Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Memanbetsu. Memanbetsu Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 80 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Memanbetsu, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Japan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Memanbetsu is roughly 80 minutes from MMB via Airport Limousine Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in JPY. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some JPY in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Memanbetsu
Two recommendations for your time in Memanbetsu:
Start with Abashiri Prison Museum (åç©é¤¨ç¶²èµ°ç£ç). Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum (ãªãã¼ãã¯æµæ°·é¤¨). You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MMB, check out Memanbetsu Airport Observation Deck or Airport Souvenir Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Memanbetsu, local travelers recommend Abashiri Beer Kan (網走ãã¼ã«é¤¨). If you have time for a second stop, Kaniya Abashiri Honten (ãã«ã網走æ¬åº) is another popular pick.
Back at MMB, Sky Restaurant Pier (ã¹ã«ã¤ã¬ã¹ãã©ã³ ãã¢) is the go-to. Air Plaza Memanbetsu (Aeroplaza Memanbetsu) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from MMB to Memanbetsu
You have two main options for getting from Memanbetsu Airport into town:
- Airport Limousine Bus: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Memanbetsu might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$7 USD
- A meal: ~$13 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$30 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Located on both 1F (arrivals) and 2F (departures) lobbies.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Memanbetsu.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MMB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Japan and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MMB
Long overnight layover? Your options at MMB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Japan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Memanbetsu genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.