Qantas Doubles Japan Flights In Time For Northern Winter
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.
Despite this minor inconvenience, there is another benefit for Sydneysiders traveling to Haneda Airport. The newly opened rooftop hot springs at the Haneda Airport Garden hotel and shopping complex provide a unique opportunity to relax and unwind before or after a long flight. Imagine soaking in the warm waters, enjoying panoramic views of the airport and the city skyline. It's a perfect way to transition into the enchanting atmosphere of Japan.
The Japanese schedule boost is just one part of a larger expansion plan for Qantas' international network. In addition to the Tokyo flights, Qantas is adding more flights to the United States and Hong Kong, as well as reintroducing the Sydney-Shanghai route after a three-year hiatus. These developments are part of Qantas' commitment to rebuilding its international operations and reconnecting people across the globe. According to a statement from Qantas, these network changes will see the Group's international capacity grow to around 100% of pre-pandemic levels by March 2024. This expansion opens up even more possibilities for travellers to explore and discover the world.
So, if you've been dreaming of experiencing the winter wonderland of Japan, now is the perfect time to make those
Want to stay up to date with all the news we find interesting? Make sure you follow us on our socials where we post all the latest updates.
Related Articles
