operations, the advertised figures cover seat-only transport with strictly enforced 7 kg carry-on baggage limits. Checked luggage incurs additional fees starting from approximately $40 when added during booking.
For those requiring more comfort and flexibility, Jetstar’s Plus bundle includes 20 kg checked baggage, seat selection, and meal vouchers for around $40 extra per flight. Passengers can maximize their allowance by joining Club Jetstar ($65 annual fee), which provides members with 20 % discounts on baggage and seat selection fees.
Payment method impacts final pricing too – fares are lowest when paid via PayID, Jetstar voucher, or Jetstar Gift Card. Credit card bookings incur payment surcharges between $40–50 per flight, while telephone bookings add $40–50 per passenger.
Market Tailwinds: Tourism Taking Off
The timing of Jetstar’s sale aligns perfectly with explosive growth in Asian tourism markets. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan recorded 10.54 million international arrivals in Q1 2025, a 28.4 % increase year-on-year.
South Korea’s own tourism industry is experiencing similar upward trajectory, welcoming 16.36 million foreign visitors in 2024, representing 94 % of pre-pandemic levels and a 48.4 % increase from 2023. First quarter 2025 data shows a steady recovery with 3.42 million visitors between January and March, with a 0.6 % year-over-year growth rate (KTO arrivals).
Currency factors have created favorable conditions for Australian travelers. The Japanese yen has maintained its position as a value currency for international visitors, while South Korea’s tourism infrastructure continues to expand as the nation bounces back from pandemic travel restrictions.
Strategic Flight Path
This sale represents more than just discounted fares – it’s part of Jetstar’s broader network realignment across the Asia‑Pacific region. Jetstar Airways services into Asia—including to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan and South Korea—continue unaffected by its affiliate’s restructuring.
Industry analysts note Jetstar’s international market share has climbed from 9 % to approximately 13 % post‑COVID, with available seats increasing 34 % and another 24 % growth expected throughout 2025. This expansion positions the carrier to capitalize on Australia’s growing appetite for Asian travel experiences (Open‑Jaw Flights).
Passenger Advisory
Travel specialists from organizations like the Japan National Tourism Organization recommend booking early for cherry blossom season (March–April) or autumn foliage (October–November), as these popular travel periods can sell out quickly. Flexible travelers may find optimal value in shoulder seasons when tourism pressures ease but experiences remain authentic (Tourism Archives).
Travelers should also factor in additional costs when budgeting – particularly baggage fees, which can significantly impact the total journey cost. For international flights to Japan and South Korea, excess baggage fees at the airport can reach $80 AUD per piece, making advance planning essential.
For full details and bookings, passengers can visit Jetstar.com before the sale concludes on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
