Yes, you can get a flight from Japan to Arizona, though there are currently no direct nonstop flights between the two locations. All journeys require at least one connection, typically through major U.S. West Coast cities.
This shouldn’t discourage travelers, as there are numerous well-established routes with convenient connections making this journey entirely feasible.
Japan offers several international departure points, with Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) serving as the primary gateways.
In Arizona, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the main destination, though some travelers might also consider Tucson International Airport (TUS) depending on their final destination within the state.
The typical journey from Japan to Arizona takes approximately 13-17 hours total travel time, including connections. The longest segment—usually from Tokyo to a West Coast U.S. city—takes about 10-12 hours, followed by a shorter domestic flight to Phoenix (1-2 hours).
While this represents a significant travel day, these routes are well-serviced by major airlines including Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), American Airlines, and United Airlines.
Most connections occur through Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), or Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
These layovers typically range from 1-4 hours, though some travelers might consider extending their stopover to break up the journey or explore another destination briefly.
For travelers planning this journey, understanding these basic parameters will help set realistic expectations and allow for more effective trip planning.
Flight Paths and Stopover Options from Japan to Arizona
When planning your journey from Japan to Arizona, understanding the available flight paths and stopover options is crucial. While direct flights from Japan to Arizona don’t exist, several efficient connecting routes can get you there with minimal hassle.
Common Flight Paths
The most frequent routes from Japan to Arizona follow these patterns:
- Tokyo (NRT/HND) → Los Angeles (LAX) → Phoenix (PHX)
- Tokyo (NRT/HND) → San Francisco (SFO) → Phoenix (PHX)
- Tokyo (NRT/HND) → Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) → Phoenix (PHX)
- Tokyo (NRT/HND) → Seattle (SEA) → Phoenix (PHX)
- Osaka (KIX) → Los Angeles (LAX) → Phoenix (PHX)
These established routes offer the most reliable connections and are serviced by major international carriers.
Major Stopover Cities
Your journey will include at least one stopover in a major U.S. hub city. Each offers distinct advantages:
| Stopover City | Advantages | Typical Layover Time |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | Most frequent connections, shortest overall travel time | 2-4 hours |
| San Francisco (SFO) | Good connection options, international amenities | 2-5 hours |
| Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) | American Airlines hub, efficient customs processing | 2-4 hours |
| Seattle (SEA) | Less crowded, often cheaper tickets | 2-5 hours |
| Chicago (ORD) | Multiple daily connections to Phoenix | 3-5 hours |
Comparing Route Options
When choosing between different routes, consider these factors:
Los Angeles Route: The most popular option with the highest frequency of connecting flights to Phoenix. Total travel time typically ranges from 14-16 hours.
San Francisco Route: Often comparable in price to the LAX route but may have slightly longer layovers. Total travel time usually falls between 15-17 hours.
Dallas Route: Excellent for those flying American Airlines or JAL due to their codeshare agreement. Total journey time averages 16-18 hours.
Seattle Route: Can be a good alternative during peak travel seasons when other routes are congested. Total travel time typically ranges from 15-18 hours.
“The Los Angeles connection often provides the smoothest experience for first-time travelers due to its frequency of flights and well-established international terminal facilities.”
Typical Layover Durations
Layovers when flying from Japan to Arizona typically fall into these ranges:
- Short layovers: 1.5-3 hours (tight but doable)
- Standard layovers: 3-5 hours (comfortable transition time)
- Long layovers: 5+ hours (potential for leaving the airport)
For international travelers, a minimum 2-hour layover is recommended to clear U.S. customs and immigration at your first point of entry.
Best Connecting Airports
Each major connecting airport offers different advantages:
Los Angeles International (LAX)
- Highest number of daily flights to Phoenix
- Extensive dining and shopping options
- International arrival facilities designed for efficient processing
San Francisco International (SFO)
- Modern international terminal with premium amenities
- Good transportation options if you want an extended stopover
- Yoga rooms and relaxation areas for long layovers
Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)
- Efficient Skylink train system connecting all terminals
- American Airlines Admirals Club lounges in multiple terminals
- Good dining options featuring Texas cuisine
Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA)
- Less crowded than other major hubs
- Pacific Northwest dining options and coffee culture
- Art installations and music performances throughout terminals
For the most seamless experience, Los Angeles and Dallas typically offer the most efficient connections to Phoenix, with well-coordinated flight schedules and terminal transfers designed for international passengers continuing to domestic destinations.
Also Read: Can You Get a Flight from Japan to Nevada
Major Airports and Airlines for Japan to Arizona Flights
When planning your journey from Japan to Arizona, understanding your departure and arrival options is crucial. While there are no direct flights between these destinations, several major airports and airlines offer convenient connecting routes.
Departure Airports in Japan
Tokyo serves as the primary gateway for flights to the United States, with two international airports offering extensive connectivity:
- Narita International Airport (NRT) – Located approximately 60km east of central Tokyo, Narita handles the majority of international flights from Japan. Major carriers like Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), American Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights to the U.S. from this hub.
- Haneda Airport (HND) – Closer to downtown Tokyo (about 14km south), Haneda has expanded its international offerings in recent years. Many travelers prefer Haneda for its convenient location and modern facilities. JAL and ANA operate several flights to U.S. destinations from this airport.
Beyond Tokyo, other departure options include:
- Kansai International Airport (KIX) – Serving the Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe region, KIX offers flights to major U.S. hubs that connect to Arizona.
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) – Located near Nagoya, this airport provides another option for travelers in central Japan.
Arrival Options in Arizona
When flying to Arizona from Japan, your primary destination will be:
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – As Arizona’s largest and busiest airport, PHX serves as the main gateway to the state. Located just 3 miles east of downtown Phoenix, it offers excellent connectivity to other Arizona destinations.
Secondary options include:
- Tucson International Airport (TUS) – For travelers heading to southern Arizona, connecting to Tucson after your international flight is possible, though typically requires an additional stop.
Airlines Operating Japan-Arizona Routes
Several major carriers offer service between Japan and Arizona through connecting flights:
| Airline | Japan Departure | Common Connection Points | Service to Arizona |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan Airlines (JAL) | NRT, HND | Los Angeles (LAX), Dallas (DFW) | PHX |
| All Nippon Airways (ANA) | NRT, HND | San Francisco (SFO), Chicago (ORD) | PHX |
| American Airlines | NRT, HND | Dallas (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX) | PHX, TUS |
| United Airlines | NRT, HND | San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN) | PHX |
| Delta Air Lines | NRT, HND | Seattle (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX) | PHX |
Codeshare Partnerships
Codeshare agreements make booking your journey more convenient. Key partnerships include:
- Oneworld Alliance: Japan Airlines partners with American Airlines, allowing seamless booking from Japan to Arizona on a single itinerary.
- Star Alliance: ANA works with United Airlines to provide coordinated service and smoother connections.
- SkyTeam: Delta partners with Korean Air, offering additional routing options through Seoul.
These partnerships typically offer benefits like:
- Coordinated flight schedules to minimize connection times
- Through-checked baggage to your final destination
- Shared frequent flyer benefits
- Simplified booking processes
Terminal Information
When connecting in the U.S., international arrivals require clearing customs and immigration before proceeding to domestic terminals.
Major connection points like LAX and SFO have efficient processes for international-to-domestic transfers, though you should allow at least 2-3 hours for these connections.
At Phoenix Sky Harbor, most international connecting flights arrive at Terminal 4, which houses American Airlines and international carriers, making for convenient connections to other Arizona destinations.
Flight Duration and Managing Time Differences
When planning your journey from Japan to Arizona, understanding the total travel time and preparing for time zone changes is essential for a smooth trip. Let’s break down what you can expect during this long-haul journey.
Total Travel Time
The total travel time from Japan to Arizona typically ranges from 13 to 17 hours, depending on your specific route and layover duration. This includes:
- In-air flying time (approximately 10-12 hours for the trans-Pacific segment)
- Connection/layover time (typically 1-4 hours)
- Airport procedures at both ends and during connections
Since there are no direct flights between Japan and Arizona, your journey will always include at least one connection, which extends the overall travel time.
In-Air Flying Time by Segment
Your journey will be divided into distinct flight segments:
| Flight Segment | Approximate Duration |
|---|---|
| Tokyo (NRT/HND) to West Coast hub (LAX, SFO, SEA) | 9-11 hours |
| West Coast hub to Phoenix (PHX) | 1-2 hours |
| Tokyo to Dallas/Chicago/Houston | 11-13 hours |
| Dallas/Chicago/Houston to Phoenix | 2-3 hours |
The longest segment will be your trans-Pacific flight, which requires the most preparation for comfort.
Time Zone Differences
The time difference between Japan and Arizona is significant and can impact your travel experience:
- Japan to Arizona time difference: Japan is 16 hours ahead of Arizona during standard time (when Arizona is not observing Daylight Saving Time)
- When it’s 3:00 PM in Tokyo, it’s 11:00 PM the previous day in Phoenix
This dramatic time shift means you’ll be crossing the International Date Line, effectively “gaining a day” when flying eastbound from Japan to Arizona.
Tips for Managing Jet Lag
Crossing so many time zones can lead to significant jet lag. Here are some effective strategies to minimize its impact:
- Before your flight: Begin adjusting your sleep schedule 2-3 days before departure
- During the flight: Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine
- Set your watch: Change your watch to your destination time zone when boarding
- Strategic sleeping: Try to sleep during your flight when it would be nighttime at your destination
- Light exposure: Seek natural light upon arrival to help reset your circadian rhythm
- Stay awake until local bedtime: Push through tiredness on arrival day to adapt more quickly
“The best way to overcome jet lag is to immediately adopt the local schedule upon arrival. Fight the urge to nap during the day, even if you’re exhausted.”
What to Expect During Your Long-Haul Flight
Preparing for the extended time in the air will make your journey more comfortable:
In-flight amenities: Most trans-Pacific flights offer:
- Multiple meal services
- Personal entertainment systems
- Blankets and pillows
- Occasional snack services
Movement opportunities:
- Airlines recommend getting up and walking every 2-3 hours
- Simple in-seat stretches can help prevent stiffness
- Some airlines provide guided exercise videos
Comfort essentials to bring:
- Neck pillow and eye mask
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Compression socks for better circulation
- Entertainment downloads and power banks
Planning Your Arrival
Consider your arrival timing carefully:
- Flights from Japan typically arrive in the morning or afternoon at Phoenix Sky Harbor
- You’ll need to clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Allow extra time if you need to collect and recheck luggage during your connection
- Consider scheduling an easy first day in Arizona to adjust to the time difference
By understanding and preparing for the duration and time changes of your Japan to Arizona journey, you’ll be better equipped to arrive feeling refreshed and ready to begin your Arizona adventure.
Flight Costs & Money-Saving Booking Strategies
When planning your journey from Japan to Arizona, understanding the cost landscape can help you budget effectively and potentially save hundreds of dollars.
Flight prices on this route can vary significantly based on several factors including class of service, season, and how far in advance you book.
Economy vs. Premium Cabin Pricing
The price difference between economy and premium cabins is substantial on long-haul routes between Japan and Arizona:
| Cabin Class | One-Way Price Range | Round-Trip Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | $380-$1,400 | $760-$2,800 |
| Premium Economy | $1,200-$2,100 | $2,400-$4,200 |
| Business Class | $2,200-$5,500 | $4,400-$11,000 |
| First Class | $6,000-$12,000+ | $12,000-$24,000+ |
Economy class offers the most affordable option for budget-conscious travelers, with basic amenities for the long journey. During sales or off-peak periods, you might find one-way fares as low as $380, though the average hovers around $800-900.
Premium Economy provides extra legroom, enhanced meals, and priority boarding for approximately 2-3 times the cost of standard economy.
Business Class delivers a significantly upgraded experience with lie-flat beds, premium dining, lounge access, and enhanced service—ideal for those needing to arrive well-rested.
First Class, available on select carriers like JAL and ANA, represents the pinnacle of luxury with private suites, personalized service, and exclusive amenities, though at a premium price point.
Seasonal Price Variations
Flight prices between Japan and Arizona follow predictable seasonal patterns:
- Lowest Prices: October, November (excluding Thanksgiving), February (excluding Valentine’s Day)
- Moderate Prices: April, May, September
- Highest Prices: March (cherry blossom season), July-August (summer break), December (holiday season)
During peak travel seasons, economy fares can increase by 40-60% above baseline prices. March is particularly expensive due to Japan’s famous cherry blossom season coinciding with spring break travel in the US.
Traveler Tip: Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) can save you 10-15% compared to weekend departures, even during peak seasons.
The Advance Booking Advantage
Timing your booking can significantly impact what you pay:
- Book 3-6 months ahead: Save 15-25% on average
- Book 1-3 months ahead: Typical market rates apply
- Book <1 month ahead: Expect to pay 30-40% premium
- Last-minute bookings: Can occasionally yield deals but generally cost 50%+ more
For travel during peak seasons, extending your booking window to 6-8 months can secure better rates before seasonal demand drives prices upward.
Leveraging Loyalty Programs
Frequent flyer programs offer substantial value for regular travelers on this route:
- JAL Mileage Bank and ANA Mileage Club provide excellent redemption rates for Japan-US flights
- American Airlines AAdvantage and United MileagePlus offer partner bookings with Japanese carriers
- Credit card point transfers to these programs can yield business class tickets for the equivalent of $1,500-2,500 in points
Many travelers find that signing up for a Japanese airline’s loyalty program offers better long-term value for transpacific travel than US-based programs.
Essential Price Comparison Tools
To find the best deals, use multiple search platforms:
- Google Flights: Excellent for tracking price trends and setting alerts
- Skyscanner: Often finds smaller OTAs with lower prices
- Kayak: Good for flexible date searches
- Momondo: Sometimes finds unique routing options
- Airline websites directly: Often offer exclusive promotions and better cancellation policies
Setting price alerts on these platforms 3-6 months before your intended travel dates can help you catch fare drops and flash sales.
Budget-Friendly Booking Strategies
Beyond timing and tools, consider these money-saving approaches:
- Consider nearby airports: Flying into Las Vegas or Los Angeles and taking a short domestic flight can sometimes save $200-300
- Mix and match airlines: Booking separate tickets for transpacific and domestic legs occasionally yields savings
- Extended layovers: Some airlines offer free or discounted “stopover” programs in their hub cities
- Fifth freedom flights: These unique routes allow foreign carriers to fly between two countries neither is their home base, sometimes at competitive prices
- Package deals: Bundling flights with hotels can unlock exclusive discounts
- Monday fare releases: Many airlines release new fare sales early in the week
Multi-city itineraries can also provide value if you’re planning to visit multiple destinations. For example, flying into Phoenix and departing from Los Angeles or Las Vegas might cost the same as a round-trip to Phoenix alone.
Remember that the cheapest fare isn’t always the best value—consider baggage allowances, meal service, seat selection fees, and change policies when comparing total trip costs.
Best Times to Fly from Japan to Arizona
Planning your journey between Japan and Arizona requires strategic timing to secure the best fares and travel experience. The best time to fly from Japan to Arizona depends on several factors including seasonal demand, local events, and weather conditions in both locations.
Seasonal Flight Pricing
Flight prices between Japan and Arizona follow predictable seasonal patterns:
- Cheapest months: October, November (except Thanksgiving), January, and February typically offer the lowest fares, with average economy tickets ranging from $800-1,000 round-trip
- Most expensive months: March (cherry blossom season in Japan), July-August (summer vacation), and December (holiday season) see prices surge to $1,200-1,600 round-trip
- Shoulder seasons: April-May and September can offer reasonable fares with pleasant weather in both locations
Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel Considerations
Peak travel periods to avoid if seeking budget-friendly options:
- Golden Week (late April to early May) in Japan causes domestic flight prices to surge
- Obon Festival (mid-August) increases travel demand within Japan
- Spring Break (March) drives higher prices to Arizona
- Winter holidays (mid-December to early January) see maximum pricing on all routes
Off-peak advantages beyond just lower fares include:
- Less crowded airports and shorter security lines
- Better availability of preferred seating options
- More attentive service due to less passenger volume
- Greater flexibility with flight changes or upgrades
Events to Plan Around
In Japan:
- Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) – beautiful but expensive
- Tokyo Olympics (July-August 2024) – expect significantly higher prices
- New Year (December 28-January 4) – extremely busy travel period
In Arizona:
- Phoenix Open (early February) – increases demand for flights to Phoenix
- Spring Training (February-March) – baseball fans flock to Arizona
- Cactus League games drive up accommodation and flight prices
- Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction (January) – major event in Scottsdale
Weather Considerations
The climate difference between Japan and Arizona should influence your travel timing:
- Arizona summer (June-September): Extremely hot (100°F+/38°C+), but lowest hotel rates
- Arizona winter (December-February): Mild and pleasant (60-70°F/15-21°C), ideal for outdoor activities
- Japan summer: Hot and humid with typhoon season from August-October
- Japan winter: Cold in Tokyo and northern areas, with excellent skiing conditions
For the most comfortable experience in both locations, consider traveling in April-May or October-November when temperatures are moderate in both countries.
Best Days of the Week to Fly
Flight data analysis reveals clear patterns for the Japan-Arizona route:
| Day of Week | Price Level | Crowding Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Medium | Medium | Business travel day |
| Tuesday | Low | Low | Best overall value |
| Wednesday | Low | Low | Best for flexible travelers |
| Thursday | Medium | Medium | Increasing demand |
| Friday | High | High | Weekend travel begins |
| Saturday | Medium-High | Medium | Mixed leisure/business |
| Sunday | High | High | Avoid if possible |
“Tuesday and Wednesday departures can save travelers an average of 15-20% compared to Friday through Sunday flights on the Japan-Arizona route.”
Booking Timeline Strategy
To secure the best fares:
- Book international segments (Japan-US) approximately 3-5 months in advance
- For travel during peak seasons, extend this to 6-7 months ahead
- Set up price alerts through services like Google Flights, Skyscanner or Kayak
- Consider the “prime booking window” of 70-110 days before departure for optimal pricing
By strategically timing your flight between Japan and Arizona, you can significantly reduce costs while enjoying more favorable travel conditions and experiences in both locations.
Essential Travel Tips for Japan to Arizona Flights
When traveling from Japan to Arizona, preparation goes beyond simply booking your ticket. These essential tips will help ensure a smooth journey across the Pacific.
Visa Requirements
U.S. visa requirements are a crucial consideration for travelers from Japan. While Japanese citizens can enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for tourism or business stays up to 90 days, this requires:
- A valid electronic passport
- ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval obtained at least 72 hours before departure
- A return ticket or onward journey proof
Japanese travelers planning to study, work, or stay longer than 90 days will need to apply for the appropriate visa through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Japan. The application process typically requires:
- Completed application forms
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
- Application fee payment
- Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Pro Tip: Apply for your ESTA at least 2 weeks before your planned departure date to allow time for any unexpected issues.
Baggage Allowances for Transpacific Flights
Transpacific flights typically offer more generous baggage allowances than domestic routes, but policies vary by airline and fare class:
| Airline | Economy Class | Premium Economy | Business/First Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan Airlines | 2 bags × 23kg (50lbs) | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 32kg (70lbs) |
| ANA | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 32kg |
| American Airlines | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 32kg |
| United Airlines | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 23kg | 2 bags × 32kg |
Important considerations:
- Carry-on allowances typically include one bag (usually max 7-10kg) plus a personal item
- Oversized or overweight bags incur substantial fees (often $100-200 per bag)
- Sports equipment and special items may require pre-approval
Airport Navigation Tips
For departure from Japan:
Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) are massive international airports that can be overwhelming. Plan to:
- Arrive 3 hours before international departures
- Use the English signage available throughout both airports
- Download airport maps to your phone before travel day
- Consider using the efficient luggage delivery services if you’re spending time in Tokyo before your flight
For arrival at Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX):
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing can take 30-90 minutes depending on arrival time
- The PHX SkyTrain connects all terminals and the rental car center
- Ground transportation options (taxis, rideshares, shuttles) are located outside baggage claim
- The Valley Metro Rail connects the airport to downtown Phoenix and beyond
Entertainment Options for Long Flights
Transpacific flights can last 11+ hours for the longest leg, so entertainment is essential:
- Airline-provided options:
- Most airlines on this route offer seat-back entertainment systems with movies, TV shows, games, and music
- JAL and ANA are particularly noted for their extensive Japanese and international content
- Premium cabins often include larger screens and more content options
- Personal entertainment:
- Download content to your devices before departure
- Invest in noise-canceling headphones
- Consider an external battery pack for longer flights
- Bring physical books or e-readers as alternatives
Recommended Items to Pack
Beyond your regular luggage, consider these essentials for the long journey:
- Comfort items:
- Travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs
- Compression socks to prevent swelling
- Light blanket or large scarf (planes can get cold)
- Moisturizer and lip balm (cabin air is very dry)
- Practical necessities:
- Travel adapter (Japan uses Type A/B plugs at 100V; U.S. uses Type A/B at 120V)
- Medication in original packaging with prescription information
- Refillable water bottle (empty through security, fill after)
- Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer
- Documentation:
- Printed copies of important documents (passport, visa, itinerary)
- Digital backups stored securely in the cloud
- Travel insurance information
- Emergency contact details
Dealing with Language Barriers
While English is widely spoken in the aviation industry, language barriers can still present challenges:
- Before your trip:
- Learn basic Japanese phrases if departing from Japan
- Download a translation app like Google Translate with offline Japanese language pack
- Save important phrases in writing (both English and Japanese)
- At the airport:
- Look for staff wearing “English spoken” badges
- Use translation apps with conversation mode
- Allow extra time for communication challenges
- Use universal gestures and simple English
- During the flight:
- Flight attendants on international routes typically speak English
- Use the call button if you need assistance
- Consider writing down requests if verbal communication is difficult
Language Tip: In Japanese airports, information desks are marked with an “i” symbol, and staff can assist in English.
With proper preparation in these key areas, your journey from Japan to Arizona can be comfortable and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your destination rather than the challenges of getting there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights from Japan to Arizona
Are there direct flights from Japan to Arizona?
No, there are currently no direct flights from Japan to Arizona. All flights between these destinations require at least one stopover, typically in major U.S. gateway cities such as Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Dallas (DFW), or Seattle (SEA). This is because Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) doesn’t currently operate as an international gateway for flights from Asia.
What is the cheapest way to fly from Japan to Arizona?
The cheapest way to fly from Japan to Arizona is typically by:
- Booking 2-3 months in advance for the best rates
- Flying during off-peak seasons (April-May and September-October)
- Using flight comparison sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to monitor price drops
- Considering multi-airline itineraries rather than single-airline bookings
- Being flexible with departure dates and flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday)
- Setting price alerts for your preferred travel dates
Economy class fares can start as low as $800-900 round-trip during promotions, though $1,000-1,200 is more typical for a standard booking.
Which airlines offer the best service on this route?
The airlines consistently rated highest for Japan to Arizona routes include:
- Japan Airlines (JAL) – Known for excellent service, comfortable seating, and quality meals
- All Nippon Airways (ANA) – Offers premium service and has partnerships with United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines – Provides reliable service with good connectivity through Seattle
- American Airlines – Partners with JAL for seamless connections
Each airline has different strengths, with Japanese carriers typically offering superior in-flight meals and service quality, while U.S. carriers might offer more competitive pricing or better mileage program benefits for North American travelers.
What are the luggage policies for flights from Japan to Arizona?
Luggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class:
| Airline | Economy Checked Baggage | Business Checked Baggage | Carry-on Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAL | 2 bags (23kg each) | 2 bags (32kg each) | 1 bag + personal item |
| ANA | 2 bags (23kg each) | 2 bags (32kg each) | 1 bag + personal item |
| Delta | 1 bag (23kg) | 2 bags (32kg each) | 1 bag + personal item |
| American | 1 bag (23kg) | 2 bags (32kg each) | 1 bag + personal item |
| United | 1 bag (23kg) | 2 bags (32kg each) | 1 bag + personal item |
Important note: Always verify the current baggage policy when booking, as policies may change and can vary based on fare type and frequent flyer status.
What documents do I need to fly from Japan to Arizona?
For Japanese citizens:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date)
- ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval
- Return or onward ticket
For U.S. citizens returning from Japan:
- Valid U.S. passport
- Completed customs declaration form
For all travelers:
- Completed customs declaration form for U.S. entry
- Address of your accommodation in Arizona
How do I manage airport transfers in connecting cities?
When connecting through U.S. cities:
- All passengers must clear U.S. Customs and Immigration at their first point of entry into the United States
- Reclaim and recheck baggage at your first U.S. airport (except in some cases with through-checked baggage)
- Allow at least 2-3 hours for international connections in U.S. airports
- Use airport maps (available on airport websites or apps) to navigate between terminals
- Follow the “Connections” or “Transit” signs after clearing customs
For specific airports:
- LAX: Allow extra time as terminals can require shuttle transfers
- SFO: International Terminal connects to domestic terminals via AirTrain
- DFW: Skylink train connects all terminals post-security
- SEA: All gates are accessible via walking or train after security
Pro tip: Download the app for your connecting airport before travel to access maps, dining options, and real-time gate information.