Microsoft has released World Update 20, turning their attention to Japan in one of the simulator’s most expansive updates to date. This free package adds new photogrammetry cities, dozens of points of interest, handcrafted airports, and a range of discovery activities for both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024.
Japan has been recreated in striking detail with 23 new photogrammetry areas, including Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka, Sapporo, and a significant number across Tokyo. To complement these, the update introduces 67 points of interest, such as Osaka Castle, Akinada Bridge, Shosanbetsu Observatory, Enoshima Sea Candle, and Fukuoka Tower.
A highlight of the update is the inclusion of five handcrafted airports, developed by Gaya Simulations:
- Hokkaido Spaceport (JP-0052)
- Kitakyushu Airport (RJFR)
- Rishiri Airport (RJER)
- Sado Airport (RJSD)
- Satsuma Iōjima Airport (RJX7)
Beyond visuals, World Update 20 introduces a strong set of missions and activities. Across both MSFS 2020 and 2024, there are:
- Three discovery flights: Chubu-Sangaku National Park, Kyoto, and Sapporo.
- Three landing challenges: including tough conditions at Ōmura, Rishiri, and Sado airports.
- One bush trip: a journey from Mount Fuji to Mount Yōtei.
- One spotlight event: a scenic discovery flight over Tokyo Bay’s Makuhari Messe complex.
In Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, this update adds exclusive challenges: a low-altitude flight over Tsushima Island and a rally race challenge at Setonaikai National Park, designed to showcase some of the new gameplay possibilities.
As always, the update is free for all simmers through the in-sim marketplace
