Philippine Airlines Opens A Direct Air Bridge From Manila To Japan’s Snowy Paradise Sapporo, Offering Seasonal Access To Ski Resorts And The Sapporo Snow Festival

Philippine Airlines is set to resume its nonstop seasonal flights between Manila and Sapporo starting November 24, 2025, through March 27, 2026, reconnecting Filipino travelers with Japan’s snowy northern island of Hokkaido just in time for the winter travel season. The three-times-weekly service, operated by the modern Airbus A321neo, offers passengers direct access to Sapporo’s iconic ski resorts and the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival. With 168 seats across business and economy class, inflight Wi-Fi, and entertainment options, the airline aims to provide a seamless and comfortable journey. The route marks a strategic expansion of PAL’s Japan network and underscores its commitment to offering high-demand seasonal routes that cater to both leisure and cultural tourism. This relaunch not only revives a key connection suspended since 2020 but also positions Philippine Airlines as the leading carrier linking the Philippines to Japan’s most sought-after winter destinations.

Philippines Reconnects with Japan’s Winter Wonderland as PAL Resumes Nonstop Flights to Sapporo

Philippine Airlines Revives Seasonal Manila–Sapporo Route with Airbus A321neo for Winter 2025–2026

Manila, Philippines — Philippine Airlines (PAL), the country’s flag carrier, is reintroducing its highly anticipated nonstop route between Manila and Sapporo as part of its expanded winter service offerings. Beginning November 24, 2025, and running through March 27, 2026, travelers from the Philippines will once again have direct access to the enchanting winter city of Sapporo in Hokkaido, Japan — a favorite among skiers, snow enthusiasts, and cultural adventurers alike.

The seasonal flights will operate three times weekly, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, utilizing the modern and fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo. This move signals PAL’s strategic return to one of its most scenic and high-demand seasonal routes, aligning with the booming interest in winter tourism across East Asia.

The Airbus A321neo assigned to the route boasts 168 total seats, divided into 12 Business Class seats offering enhanced comfort and amenities, and 156 Economy Class seats designed for space efficiency and traveler satisfaction. All passengers will have access to onboard Wi-Fi, personal inflight entertainment systems, and a range of digital services tailored to long-haul comfort.

According to the airline, this route will become a recurring feature every winter season, reconnecting Filipino tourists, overseas workers, and Japanese residents with one of Japan’s most celebrated winter destinations. The resumption also demonstrates PAL’s growing confidence in the travel rebound and its continued focus on Japan as a high-value international market.

A Gateway to Hokkaido’s Winter Magic

Located in Japan’s northernmost island, Sapporo is best known for its powdery snow, world-class ski resorts, and the iconic Sapporo Snow Festival, an event that draws millions of visitors annually to marvel at the intricate ice and snow sculptures lining the city streets. Beyond the snow, Sapporo offers rich experiences in traditional Japanese culture, historical architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene featuring regional specialties like miso ramen, fresh seafood, and more.

By restoring this direct air link, PAL makes it easier than ever for Filipino travelers to experience the serene beauty of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes, whether it’s skiing down slopes in Niseko, strolling through snow-covered parks, or soaking in natural hot springs.

Wider Connectivity Between the Philippines and Japan

The reinstatement of the Manila–Sapporo service further strengthens PAL’s already robust Japan network. Currently, PAL operates direct nonstop flights from Manila to Tokyo (both Narita and Haneda), Osaka Kansai, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. In addition, the carrier provides direct services from Cebu to both Tokyo Narita and Osaka Kansai, enabling passengers in the Visayas and Mindanao regions easier access to Japan.

With this comprehensive route map, PAL remains the airline with the largest network of Japan-bound services from the Philippines. This positions the flag carrier as a central player in regional air connectivity, serving both leisure and business travelers, as well as Japan’s sizable Filipino expatriate population.

A Strategic Relaunch Aligned with Demand and Travel Recovery

The Manila–Sapporo route had previously been launched by PAL in December 2018, operating until March 2020, when it was suspended due to the onset of the global pandemic. Its return in 2025 signifies not only the recovery of international travel but also the growing appetite among Filipinos for experiential winter tourism, a trend that continues to gain momentum post-COVID.

This relaunch is part of PAL’s broader strategy to adapt its offerings to match seasonal demand while ensuring high levels of convenience and passenger satisfaction. Sapporo’s popularity as a destination — combined with PAL’s direct flights, modern aircraft, and exceptional onboard services — is expected to generate strong interest across multiple traveler segments.

Comfort and Convenience on Every Flight

By deploying the Airbus A321neo for this route, PAL ensures that passengers enjoy the latest in aviation technology and comfort. The aircraft is equipped with new-generation engines, improved cabin noise reduction, and lower emissions, reflecting the airline’s ongoing efforts toward more sustainable and eco-conscious air travel.

Travelers can look forward to a seamless onboard experience, whether seated in Business Class with lie-flat seating and premium dining or in Economy Class with generous legroom, USB charging ports, and an engaging inflight entertainment catalog featuring movies, music, and games.

Conclusion: A Welcome Return for Snow Seekers and Travelers Alike

The return of nonstop PAL flights between Manila and Sapporo opens new travel possibilities for Filipinos eager to experience Japan’s captivating winter charm without the need for multiple connections. With easy access to snow adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet discoveries, this seasonal route is set to become a winter favorite once again.

Philippine Airlines is bringing back its nonstop Manila–Sapporo flights starting November 24, 2025, reconnecting the Philippines with Japan’s premier winter destination just in time for ski season and the iconic Sapporo Snow Festival. The seasonal service will operate three times a week using the advanced Airbus A321neo, enhancing PAL’s Japan network and winter tourism offerings.

As Philippine Airlines continues to strengthen its international reach and restore popular routes, the Manila–Sapporo connection stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to serve passengers with world-class service, reliable sched