11 Best Airlines for Premium Business Class to Japan from the USA

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Japan completely transformed my understanding of what travel could be. After testing nearly every premium cabin option across the Pacific, I can confidently tell you which airlines actually deliver an experience worth the hefty price tag versus which ones leave you feeling robbed.

While exploring the best places in Japan, like the electric energy of Tokyo’s Shibuya district and the serene temple gardens of Kyoto, I realized how crucial choosing the right business-class experience is for this long journey. I analyzed the 10 most-traveled routes from the US to Japan using industry tools and metrics—comparing verified seat configurations, fare histories from multiple sources, and official on-time records to give you the complete picture. These airlines offer premium experiences that actually justify their business class fare to the Land of the Rising Sun.

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The Best Business Class Flights to Japan from the US

Let’s discover the best airlines to fly business class to Japan from the USA with our detailed roundup. We compare comfort, service, and amenities to help you choose the perfect airline for your next luxurious trip! The prices indicated below are what you can usually get if you book during the low season, use miles and points, or sign up for fare alerts.

Don’t have time? Here are the best business class airlines to Japan from the US:

Highlights	Airline
Best In-Flight Service	Japan Airlines
Best Business Class Amenities	All Nippon Airways (ANA)
Best Connectivity	United Airlines
Best Frequent Flyer Program	British Airways
Best Domestic Network	American Airlines
Best North American Airline	Air Canada
Best Lounge Experience	Cathay Pacific
Best Overall Experience	Korean Air

1. 🇯🇵 Japan Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT)
• 💺 Business Class: Sky Suite with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: JAL Mileage Bank (Oneworld)
• ☕ Perks: Omotenashi hospitality, kaiseki dining, Airweave bedding, sake sommelier program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights to Haneda for closer access to central Tokyo, and try their domestic connections for an amazing short-haul business class experience

Japan Airlines absolutely nails the long haul from the US to Japan, and once you fly with them, other airlines start feeling pretty average. The airline’s Sky Suite business class gives you fully lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, so no awkward climbing over strangers when you need to get up. The seats are arranged to give you real privacy and turn into comfortable beds that actually work for sleeping during long-haul flights.

What stands out is the service and attention to detail. The meals are traditional kaiseki-style with multiple courses, beautifully presented and thoughtfully prepared. There’s a sake sommelier onboard to help with pairings, a wide range of entertainment choices, plus the Airweave mattress topper adds real comfort. And that famous omotenashi service? The crew really does seem to know what you need before you do.

Business class also gets you two free bags up to 70 lbs each, plus WiFi messaging and a user-friendly app for managing your trip. The JAL Mileage Bank works with Oneworld partners, so earning and using miles gets easier across different airlines. It’s a smooth experience from booking to arrival that quietly beats expectations at every turn.

Haneda Airport is closer to downtown Tokyo than Narita, which saves time and hassle. JAL’s lounges offer a peaceful escape, with Japanese-style showers, quiet rooms, and a calm atmosphere that feels like a soft landing before you even clear immigration. For those connecting within Japan, their short-haul business class includes real meal service and wide, comfortable seats.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Japan
• You may also like: Top Airlines in Japan

2. 🇯🇵 All Nippon Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT)
• 💺 Business Class: The Room with individual suites and sliding doors
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: ANA Mileage Club (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Individual suites with doors, premium bedding, “The Connoisseurs” dining program, Star Alliance benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip:  Book The Room on their 777-300ER for extra space and privacy, or try the 787 for a solid mid-haul experience that’s still super comfortable.

ANA’s “The Room” business class feels more like a mini studio than an airline seat. Each suite has its own sliding doors and plenty of space to stretch out. The layout gives you direct aisle access no matter where you sit, and the seat transforms into a lie-flat bed that’s actually comfortable for sleeping. For long flights from the US, especially from places like Seattle or Chicago, this setup makes a world of difference.

Service on ANA is thoughtful and refined without being stiff. The Connoisseurs dining program brings restaurant-quality meals with beautiful presentation and seasonal Japanese ingredients. You’ll find everything from traditional dishes to familiar comfort food. Entertainment is solid, with Japanese and international choices, and the sleep setup includes plush bedding and soft pajamas that actually make rest possible.

What’s nice about ANA Mileage Club is how it plugs into Star Alliance, giving you tons of redemption options and ways to earn miles on partners like United. You get two free checked bags up to 70 lbs each, which is generous for international travel. The mobile app is straightforward for managing bookings and choosing seats, and the program works particularly well for award travel within Asia if you want to explore multiple destinations.

Whether you land in Narita or Haneda, ANA keeps things running smoothly. Haneda is better for quick access to downtown Tokyo, while both airports offer quiet ANA lounges with good food and relaxing spaces. Their domestic flight network is strong too, which is perfect if you’re hopping to Osaka, Sapporo, or other cities around Japan

• Read next: Cheap Destinations from NYC
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Tokyo

3. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), Newark (EWR)
• 💺 Business Class: Polaris with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Polaris lounges, premium bedding, chef-designed meals, extensive US network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking with MileagePlus miles, look into the Excursionist Perk. It lets you add a free one-way flight within Asia, which is great if you’re planning to explore more than just Tokyo.

United‘s Polaris business class makes the trans-Pacific journey to Japan surprisingly comfortable, especially if you’re starting from the West Coast. The lie-flat seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access, and while they’re not as fancy as some international carriers, they get the job done well. The seats convert into proper beds, and United has really stepped up their bedding game with Saks Fifth Avenue linens that actually help you sleep during those long overnight flights.

The Polaris service focuses on making American travelers feel comfortable while adding some nice premium touches. The dining program features meals designed by well-known chefs, though it leans more toward familiar international cuisine than authentic Japanese flavors. The entertainment system has a solid selection of movies and TV shows, plus decent WiFi for staying connected.

MileagePlus offers excellent value through Star Alliance partnerships, and you can earn miles on ANA flights within Japan for additional redemption opportunities. Two free bags up to 70 lbs each come with your business class ticket, and the United mobile app works well for managing everything from check-in to seat changes. 

One of United’s biggest strengths is how easy it is to connect from almost anywhere in the US. San Francisco and Los Angeles offer the best nonstop options to Japan, but hubs like Chicago and Newark also provide strong coverage. The Polaris lounges in major airports are a big upgrade from typical airline lounges, with quiet areas, better food, and showers that help reset before or after a long flight.

• Read next: Cheapest Airports in Japan

4. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Business Class: Club Suite with sliding doors and lie-flat seats
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Club Suite privacy, afternoon tea service, Concorde Room access (First), extensive European connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use British Airways’ multi-city booking tool to add a stop in London or another European city on your way to Japan. It’s a smart way to see more places without paying for separate tickets.

Flying to Japan via London with British Airways adds a nice European flair to your Pacific journey. The new Club Suite features actual sliding doors and lie-flat beds in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving you direct aisle access proper privacy for the long haul to Tokyo. While it requires a connection in London, this can actually be a nice break to stretch your legs and experience BA’s premium airport facilities at Heathrow.

The onboard experience brings that distinctly British approach to luxury travel. You’ll get proper afternoon tea service along with meals that blend British and international cuisine, plus a decent wine selection featuring both European and global options. The entertainment system offers plenty of British content alongside international choices, and the crew provides that polished British service style that feels both professional and personable.

Executive Club‘s Avios program offers some interesting redemption opportunities, especially if you want to explore Europe before or after Japan. You get two free bags up to 70 lbs each, and the BA app handles bookings and seat selection reasonably well. The program works well with other Oneworld partners, including Japan Airlines, which can be useful for domestic Japan travel.

London Heathrow is one of the best hubs for US connections, with multiple daily departures from cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The BA lounges at Heathrow are comfortable and well-stocked, with the Concorde Room standing out if you’re flying First. For business class travelers, the Galleries and Club lounges offer great food, showers, and space to relax. If you want to add a few days in Europe before heading to Japan, this route makes it easy.

5. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX)
• 💺 Business Class: Flagship Business with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage (Oneworld)
• ☕ Perks: Flagship Lounges, premium dining partnerships, extensive domestic network, Oneworld benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use your Flagship Business ticket to access American’s top-tier airport lounges before your flight, and if you’re connecting through Dallas or LA, aim for longer layovers to enjoy full meals, showers, and workspace comforts.

American Airlines‘ Flagship Business offers a solid premium experience for getting to Japan, particularly from their Los Angeles hub. The lie-flat seats provide direct aisle access in a comfortable configuration, and while the hard product isn’t the fanciest, it’s reliable and functional for the long Pacific crossing. The seats can convert to flat beds with decent bedding, making overnight flights more manageable for arriving refreshed in Tokyo.

Onboard meals feature quality ingredients with a focus on familiar flavors rather than experimental cuisine, and the wine selection includes both domestic and international options. The entertainment system offers plenty of content choices, plus WiFi that actually works for staying connected during the flight. The crew provides efficient, friendly service that gets the job done without unnecessary fuss.

AAdvantage shines through its Oneworld partnership, especially the relationship with JAL for earning and redeeming miles. Two free checked bags up to 70 lbs each come standard with business class, and the AA app is user-friendly for managing reservations and selecting seats. The program offers good redemption values, particularly for domestic US travel and Oneworld partner flights within Asia.

American’s strength is its domestic reach. You can start your trip from just about anywhere in the US and connect through hubs like LAX or Dallas. The airline’s Flagship Lounges are worth spending time in, especially if you want a proper meal and quiet before a long flight. The whole experience gets you to Japan for cheap with minimal stress and solid value.

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6. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Vancouver (YVR), Toronto (YYZ)
• 💺 Business Class: Signature Class with lie-flat pods and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Canadian hospitality, Vancouver’s convenient Pacific location, premium Canadian wines, Aurora service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book from Vancouver to enjoy one of the shortest flight times to Japan. If you’re Canadian, you’ll also benefit from visa-free entry for short stays.

Air Canada might not be the obvious choice for US travelers heading to Japan, but hear us out on this one. If you can get yourself to Vancouver (which is super easy from Seattle, Portland, or other West Coast cities), you’re looking at one of the shortest flight times to Tokyo from anywhere in North America at just 9.5 hours. Plus, Air Canada’s Signature Class pods offer lie-flat beds with direct aisle access maximizes privacy and comfort for the Pacific crossing, making that shorter journey even more enjoyable.

The vibe onboard is relaxed in that very Canadian way. The crew is friendly without trying too hard, and the service feels natural. Meals highlight Canadian ingredients, and the wine list includes local bottles you won’t find on most airlines. The entertainment system even has a good mix of international and Canadian content, some of it surprisingly binge-worthy.

For US travelers, Aeroplan can actually work out pretty well since it’s part of Star Alliance and offers decent redemption rates. You still get the standard two bags up to 70 lbs each, and the Air Canada mobile app is straightforward for managing everything. 

Vancouver International Airport is genuinely pleasant, with mountain views during takeoff and way less chaos than major US hubs. The Maple Leaf Lounges are comfortable with good food and quiet spaces to chill before your flight. 

7. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
• 💺 Business Class: Reverse herringbone seats with direct aisle access and maximum privacy
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asia Miles (Oneworld)
• ☕ Perks: The Pier lounges, award-winning wine program, excellent connectivity across Asia, premium dining
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Connect through Hong Kong for easy access to other Asian destinations, and book the reverse herringbone configuration for unbeatable privacy.

Cathay Pacific offers one of the smartest ways for US travelers to reach Japan, especially if you want to explore more of Asia during your trip. The reverse herringbone business class setup is pure genius because every seat faces the window and gets direct aisle access, creating this cocoon-like privacy that’s perfect for the long haul from cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco. Plus, Hong Kong’s strategic location makes it an ideal stopover point for continuing to other Asian destinations.

Flying Cathay feels like discovering that understated luxury that doesn’t need to show off. The crew provides thoughtful service without hovering, and the meals are consistently high quality. You’ll find both Asian-inspired dishes and familiar options, paired with an award-winning wine list. Entertainment options cover a wide range of tastes, and everything about the cabin is designed to help you relax and settle in.

Asia Miles makes a lot of sense for US travelers, especially with easy redemption across Oneworld partners. You’ll get two checked bags at 70 lbs each, and the Cathay app is reliable for seat selection and updates. For those collecting points, this route offers solid value, especially if you mix in a flight with Japan Airlines or book a stopover in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong International Airport is known for its efficiency and design. The Pier Business Lounge is a favorite among frequent flyers, offering à la carte dining, showers, and quiet areas with views of the runway. 

• Read next: Best Airlines for Business Class
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Hong Kong

8. 🇰🇷 Korean Air

• 🏠 Hub: Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN)
• 💺 Business Class: Prestige Class with lie-flat seats and 2-2-2 configuration
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SKYPASS (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: Korean hospitality, excellent connectivity to Japan, premium Korean cuisine, efficient Seoul hub
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Seoul as a stopover to explore South Korea before heading to Japan, and try their bibimbap service which is surprisingly authentic

Korean Air offers a smooth and comfortable way to get to Japan, especially if you’re open to making Seoul part of the trip. The airline’s Prestige Class comes with lie-flat seats arranged in pairs, which makes them great for couples or friends traveling together. Everyone here gets decent space and comfort, though not every seat has direct aisle access. 

One of the best things about flying with Korean Air is the service. The crew brings a calm, friendly vibe that feels authentic, and the meals are a standout. Their inflight bibimbap is simple but tasty, and they also offer Korean snacks, teas, and even soju if you’re feeling adventurous. The entertainment system has a good mix of Korean dramas, international films, and relaxing playlists to help pass the time.

SKYPASS gives you some flexibility, especially if you’re earning points with Delta or other SkyTeam airlines. Business class gets you two free checked bags up to 70 pounds each, and the mobile app handles seat selection and updates pretty easily. The program is a good fit for travelers who want to explore more of Asia while earning usable miles for future trips.

Incheon Airport makes the layover feel less like a hassle and more like an extension of your trip. The Korean Air lounges are spacious, the food is solid, and the airport itself is clean and easy to navigate. If you’ve got the time, even a short stop in Seoul lets you dive into the local food scene or check out cultural sites before heading off to Japan.

9. 🇺🇸 Delta Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX), Minneapolis (MSP), Detroit (DTW)
• 💺 Business Class: Delta One with lie-flat suites and sliding doors
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: Delta One lounges, farm-to-table dining, Westin Heavenly bedding, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Try booking a one-way to Japan with Delta and returning on a SkyTeam partner like Korean Air to compare styles and take advantage of better award availability on the way back.

Delta has quietly built one of the better US business class products for reaching Japan, and their operational reliability makes them a smart choice for important trips. Delta One suites feature lie-flat beds with sliding doors on their newer aircraft, creating proper privacy for the long Pacific crossing. The West Coast hubs keep your journey streamlined, and if you need flexibility, Delta’s partnership with Korean Air opens up alternate routes through Seoul.

Onboard, Delta’s upgraded business class lives up to the promise. Meals are part of their farm-to-table program with ingredients that actually taste fresh in the air, and the Westin bedding is comfortable enough to help you get real rest. The entertainment selection includes all the big hits plus some international gems, and the crew tends to strike that nice balance between friendly and professional.

SkyMiles might not be perfect, but it’s gotten better for international flyers, especially if you’re combining Delta segments with SkyTeam partners. You’ll get two free checked bags, and the Delta app is about as smooth as it gets for managing your flights and seat choices. If you’re already flying Delta domestically, it makes sense to stick with them for international trips too.

Seattle-Tacoma International is one of Delta’s stronger hubs, with a user-friendly layout and short taxi times. Plus, the Sky Club lounges here are well-stocked with snacks, local drinks, and quiet areas to recharge before takeoff. 

10. 🇹🇼 EVA Air

• 🏠 Hub: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
• 💺 Business Class: Royal Laurel Class with lie-flat seats and 1-2-1 configuration
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Infinity MileageLands (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Excellent Taiwanese hospitality, Hello Kitty themed flights, quality lounges, efficient Taipei connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Pre-order your inflight meal online to access exclusive dishes not available on the standard menu.

EVA Air is one of those airlines that surprises people, in the best way. Flying from the US to Japan through Taipei is often more pleasant than flying direct, especially when you’re relaxing in Royal Laurel Class. The seats lie completely flat, every passenger gets aisle access, and the cabin feels sleek and peaceful, even on long-haul flights from places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York.

What really stands out is the service. Taiwanese hospitality is thoughtful and warm without being overbearing, and the crew has a way of making things feel calm and easy. Meals include a mix of Taiwanese dishes and international favorites, and everything is well-prepared. If you’re lucky (or book specifically), you might end up on one of their Hello Kitty themed flights, which are surprisingly charming for adults and kids alike.

Infinity MileageLands might not be as well-known as other frequent flyer programs, but it plays nicely with Star Alliance partners, making it a solid option if you’re connecting with United or Air Canada. Business class gets you two checked bags up to 70 lbs, and their staff is consistently helpful if you need support with your booking or flight changes.

Taipei’s airport is one of the most efficient in Asia, and EVA’s lounges are quiet, well-designed, and stocked with quality Taiwanese dishes. Connecting through Taipei often means shorter flight times to cities like Tokyo or Osaka, with less hassle than bigger, busier hubs.

11. 🇰🇷 Asiana Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN)
• 💺 Business Class: Business Smartium with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asiana Club (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Korean hospitality, premium Korean cuisine, Seoul stopover options, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look out for seasonal fare sales (especially in spring and fall) when Asiana often drops business class prices and includes flexible stopover options in Seoul.

Asiana Airlines rounds out the Korean options for US travelers heading to Japan, often offering competitive pricing without sacrificing service quality. Business Smartium features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access in a configuration that balances privacy with accessibility. Seoul’s proximity to Japan makes this routing particularly efficient, with short connection times and frequent flights that give you flexibility in planning your schedule.

Service on board reflects the warm, understated charm of Korean hospitality. The cabin crew is professional yet genuinely welcoming, striking a balance that feels both personal and respectful. Korean dishes like bulgogi and bibimbap are standouts on the inflight menu, complemented by international options and a solid beverage list. The entertainment system includes plenty of Korean dramas and global films, giving you a cultural preview before you even land.

Asiana Club offers reasonable value through Star Alliance partnerships, particularly for earning miles on United and other US carriers. The baggage allowance includes two pieces up to 70 lbs each, and their website and app are functional for basic travel management.

Seoul Incheon Airport provides an excellent connection point with efficient operations and quality facilities. Meanwhile, Asiana’s lounges offer comfortable spaces with Korean food specialties and good amenities for relaxing between flights. The airline’s schedule typically works well for US travelers, and the Seoul-Tokyo route is short enough that you can easily explore both countries in a single trip without feeling rushed or over-scheduled.

Frequently Asked Questions About USA to Japan Business Class Flights

Get all your questions answered about business class flights to Japan from the USA in our comprehensive FAQ section.

Which airline has the best business class from the US to Japan?

Japan Airlines and ANA are highly regarded for their best business class fares to Japan. They offer luxurious amenities, excellent food, and superior service. Look for spacious seating that converts into fully flat beds, high-quality meal services, and additional perks like ample legroom and privacy partitions.

How to get the best deals on business class tickets?

To find the cheapest business class to Japan from the USA, book in advance and keep an eye on airline sales and promotions. Utilize frequent flyer programs and travel credit cards that offer mileage bonuses. Also, check if flexible travel dates could fetch lower rates. Airlines often offer better prices during off-peak times.

Is traveling business class worth it?

Yes, especially for long flights. Business class provides comfort that can significantly improve your travel experience. Enjoy superior meals, extra space, and access to airport lounges. This class often offers faster check-in and additional baggage allowance, making it ideal for those looking to travel with ease and style.

What are the benefits of flying business class?

Business class enhances your flying experience. Expect top-notch service, gourmet meals, and extra privacy. Seats usually fully recline, allowing better rest during flights. Additional perks include increased baggage limits, lounge access, and priority boarding.

How can I use miles to book a business class seat to Japan?

Use airline loyalty programs to book flights. Transfer credit card points to airline miles. Airlines like ANA and Japan Airlines offer good value for mile redemption. Always check both the miles required and any additional taxes or fees.

How does business class differ from first class?

Business class offers excellent service and comfort, slightly below first class. While both provide premium seating and meals, first class might offer more privacy and luxury, such as private suites. Business class is a cost-effective alternative with many similar benefits.

What is the best time to book business class flights to Japan?

To secure the best rates, book your business class tickets well in advance, ideally several months before your planned travel. Airfare tends to be lower during off-peak seasons such as late winter or early spring for Japan. Keep an eye out for airline sales and last-minute deals, which can also offer significant savings.

Final Thoughts on Business Class Flights to Japan from the US

Flying business class to Japan offers an unmatched travel experience. Enjoy luxurious seats that turn into beds, gourmet meals, and world-class service. You’ll arrive refreshed and ready to explore. From extra legroom to exclusive lounge access, the perks make the journey as memorable as the destination.

For the best experience, book early and watch for deals. Whether for business or pleasure, business class travel ensures your trip to Japan starts and ends on a high note. Ready to fly in style? Your adventure awaits.

• Looking to find business class deals to Japan for under $2,700 roundtrip? You’ll want to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for economy deals, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business class deals.