12 Best Airlines to Fly to Japan

Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is a destination that blends the ancient with the ultramodern. 

From the serene temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, it's no wonder that Japan is on the bucket list of many travelers. 

But as you dream about your trip to Japan, an important question arises: Which airline should you choose to get there?

1. All Nippon Airways (ANA) - The Epitome of Japanese Hospitality 

All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, is Japan’s largest airline and has a stellar reputation for its exceptional service and attention to detail. 

ANA operates numerous international routes to Japan from cities around the world, making it a top choice for travelers.

Why Choose ANA?

• In-flight Experience: ANA is known for its impeccable service, which begins the moment you step onto the plane. The cabin crew is trained to provide the highest level of hospitality, ensuring your flight is as comfortable as possible.
• Comfortable Seating: Whether you’re flying in economy, premium economy, business, or first class, ANA offers comfortable seating with ample legroom and amenities. Their business and first-class seats are among the best in the industry, often featuring fully flat beds and private cabins.
• Dining Options: ANA offers a range of dining options, including traditional Japanese meals. The airline is known for its attention to detail in meal preparation, often collaborating with top chefs to provide a restaurant-quality experience at 35,000 feet.
• Entertainment: With a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games, ANA ensures that you’re entertained throughout your flight.

Key Routes to Japan

ANA operates direct flights to major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya from various global hubs, including Los Angeles, New York, London, and Sydney.

2. Japan Airlines (JAL) - A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Japan Airlines (JAL) is the flag carrier of Japan and a member of the One-world alliance. 

It is widely recognized for its excellent service, punctuality, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Why Choose JAL?

• Service Excellence: JAL’s service is deeply rooted in the Japanese concept of "omotenashi," which means wholehearted hospitality. The cabin crew is attentive and responsive, ensuring that all your needs are met.
• Cabin Comfort: JAL’s Sky Suite is one of the best business-class offerings, featuring fully flat beds and a considerable amount of personal space. Economy and premium economy classes also provide a comfortable experience with spacious seating and thoughtful amenities.
• Culinary Experience: JAL collaborates with renowned chefs to create an exquisite in-flight dining experience. Passengers can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine as well as international dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients.
• Entertainment System: The MAGIC in-flight entertainment system offers a broad range of movies, TV shows, music, and games to keep you entertained during your flight.

Key Routes to Japan

JAL offers direct flights to Japan from major cities such as San Francisco, Chicago, Paris, and Bangkok. They also provide numerous domestic connections within Japan, making it convenient for travelers to explore different regions.

3. Singapore Airlines - The Pinnacle of Luxury and Service

Singapore Airlines is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best airlines, known for its luxurious service and top-notch amenities. 

While it is not a Japanese airline, it is a popular choice for travelers heading to Japan via Singapore.

Why Choose Singapore Airlines?

• Unparalleled Service: Singapore Airlines is synonymous with luxury and attentive service. The cabin crew is highly trained and ensures that every aspect of your journey is flawless.
• Luxurious Cabins: Whether you’re flying in the spacious economy class or the ultra-luxurious Suites, Singapore Airlines offers one of the most comfortable in-flight experiences. Their business and first-class cabins are especially renowned for their privacy, comfort, and cutting-edge design.
• Gourmet Dining: Singapore Airlines offers a "Book the Cook" service, allowing premium passengers to pre-order gourmet meals crafted by world-renowned chefs. The airline also offers a wide selection of fine wines and spirits.
• State-of-the-Art Entertainment: The KrisWorld entertainment system provides a vast library of movies, TV shows, music, and games, ensuring that you have plenty of options to keep you entertained.

Key Routes to Japan

Singapore Airlines offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka from Singapore. They also offer convenient connections from other parts of Asia, Europe, and the Americas, making it a great option for travelers flying to Japan from different regions.

4. Cathay Pacific - Comfort and Convenience via Hong Kong

Cathay Pacific, based in Hong Kong, is another excellent choice for travelers flying to Japan. The airline is known for its high standards of service, comfort, and reliability.

Why Choose Cathay Pacific?

• Superior Service: Cathay Pacific prides itself on offering consistent and high-quality service. The cabin crew is attentive and professional, ensuring that your flight is comfortable and enjoyable.
• Comfortable Seating: Cathay Pacific offers comfortable seating across all classes. Their business class is particularly noteworthy, with fully flat beds and direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing privacy and comfort.
• Delicious Meals: The in-flight dining experience on Cathay Pacific is excellent, with a variety of options that include both Asian and Western dishes. The airline also caters to special dietary requirements with a range of meal options.
• Entertainment Options: The Studio CX in-flight entertainment system offers a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is user-friendly and available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

Cathay Pacific offers flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo from Hong Kong. For travelers flying from Europe, Australia, or North America, Cathay Pacific offers convenient connections through its Hong Kong hub.

5. Korean Air - A Friendly Gateway via Seoul

Korean Air is one of the largest airlines in Asia and offers excellent service, making it a popular choice for travelers flying to Japan via Seoul.

Why Choose Korean Air?

• Warm Service: Korean Air is known for its friendly and attentive service. The cabin crew is always ready to assist you with a smile, making your flight experience pleasant and stress-free.
• Comfort Across Classes: Whether you’re flying in economy, prestige (business), or first class, Korean Air offers comfortable seating and ample legroom. Their prestige class features fully flat beds and a 2-2-2 configuration, providing plenty of space and privacy.
• In-flight Dining: Korean Air offers a variety of meal options, including traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap. The airline also caters to various dietary needs, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy their meals.
• Entertainment: The in-flight entertainment system offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and music. The system is easy to navigate, with content available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

Korean Air operates flights to various Japanese cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Sapporo, from its hub in Seoul. The airline offers numerous connections from North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia, making it a convenient option for travelers.

6. EVA Air - The Charm of Taiwan and Comfort in the Skies

EVA Air, based in Taiwan, is another top choice for travelers heading to Japan. The airline is known for its excellent service, comfortable cabins, and attention to detail.

Why Choose EVA Air?

• Attentive Service: EVA Air offers warm and attentive service, ensuring that your flight is comfortable and enjoyable. The cabin crew is highly trained and responsive to passengers' needs.
• Comfortable Seating: EVA Air’s economy and premium economy classes offer comfortable seating with good legroom. Their business class, known as Royal Laurel Class, features fully flat beds and a spacious layout, providing a luxurious experience.
• In-flight Dining: EVA Air offers a diverse menu with a range of Asian and Western dishes. The airline also caters to special dietary needs, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy their meals.
• Entertainment System: The Star Gallery in-flight entertainment system offers a broad selection of movies, TV shows, and music. The system is easy to use and available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

EVA Air offers direct flights to major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka from Taipei. The airline also provides convenient connections from other parts of Asia, North America, and Europe.

7. Qatar Airways - Award-Winning Service via Doha

Qatar Airways, known for its luxurious service and world-class amenities, is a popular choice for travelers flying to Japan via Doha. The airline has won numerous awards for its service and in-flight experience.

Why Choose Qatar Airways?

• Exceptional Service: Qatar Airways is renowned for its high level of service, with a cabin crew that goes above and beyond to make your flight comfortable. The airline is consistently ranked among the best in the world for its service.
• Luxurious Cabins: Qatar Airways offers one of the best business class experiences in the world, known as Qsuite, which features private suites with fully flat beds and direct aisle access. Economy class is also comfortable, with spacious seating and excellent amenities.
• Gourmet Dining: Qatar Airways offers a fine dining experience in the sky, with a menu curated by top chefs. The airline offers a wide selection of meals, including options for special dietary requirements.
• Entertainment System: The Oryx One in-flight entertainment system offers a vast selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is available in multiple languages and is easy to navigate.

Key Routes to Japan

Qatar Airways offers direct flights to Tokyo and Osaka from its hub in Doha. The airline also provides connections to other cities in Japan via code share agreements with Japanese carriers.

8. Emirates - Luxury and Style via Dubai

Emirates, based in Dubai, is another top choice for travelers flying to Japan. The airline is known for its luxurious service, modern fleet, and extensive global network.

Why Choose Emirates?

• Luxurious Service: Emirates is synonymous with luxury and offers a top-notch service experience across all classes. The cabin crew is attentive and professional, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is smooth and enjoyable.
• Comfortable Seating: Emirates offers spacious and comfortable seating across all classes. Their business and first-class cabins are particularly noteworthy, with fully flat beds, private suites, and access to an onboard lounge.
• Dining Experience: Emirates offers a gourmet dining experience with a wide range of meal options, including dishes inspired by the region you’re flying to. The airline also offers an extensive selection of fine wines and spirits.
• Entertainment Options: The ICE entertainment system is one of the best in the industry, offering over 4,000 channels of entertainment, including movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is available in multiple languages and is easy to use.

Key Routes to Japan

Emirates offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major Japanese cities from its hub in Dubai. The airline also provides convenient connections from Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

9. Turkish Airlines - A Taste of Europe and Asia via Istanbul

Turkish Airlines, based in Istanbul, is a popular choice for travelers flying to Japan. The airline is known for its excellent service, comfortable cabins, and extensive network that connects Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Why Choose Turkish Airlines?

• Excellent Service: Turkish Airlines is known for its high level of service, with a cabin crew that is friendly and attentive. The airline has won numerous awards for its service quality.
• Comfortable Seating: Turkish Airlines offers comfortable seating across all classes. Their business class is particularly noteworthy, featuring fully flat beds and a spacious layout. The economy class also offers good legroom and comfortable seats.
• In-flight Dining: Turkish Airlines offers a unique dining experience with a focus on Turkish cuisine. The airline’s "Flying Chefs" prepare meals on board, ensuring that they are fresh and flavorful. The airline also offers a wide selection of international dishes and caters to special dietary needs.
• Entertainment System: The Planet entertainment system offers a broad selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is available in multiple languages and is easy to navigate.

Key Routes to Japan

Turkish Airlines offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major Japanese cities from its hub in Istanbul. The airline also provides convenient connections from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

10. United Airlines - Reliable Service from the U.S. to Japan

United Airlines, a major U.S. carrier and a member of the Star Alliance is a reliable choice for travelers flying to Japan from the United States. The airline offers numerous routes and connections to Japan.

Why Choose United Airlines?

• Consistent Service: United Airlines offers a consistent and reliable service, with a cabin crew that is professional and attentive. The airline has improved its service quality in recent years, making it a solid choice for long-haul flights.
• Comfortable Cabins: United Airlines offers comfortable seating across all classes. Their Polaris business class features fully flat beds and direct aisle access, providing a comfortable and private experience. Economy and premium economy classes also offer good legroom and comfortable seats.
• In-flight Dining: United Airlines offers a variety of meal options, including special meals for dietary requirements. The airline has also improved its in-flight dining experience, offering fresh and flavorful meals on international flights.
• Entertainment System: The United Private Screening entertainment system offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is easy to use and available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

United Airlines offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major Japanese cities from its hubs in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Newark. The airline also provides numerous connections within Japan through its partnership with ANA.

11. American Airlines - A Trusted Name in Transpacific Travel

American Airlines, another major U.S. carrier and a member of the Oneworld alliance offers numerous routes to Japan. The airline is a popular choice for travelers flying from the United States to Japan.

Why Choose American Airlines?

• Trusted Service: American Airlines offers a reliable and consistent service, with a cabin crew that is professional and attentive. The airline has a long history of transpacific travel, making it a trusted choice for flights to Japan.
• Comfortable Seating: American Airlines offers comfortable seating across all classes. Their Flagship Business class features fully flat beds and direct aisle access, providing a comfortable and private experience. Economy and premium economy classes also offer good legroom and comfortable seats.
• In-flight Dining: American Airlines offers a variety of meal options, including special meals for dietary requirements. The airline has also improved its in-flight dining experience, offering fresh and flavorful meals on international flights.
• Entertainment System: The American Airlines entertainment system offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is easy to use and available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

American Airlines offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major Japanese cities from its hubs in Dallas, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The airline also provides numerous connections within Japan through its partnership with JAL.

12. Delta Air Lines - Connecting the U.S. to Japan with Ease

Delta Air Lines, a major U.S. carrier and a member of the SkyTeam alliance offers numerous routes to Japan. The airline is known for its reliable service and extensive network, making it a popular choice for travelers flying from the United States to Japan.

Why Choose Delta Air Lines?

• Reliable Service: Delta Air Lines offers a reliable and consistent service, with a cabin crew that is professional and attentive. The airline has a strong presence in the transpacific market, making it a trusted choice for flights to Japan.
• Comfortable Seating: Delta Air Lines offers comfortable seating across all classes. Their Delta One business class features fully flat beds and direct aisle access, providing a comfortable and private experience. Economy and premium economy classes also offer good legroom and comfortable seats.
• In-flight Dining: Delta Air Lines offers a variety of meal options, including special meals for dietary requirements. The airline has also improved its in-flight dining experience, offering fresh and flavorful meals on international flights.
• Entertainment System: The Delta Studio entertainment system offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is easy to use and available in multiple languages.

Key Routes to Japan

Delta Air Lines offers direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major Japanese cities from its hubs in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. The airline also provides numerous connections within Japan through its partnership with Korean Air.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Flight to Japan Awaits

Choosing the right airline for your journey to Japan is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you prioritize luxury, service, or convenience, there is an airline that will meet your needs. 

From the impeccable service of ANA and JAL to the luxurious offerings of Singapore Airlines and Emirates, the options are plentiful. 

Consider your preferences and priorities, and book your flight with confidence, knowing that a memorable journey to Japan is just a boarding pass away.

Happy travels!