Kansai International Airport unveils major Terminal 1 renovation ahead of the Osaka-Kansai 2025 Expo
VINCI Airports joined KIX in celebrating its grand opening and 30th anniversary, with notable figures including government dignitaries, airline executives and industry stakeholders in attendance
Kansai International Airport (KIX), the gateway to western Japan, marks a major milestone with the unveiling of its most significant renovation since 1994, in time for the Osaka-Kansai 2025 Expo. This upgrade enhances passenger flow, modernizes retail offerings and delivers an elevated travel experience that combines advanced technology with refined Japanese aesthetics.
The newly expanded airline common lounge accommodates over 1,000 passengers, offering a more comfortable and spacious experience
Landmark renovation
On March 27, 2025, KIX reached a historic juncture in its multi-phase renovation that began in 2022. Terminal 1 reimagines the space to support a growing international traveler base, featuring innovations such as a consolidated international security checkpoint, eGate immigration control, expanded duty free zones and a spacious airline common lounge.
The reception on March 15, 2025, celebrated both the revamped Terminal 1 and the airport’s 30th anniversary. Attended by 450 guests, including government dignitaries, airline executives and industry stakeholders, the event highlighted the support from Kansai Airports’ shareholders, VINCI Airports and ORIX, which together are driving initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote sustainable growth and boost the Kansai region’s appeal.
Fumio Owada, Chief Commercial Officer of Non-Aero at Kansai Airports
Surge in international travelers
KIX serves a diverse mix of passengers, with major nationalities including Japanese (21%), Chinese (20%), Korean (19%) and Taiwanese (11%) in 2024. Since 2015, the airport has seen a significant shift in passenger demographics. Originally designed for a 50/50 split between domestic and international travelers, the terminal saw international traffic share surge to 78% by 2018.
Fumio Owada, Chief Commercial Officer of Non-Aero at Kansai Airports, explains the need for Terminal 1’s renovation, “In 2018, international passengers reached 21 million, far exceeding the 12 million originally planned and leading to severe congestion.”
The new terminal incorporates technological upgrades to streamline passenger flow. Features like smart security lanes, self-check-in kiosks and automated bag drop stations make travelers' journeys smoother. Expanded security checkpoints ensure 90% of travelers pass through security in under ten minutes. Additionally, Japan’s largest walkthrough duty free store and expanded dining options offer a shopping and culinary experience that blends local and global influences.
In 2024, KIX served over 30.6 million passengers. With expanded capacity to handle 40 million international passengers annually, the airport is poised to welcome more visitors during the Osaka-Kansai 2025 Expo.
KIX is home to Japan’s largest walkthrough duty free stores, providing an immersive shopping experience for travelers
This large seating area features a distinctly Japanese feel. The seating space is surrounded by top brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès
Phased transformation
The renovation of Terminal 1 has been carried out in four stages. The first, completed in 2022, expanded and updated the domestic terminal. In 2023, the second stage moved the international area and redesigned shopping and dining on the second floor. The third stage, recently completed, created a larger security area, improved lounges and refreshed shopping on the fourth floor. The final phase, due by summer 2026, will add 20 new stores, including luxury boutiques and a larger food offering.
Experiences for every mood
KIX has transformed transit time into a memorable journey with its innovative “Mood Areas.” Reflecting on the transformation so far, Owada’s greatest pride revolves around this innovative space as he shares that “passengers are invited to spend time in the new area according to their mood.” These themed zones offer personalized experiences for travelers seeking vibrant energy, cultural discovery, functional ease or tranquil relaxation.
The retail redesign blends commerce with culture and leisure, integrating traditional Japanese aesthetics through natural wood finishes and signature colors. Recent retail additions include Gacha Matsuri, a capsule toy shop featuring Japan’s beloved gachapon collectibles. New duty free arrival shops offer a wide variety of tobacco, liquor and confectionery, attracting mainly Chinese and Japanese travelers.
Innovation and sustainability
Sustainability drives KIX’s transformation. The renovation incorporates numerous green initiatives designed to drive the airport toward net-zero emissions by 2050. By optimizing energy efficiency, deploying electric and fuel-cell vehicles and utilizing seaweed beds as CO₂ absorbers, KIX has attained Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation. It also boasts the largest solar power generation capacity among Japanese airports.
The transformation at KIX remains far from over. While the Terminal 1 renovation marks the airport’s most significant upgrade to date, discussions are currently underway regarding the reorganization of Terminal 2, the airport’s low-cost carrier terminal.
