TL;DR
Qantas is boosting its Tokyo connections, offering double daily flights from Sydney to Tokyo-Haneda, increased flights from Melbourne and Brisbane, and convenient access to Japan Airlines' lounges. Travelers can enjoy the renowned Japanese ski season, hot springs, and sub-tropical islands. While flights from Melbourne and Brisbane will land at Narita instead of Haneda, the newly opened rooftop hot springs at Haneda Airport provide a relaxing retreat. Qantas is also expanding its international network, with additional flights to the United States, Hong Kong, and the reintroduction of the Sydney-Shanghai route, aiming to reach 100% pre-pandemic capacity by March 2024.
Qantas, the largest Australian airline, has exciting news for traveller’s planning a winter trip to Japan next season. If your heart is set on experiencing the world-famous japow of Hakuba or Niseko, Qantas is adding twice as many reasons to hop aboard their red-tailed roo. They are supercharging their Tokyo connections starting from November 26, with extra flights departing from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, all primed for take-off.
A Qantas A330 which is the most common aircraft used for flights to and from Tokyo. Credit: Qantas Airways Sydney will see double daily flights to Tokyo-Haneda, which is a significant increase from the current single daily service. This means more flexibility for travellers from Sydney to choose their preferred departure times. Melbourne, on the other hand, will experience a jump from four to seven flights per week, allowing more frequent options for those departing from this vibrant city. And for the Brisbane residents, Qantas is boosting their flights from thrice-weekly to daily, ensuring a seamless journey to Tokyo.The timing of this schedule overhaul is perfect for those hoping to indulge in the Japanese ski season, which truly ramps up from late December. Imagine gliding down the powdery slopes of Hakuba or Niseko, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains. But Japan offers much more than just skiing. After a thrilling day on the slopes, you can unwind in the country's famed hot springs, known as onsen, and let the warm, mineral-rich waters rejuvenate your body and soul. Additionally, there are little-known sub-tropical islands off the coast of Tokyo that are waiting to be explored, offering a unique blend of nature and culture.However, it's not all good news with the schedule changes. Qantas flights departing from both Melbourne and Brisbane will now return to touching down at the less-convenient Narita Airport instead of the more centrally located Haneda Airport. While this may add an additional 50 kilometres to the commute from the airport to downtown Tokyo, rest assured that Qantas has made arrangements to ensure a pleasant travel experience. Unfortunately, Qantas' Tokyo-Narita Lounge had to close its doors permanently in January 2022, but they have partnered with Japan Airlines, a fellow member of the Oneworld alliance, to provide access to their flagship Narita lounges. Business class passengers, as well as Gold and Platinum frequent flyers, can enjoy the amenities and comforts of Japan Airlines' lounges. Although there is no dedicated Qantas lounge in Haneda either, travellers can look forward to visiting Japan Airlines' first-class and Sakura business class lounges, offering a welcoming respite before their journey.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
