Traveling to Japan is an exciting adventure, and choosing the right airline can significantly enhance your journey. With numerous airlines offering flights to Japan, it’s essential to know which ones provide the best combination of comfort, service, and value. Here, we explore what other airlines go to Japan that are good, focusing on their unique offerings, pricing, and customer experience.
6 Airlines Offering the Best Flights to Japan
1. Japan Airlines (JAL)
Japan Airlines, the nation’s flag carrier, is renowned for its exceptional service and Japanese hospitality. JAL offers direct flights to major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo, from several U.S. cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Honolulu.
- Pricing: Round-trip fares typically start at $800 for economy class, with business class tickets averaging around $3,500.
- Features: JAL provides spacious seating, award-winning inflight meals, and a wide selection of entertainment options. Their Sky Suite Business Class features lie-flat seats and direct aisle access.
- Frequent Flyer Program: JAL Mileage Bank allows travelers to earn miles that can be redeemed for flights and upgrades.
JAL’s commitment to safety and service excellence makes it a top choice for travelers seeking a seamless flying experience to Japan.
2. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
All Nippon Airways is another top-rated Japanese airline, known for its world-class service and comfort. ANA offers flights from various U.S. cities, including San Francisco, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., to Tokyo and other destinations in Japan.
- Pricing: Economy class fares start at around $900, with business class tickets ranging from $3,000 to $4,000.
- Features: ANA provides comfortable seating, excellent inflight dining options, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Their “The Room” Business Class offers one of the largest seating areas available in business class.
- Frequent Flyer Program: ANA Mileage Club allows passengers to accumulate miles for flight rewards and other benefits.
ANA’s reputation for punctuality and high-quality service makes it a preferred choice for both leisure and business travelers.
3. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines, a major U.S. carrier, offers numerous direct flights to Japan from cities like Atlanta, Detroit, and Seattle. Delta is known for its reliability and customer service.
- Pricing: Economy class tickets typically cost around $700, with Delta One (business class) fares starting at approximately $2,800.
- Features: Delta offers comfortable seating, complimentary meals and beverages, and a variety of entertainment options. Delta One provides lie-flat seats and premium amenities.
- Frequent Flyer Program: Delta SkyMiles allows members to earn miles for free flights, upgrades, and other perks.
Delta’s extensive network and consistent service quality make it a strong contender for flights to Japan.
4. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines, often hailed as one of the best airlines globally, operates flights to Japan with a stopover in Singapore. While not a direct flight, the exceptional service and comfort make it a worthwhile option.
- Pricing: Round-trip fares start at around $1,000 for economy class, with business class tickets costing approximately $4,000.
- Features: Known for luxurious service, Singapore Airlines offers spacious seating, gourmet meals, and an extensive selection of inflight entertainment. The airline’s Business Class features lie-flat seats and personalized service.
- Frequent Flyer Program: KrisFlyer members earn miles that can be redeemed for flights and upgrades with Singapore Airlines and partner airlines.
Singapore Airlines is ideal for travelers seeking luxury and comfort on their journey to Japan.
5. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways, another highly-rated airline, offers flights to Japan via its hub in Doha. While the journey includes a stopover, the airline’s excellent service makes it a popular choice.
- Pricing: Economy class fares typically start at $900, with business class tickets ranging from $3,200 to $4,500.
- Features: Qatar Airways provides spacious seating, top-tier inflight dining, and a wide array of entertainment options. Their Qsuite Business Class features private suites and lie-flat beds.
- Frequent Flyer Program: Privilege Club members earn Qmiles, redeemable for flights, upgrades, and more.
Qatar Airways’ award-winning service and comfort make it a compelling choice for travelers heading to Japan.
6. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific offers flights to Japan with a stopover in Hong Kong, combining quality service with a convenient transit experience.
- Pricing: Round-trip economy class fares start at around $950, with business class tickets averaging $3,500.
- Features: Cathay Pacific provides comfortable seating, a diverse range of inflight meals, and a rich entertainment selection. Their Business Class offers lie-flat seats and personalized service.
- Frequent Flyer Program: Marco Polo Club and Asia Miles programs offer rewards and benefits to frequent travelers.
Cathay Pacific’s blend of service quality and connectivity makes it a favored airline for those traveling to Japan from various global locations.
The Best Airlines to Fly to Japan Using Points
While various airlines can provide a comfortable journey to Japan, they may not always be the most advantageous for award flights. For those looking to redeem points or miles for travel to Japan, the following airlines offer the best value.
1. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
For aficionados of points and miles, ANA is the crown jewel when flying to Japan. This airline’s reward flights present a treasure trove of opportunities, with numerous loyalty programs providing advantageous award pricing. Notably, ANA’s Mileage Club often offers more favorable terms than partner programs, particularly for round-trip awards.
Award Pricing:
- Economy Class: 40,000 miles for a round trip during off-peak seasons.
- Premium Economy: 62,000 miles round trip.
- Business Class: 75,000 miles round trip.
Even in peak seasons, ANA’s round-trip award pricing remains competitive compared to other carriers. However, one should be mindful of the hefty carrier-imposed surcharges on ANA flights, which can inflate the overall cost.
Building Your ANA Mileage Club Miles:
You can bolster your ANA Mileage Club account by transferring points from American Express Membership Rewards, maintaining a 1:1 transfer ratio. Alternatively, convert Marriott Bonvoy points to ANA miles at a 3:1 ratio, with an added bonus of 5,000 miles for transfers of 60,000 Bonvoy points or more.
For those seeking one-way awards, the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club is a viable option. With as few as 30,000 miles, you can secure an economy seat on ANA for a one-way flight from the U.S. mainland to Japan. Upgrade options are available at 45,000 miles for business class or 55,000 miles for first class. All major transferable points programs allow for transfers to Virgin Atlantic, though Capital One miles must first be transferred via Virgin Red.
2. American Airlines
While American Airlines might not have clinched a top spot on the list of best airlines to Japan, it certainly shines when it comes to redeeming points and miles, offering several alluring options for savvy travelers.
AAdvantage Program:
The American Airlines AAdvantage program allows you to reserve MileSAAver award flights from the U.S. mainland to Japan with the following mileage requirements:
- Economy Class (Off-Peak): 32,500 miles each way
- Economy Class (Standard): 35,000 miles each way
- Premium Economy: 50,000 miles each way
- Flagship Business Class: 60,000 miles each way
Through a strategic partnership with Etihad Guest, these award flights can be secured for even fewer miles. Off-peak economy flights are priced at 25,000 Etihad Guest miles each way, while business class flights cost 50,000 miles one way.
The caveat? You can’t book these award flights online. You need to verify availability online and then reach out to Etihad Guest by phone to complete the booking process. Accumulate Etihad Guest miles by transferring points at a 1:1 ratio from American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One Miles, or Citi ThankYou points.
3. Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines not only ranks among the finest carriers for flights to Japan but also offers tremendous value for those utilizing miles. For Alaska Mileage Plan members, flying Japan Airlines to Japan—or beyond to other Asian destinations—can be done with the following mileage rates:
- Economy Class: 35,000 miles each way
- Business Class: 60,000 miles each way
- First Class: 70,000 miles each way
Alaska Mileage Plan allows for a complimentary stopover in Tokyo when heading to another Asian destination, without incurring extra miles.
For American Airlines AAdvantage members, similar rates are available, though without the stopover perk. For instance, Japan Airlines first class is available for 80,000 AAdvantage miles compared to 70,000 Mileage Plan miles. On the plus side, AAdvantage members can secure Japan Airlines premium economy for 50,000 miles each way.
JAL Mileage Bank:
For optimal value, consider using JAL Mileage Bank miles to book Japan Airlines awards to Japan. Flights between North America and Japan can be obtained for:
- Economy Class: 25,000 miles each way
- Premium Economy: 32,500 miles each way
- Business Class: 50,000 miles each way
- First Class: 70,000 miles each way
The challenge lies in the fact that JAL Mileage Bank isn’t linked to any major U.S. bank points programs. The most effective transfer option is through Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio.
4. United Airlines
Among the U.S. airlines, United Airlines presents a compelling choice for those eyeing award flights to Japan. One of the most economical mileage avenues is booking through ANA Mileage Club, with round trips priced at a mere 50,000 miles.
However, it’s worth noting that ANA imposes substantial carrier fees on United award flights. Alternatively, booking United economy award flights directly through United can be done for as little as 35,000 United MileagePlus miles each way. If you find your mileage stash lacking, consider transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards points to boost your United account.
In theory, you can secure a seat in United Polaris business class for 70,000 United MileagePlus miles or 75,000 Aeroplan points per leg, with minimal taxes and fees. Alternatively, this can be achieved for 85,000 ANA Mileage Club miles round trip, albeit with steeper fees. It should be noted, though, that United is notoriously tight-fisted when it comes to releasing international award availability to general members.
5. Flying to Japan: A Recap
In truth, there is no singularly wrong way to embark on a journey to Japan. With its mesmerizing blend of ancient shrines, delectable cuisine, and distinctive cultural experiences, Japan is a destination that justifies any mode of air travel. Nevertheless, certain airlines do offer a more plush transit across the Pacific.
Whether you’re planning to book using cash or miles, Japan Airlines and ANA remain at the forefront of airlines to consider for flights to Japan. Following closely, our recommendations diverge. In terms of point and mile redemption, both American and United present enticing options. On the other hand, if opting for a paid flight, consider Singapore Airlines or Delta to ensure a more luxurious journey.
What are the advantages of flying with a Japanese airline versus a U.S. airline?
Flying with Japanese airlines, such as Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA), offers several advantages over U.S. airlines when traveling to Japan. Here are some key points of comparison:
1. In-Flight Experience
Japanese airlines are renowned for their exceptional in-flight service. Both JAL and ANA consistently rank among the top airlines globally, offering high-quality meals, attentive service, and comfortable seating. For instance, JAL’s economy class features wider seats with more legroom compared to many U.S. carriers, enhancing overall passenger comfort.
2. Cabin Configuration
Japanese airlines often provide more spacious cabin configurations. JAL’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners have eight seats per row in economy class, as opposed to the typical nine seats offered by many U.S. airlines. This results in a more comfortable journey with better seat spacing.
3. Meal Quality
The culinary experience on Japanese airlines is typically superior, with a focus on authentic Japanese cuisine. Meals are often presented in a multi-course format, showcasing traditional dishes that are well-prepared and thoughtfully curated. This contrasts with the more standardized meal options frequently found on U.S. carriers, which may not prioritize quality as highly.
4. Baggage Policies
Both JAL and ANA generally offer more generous baggage policies without additional fees. For example, they allow at least two free checked bags, which is often more favorable than the baggage policies of U.S. airlines that may charge for checked luggage, especially on lower fare classes.
5. Punctuality and Reliability
Japanese airlines are known for their punctuality and reliability. They have a strong track record of on-time departures and arrivals, which can be a significant advantage for travelers concerned about making connections or adhering to tight schedules.
6. Cultural Experience
Traveling with a Japanese airline provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture from the moment you board. This includes not only the food and service but also the overall atmosphere, which reflects Japan’s hospitality and attention to detail.
7. Frequent Flyer Programs
Both JAL and ANA offer robust frequent flyer programs that can be advantageous for travelers. These programs often provide better redemption options and more benefits compared to those offered by U.S. airlines, especially for flights within Asia.In summary, while U.S. airlines are increasing their services to Japan, flying with Japanese carriers like JAL and ANA often results in a more comfortable, culturally enriching, and reliable travel experience.
When considering what other airlines go to Japan that are good, these six airlines stand out for their exceptional service, competitive pricing, and unique features. Whether you prioritize luxury, convenience, or value, each airline offers distinct advantages to enhance your travel experience to Japan. Be sure to compare prices and features to find the best option that suits your travel needs and preferences.
By choosing the right airline, you can ensure a comfortable and memorable journey to the Land of the Rising Sun.
