JAL SKY MUSEUM & Factory Tour: A Must-Visit for Aviation Lovers (Introduce how to get competitive reservation) 2025

Hi!! I’m OKAERI that is traveler all over the world :))

「OKAERI TRAVEL」 concept is to go on a highly satisfying trip tomorrow! I’d love to introduce fun places by local voice!

The experience of boarding an airplane is always exciting. I recently had the opportunity to visit the JAL Maintenance Facility, one of Japan’s top two major airlines, and I am excited to share my experience.

I have kept spoilers to a minimum and highlighted key points and tips to ensure you can fully enjoy your visit:))

JAL(Japan Air Line) is the one of biggest air line company in JAPAN.
Their corporate color and logo is red crane.

They has a top hospitality(OMOTENASHI). Even the flight ticket is quite expensive, but VIP and millionaire are would like to use it.

JAL has own museum that is JAL SKY MUSEUM near Haneda international airport.
It can share information about the history and challenging flight simulator , wearing uniform etc.

Official page is HERE

Reservations can be made through the official website. However, competition is extremely high, and securing a spot the moment reservations open is very difficult.

When Do Reservations Open?

Reservations become available at 9:30 AM, exactly one month before the tour date. Even if you are ready at that time, securing a spot can be a challenge.

Is There a Waiting List? Try Even at the Last Minute

JAL offers a waiting list for cancellations. I was able to join the tour via the waiting list, though even that was highly competitive. There is also a limit to how many people can join the waiting list, and I have seen it fill up right in front of me.

For better chances, have your address and contact details ready to enter quickly. Interestingly, I noticed that checking early in the morning, around 6 or 7 AM, sometimes revealed available slots. If you are determined to go, try checking first thing in the morning.

When Will You Receive Confirmation for a Waiting List Spot?

According to official information, confirmation will come no later than three days before the tour. However, since confirmations are sent as soon as a spot becomes available, there is no set timeline. In my case, I received confirmation five days before the tour.

A Guaranteed Way to Secure a Spot: Paid Options

JAL offers an additional paid experience, the Life Vest Experience Course, for 1,500 yen, in addition to the SKY MUSEUM tour. Even with this option, availability is limited.

For those who are willing to pay more, there are also domestic travel packages like JAL PACK and mileage-based exclusive tours for JMB members. These tours start at 2,000 miles and sometimes include onboard meal experiences.

I attended on a weekday before summer vacation, and while there were a few children, most participants were adults. I went alone and still had a great time.

Guidance Session: Learning About Haneda Airport and Aircraft Types

The tour begins with a 30-minute guidance session covering important safety instructions and an introduction to aircraft. If you have attended before, you can skip this session and explore the museum instead.

I had a general understanding of different aircraft types, but I was surprised at how distinct they are. I now feel confident in identifying a Boeing 787.
So, If you are an aircraft fan, you will get be interesting lecture!

This session was incredibly useful for understanding the maintenance hangar tour later, so I recommend attending if it is your first visit.

Exploring the Museum: One Hour , but is Not Enough X)

After the lecture, participants have one hour to explore the JAL SKY MUSEUM. The museum showcases historical flight attendant uniforms, aircraft models, and insights into the roles of pilots, cabin crew, and mechanics.

One of the highlights is trying on JAL uniforms for a commemorative photo. Adult sizes are available, making it a fun experience.

There is also a QR code stamp rally, so be sure to participate.

The Maintenance Hangar: A Stunning Close-Up View of Aircraft

Finally, the highly anticipated maintenance hangar tour begins. The number of aircraft in the hangar varies, but I was lucky to see several planes during my visit.

Seeing an aircraft up close, outside of a flight, was awe-inspiring. The sheer scale is overwhelming, and it is difficult to capture everything in a single photo.

The staff were very hospitable and even informed us when JAL aircraft were departing from Haneda.

Attire, Accessories, and Hairstyle

According to official guidelines, sandals and high heels are not allowed. The tour involves stairs and walking through areas with gaps, so sneakers or other secure footwear are recommended.

Small items can be difficult to retrieve if dropped, so avoid wearing earrings or other accessories.

Since helmets are required, choose a hairstyle that will not be ruined easily.

Best Outfits for the Uniform Experience

The museum offers a JAL uniform try-on experience, and many adults participate. If you plan to take part, consider wearing a light top and dark-colored bottoms. The uniform includes a thick top layer, so a thin, light inner layer is best. Dark-colored bottoms blend well with the uniform for photos.

QR Code Stamp Rally

The SKY MUSEUM includes a QR code stamp rally, but it is not widely advertised. During my visit, only a few people participated.

By completing the rally, you can receive an original sticker designed by a pilot. Be sure to inform the staff once you have collected all the stamps.

Hidden Navigation Feature

As of July 2024, JAL has been promoting its Hidden Navigation feature. Aircraft face various environmental challenges, but we can reduce the impact through our travel choices.

The website is designed with a playful, engaging approach, so it is worth checking out.

The JAL SKY MUSEUM does not have cafes or restaurants.

Across the street, Blue Corner is a nostalgic-style restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while watching airplanes up close. It is only open on weekdays but is accessible to the public.

I was unable to get in due to limited time, so I recommend planning ahead.

Google Maps does not show a walking route, but it is possible to walk from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 to the SKY MUSEUM in about 15 minutes. Half of the walk is through a tunnel, but some visitors choose this route. There is also a point along the way where you can see airplanes up close.

To find the path, walk in the direction of SKY MUSEUM and Shin-Seibi-Jo Station. Some aviation enthusiasts have also shared walking directions on YouTube.

JAL factory tours are highly competitive, and after months of checking the website, I finally secured a spot through the waiting list.

This tour provides a comprehensive look into aviation history, aircraft, and JAL’s operations, making future flights even more enjoyable.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit. Enjoy your journey!

*Information is accurate as of the time of writing. Please check the official website for details.