How Long Are Flights to Japan? Find Out the Flight Times from Major Continents

How Long Are Flights to Japan? Find Out the Flight Times from Major Continents

Dreaming of exploring Japan's bustling cities, serene temples, and scenic landscapes? Knowing how long you'll be in the air is key for planning your adventure. 

Whether you're flying from North America, Europe, or Australia, we'll break down the travel times and distances so you can be prepared for your trip.


ⓄFlight Times to Japan from Different Continents

1. North America to Japan

Distance: Around 5,500 to 7,000 miles (8,850 to 11,265 km)
Flight Time: 10 to 14 hours
  • Major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vancouver have non-stop flights to Japan. From Los Angeles to Tokyo, expect an average flight of about 11 hours. If you’re flying from the East Coast, such as New York, the journey will be closer to 13-14 hours due to the increased distance.


2. Europe to Japan

Distance: Approximately 5,500 to 6,300 miles (8,850 to 10,140 km)
Flight Time: 11 to 13 hours
  • Flights from major European hubs like London, Paris, and Frankfurt typically take around 11 to 12 hours to reach Tokyo. The distance from London to Tokyo is approximately 5,900 miles (9,500 km), making it one of the shorter long-haul trips between Europe and Japan.


3. Australia to Japan

Distance: 4,200 to 5,500 miles (6,760 to 8,850 km)
Flight Time: 9 to 11 hours
  • If you’re flying from Sydney or Melbourne, the flight will typically be around 9 to 10 hours. Flights from northern Australia, such as from Darwin, can be shorter due to the closer proximity to Asia, with travel times averaging around 7 hours.


4. Asia to Japan

Distance: Varies widely depending on the location, ranging from 500 to 3,200 miles (800 to 5,150 km)
Flight Time: 1 to 6 hours
  • For those coming from nearby Asian countries, the flight to Japan is relatively short. For example, flights from Seoul take about 2 hours, while those from Beijing average 3 hours. Flying from Southeast Asia, like from Bangkok, will take closer to 6 hours.


5. South America to Japan

Distance: Around 10,800 miles (17,380 km)
Flight Time: 21 to 24 hours (with connections)
  • There are typically no direct flights from South America to Japan, so a stopover in the U.S. or Europe is often required. Total travel time, including layovers, usually ranges between 21 and 24 hours. For example, a flight from São Paulo to Tokyo, with a stop in New York, could take around 23 hours in total.


6. Africa to Japan

Distance: 7,000 to 9,000 miles (11,265 to 14,485 km)
Flight Time: 14 to 16 hours
  • Major African hubs like Johannesburg or Nairobi often require one or more stopovers, typically in the Middle East or Europe. From Johannesburg, expect the flight duration to be around 15 hours, including layovers.



Tips for Your Flight to Japan:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay refreshed during long flights.
  • Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, breathable clothing and consider layers for changing temperatures.
  • Move Around: Take short walks or stretch every few hours to prevent stiffness.
  • Entertainment: Bring a book, download movies, or have music ready to keep entertained.
  • Snacks: Pack healthy snacks to avoid relying solely on in-flight meals.
  • Time Zone Adjustment: Try adjusting your sleep schedule before departure to help combat jet lag.


ⓄKey Factors Affecting Flight Duration

  • Wind Patterns: Tailwinds can reduce flight time, especially when traveling from west to east.
  • Stopovers: Non-direct flights with layovers add several hours to the total travel time.
  • Season: Some routes may offer faster travel times depending on the season, as airlines optimize flight paths.


Conclusion

Whether you're flying from the bustling streets of New York or the sun-soaked beaches of Sydney, reaching Japan may take a few hours or more than a day, depending on your starting point. 

By understanding the flight times and distances, you can plan your journey and prepare for the adventure that awaits in this stunning destination.